Hello Rice Creek Families,
We had a great week last week and look forward to one ahead. We have been busy with so much great work of all kinds: engineering and building, visual art, botany, party planning, play writing, sculpting, history of humans, discovery of number patterns, categorizing the physical word, and so much more. I took some time last week to observe and rediscovered the importance of the variety and creativity of work available to the children. In our classrooms we intentionally design lessons and work options to foster learning based on the sensitive period of students in Lower Elementary. Characteristics of the second plane child include a sensitivity and gift for imagination and reasoning. As you may well know they want to know "why" and "how" about the world and everything in it. Their imagination and reasoning mind work in partnership, for when the child's questions are answered about the "why" or "how", their minds have the power to imagine the explanations and discoveries. Maria Montessori explains, "Touching for the younger child is what imaging is for the older one" (To Educate the Human Potential). So, take the time, when you can, to listen to all those questions, do some discovering together, and have fun!
These last weeks were filled with hard work and some fun too. We were treated to great stories from our Mystery Guests on Wednesday afternoons. We enjoyed stories from two elementary staff members, Jenny and Agymah, in the form of physics and music. Jenny shared a story through the language of physics, demonstrating chemical bonds and how physics reveals the beauty and wonder of the design of our universe. Agymah shared a story through music, and how we communicate not just in one voice, but in many, both orally and through rhythms and sound. It is through the varied stories of our community that children develop empathy, perspective, and innovation in thought. Some pictures and videos are attached for you to enjoy.
Reminders and Updates:
Winter Solstice Celebration:
The children are in the process of planning a Winter Solstice party. This is a party initiated, planned, and executed by students. There is no need to plan differently for this day. However, many children have signed up to help and may be volunteering in varied ways. You will hear from me about any specifics regarding this party, and if your child has volunteered to help.
Winter Gear and Policies:
It has been mild thus far...however, the cold is coming. Look to your GRS Student & Family Handbook for details on winter safety policies. You can find it here.
Nutritional Guidelines:
We aim to guide children in making healthy nutritional choices. This is why we give guidelines for providing a healthy snack and for leaving candy and sugary treats at home. In addition, we encourage children to drink water with their lunch, in an effort to keep them hydrated and energized for their afternoon here at school. We know that families have varied eating habits and traditions at home. We value this difference, and also ask our families to partner with us by saving sugary drinks and snacks for home.
Resource:
Ideas for packing a lunch with your child...
The importance of stories in Montessori classrooms...
Book list for teaching empathy and telling varied stories:
In Graditude,
Nadine McNiff
Video here:
