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Showing posts from August, 2021

3: All I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten

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The author, Robert Fulghum, in his famous essay said that all he ever really needed to know, he learned in Kindergarten. While I don’t completely agree with everything he wrote — since we gain more wisdom as we get older — he does make a good point. Many of the essential things that we need to know to be a good human being, we start learning in Kindergarten.   And this week, we did just that.   A big part of the IB program focuses on the traits — or those we call the attributes of the learner profiles — that we would like for our children to develop throughout their PYP years.  On Being Caring The story called The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt paved the way for our lesson on learning how to be caring. In the story, the different colors of the crayons wrote notes to their owner, Duncan. They each had a grievance to share, especially on how each of them is being used and treated.  After reading the story in class, one of the reflections that came out was the importance of

2: It's Our First Week in Kindergarten!

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  "I've always loved the first day of school. Firsts are best because they are beginnings." -Jenny Han It was a pleasure to get to know all the children in their first two days of Kindergarten 1 and 2. What stood out for me the most upon interacting with them are the varied characteristics and interests of each child, and their role in the synergy and dynamics of the class. One thing is for sure: the possibilities are endless with our Kindergarteners. I am excited to get to know each one of them deeper so that we can provide the best environment that will hone their full potential.  Our goal for the first week of school is to bridge friendships and foster camaraderie amongst the students, and of course, to get them comfortable in the school environment and the daily routines. The children had numerous opportunities to familiarize themselves with their classroom environment, and to choose toys and activities that that they would like to focus on. To help the children ease

1: Welcome to Kindergarten!

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  Welcome to Kindergarten, dear students and parents! To mark the start of our learning journey together, I'd like to share a poem with you that I discovered as I was preparing for this coming school year. I find the message to be powerful and meaningful for the students whom I will teach.  Don’t Hide Your Magic Don’t hide your magic; Please share your gift. Seeing you shine  gives the whole world a lift.  It’s okay for wizards To be quiet or shy, but hiding your magic is a crime and here’s why: The room needs to dazzle, it needs what you’ve got You mihgt think you’re nothing,  but really you’re not.  You’re more! You’re magic! It’s time to be seen. You’re more powerful than you know,  and more loved than you can dream. Remember your gift. You’re equipped, you’re prepared. And never forget: Magic is meant to be shared. -Brad Montague   This year, I hope the learning that will take place in and out of the classroom will be magical for the children -- something that will allow them t