Hello Families
Our Holiday Concert is this Monday at 6 p.m. in the gym. Please drop your children off in my room at 5:40 for a short rehearsal and proceed to the gym. Don't forget your child's Santa hat! The school will also be accepting canned/dry food donations for the Second Harvest before and after the concert.
A Richview public library book was placed in our classroom library bin -- it is Munsch's "Wait and See". If this is your book let me know and I'll place it in your child's backpack.
Thank you very much to all the parent volunteers this week - Griffin's mom, Koby's mom, David's mom, Lola's mom, Jamie's mom, Joshua's dad, Sacha's dad, and Adam's mom and dad. Thank you also to all the families who contributed items to our Outreach baskets, and thank you to Tatum and Griffin's moms for organizing this for our classroom and LKS.
Have a nice weekend, see you Monday!
Mrs. Tyndall
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Sunday, December 4
December 2010
Dear parents,
December is an exciting time of year as we celebrate and learn about different traditions and celebrations. It is wonderful to watch the excitement and wonder of this special season through the eyes of young children. We will be reading many stories and doing several activities related to this happy season.
This week your children finished their numbers booklet, phonics activity sheets, a writing/drawing activity based on the Frog and Toad play, and some holiday related crafts. They have also almost all completed their unit on animals and hibernation/what animals do in the winter, which was completed by re-creating the Eric Carle story “Brown Bear, Brown Bear”. The children did a wonderful job with this task and can read the book to you with the pictures. I have also included the words to the story so that they can read to you at home. Well done!
Our Kindergarten concert is Monday, December 13 at 6:00 p.m. I would like the children to wear a red Santa hat and a white shirt/top with dark coloured pants or skirt. The children are eagerly anticipating performing their special songs for their family. As a consideration to all the children participating, please plan to stay for the entire concert to celebrate each class’s performance. The concert should be less than one hour. It will be a special night!
The children had a wonderful time on our field trip to see the play “Frog and Toad”. Thank you very much to the parents who volunteered on this trip and who also volunteer in the classroom!
Upcoming Events:
LKS Clothing Sale: Tuesday Nov. 30-Friday Dec. 3 before and after school outside main office
Book Fair: Friday, December 10
The cold weather seems to be rapidly approaching, especially in the early morning. Please label your child’s boots, hats, scarves and gloves with his/her name or initials. Some of the children find it difficult to identify their belongings and I want to ensure that the children return home dressed warmly with all their clothing. When your child wears boots to school, please ensure they bring shoes. For safety reasons, the children must have something on their feet at all times. Please continue to have your child practice dressing and zipping up their coats independently.
Thank you for your continued support of your child’s learning.
Dear parents,
December is an exciting time of year as we celebrate and learn about different traditions and celebrations. It is wonderful to watch the excitement and wonder of this special season through the eyes of young children. We will be reading many stories and doing several activities related to this happy season.
This week your children finished their numbers booklet, phonics activity sheets, a writing/drawing activity based on the Frog and Toad play, and some holiday related crafts. They have also almost all completed their unit on animals and hibernation/what animals do in the winter, which was completed by re-creating the Eric Carle story “Brown Bear, Brown Bear”. The children did a wonderful job with this task and can read the book to you with the pictures. I have also included the words to the story so that they can read to you at home. Well done!
Our Kindergarten concert is Monday, December 13 at 6:00 p.m. I would like the children to wear a red Santa hat and a white shirt/top with dark coloured pants or skirt. The children are eagerly anticipating performing their special songs for their family. As a consideration to all the children participating, please plan to stay for the entire concert to celebrate each class’s performance. The concert should be less than one hour. It will be a special night!
The children had a wonderful time on our field trip to see the play “Frog and Toad”. Thank you very much to the parents who volunteered on this trip and who also volunteer in the classroom!
Upcoming Events:
LKS Clothing Sale: Tuesday Nov. 30-Friday Dec. 3 before and after school outside main office
Book Fair: Friday, December 10
The cold weather seems to be rapidly approaching, especially in the early morning. Please label your child’s boots, hats, scarves and gloves with his/her name or initials. Some of the children find it difficult to identify their belongings and I want to ensure that the children return home dressed warmly with all their clothing. When your child wears boots to school, please ensure they bring shoes. For safety reasons, the children must have something on their feet at all times. Please continue to have your child practice dressing and zipping up their coats independently.
Thank you for your continued support of your child’s learning.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Friday, November 26
Hello families
Thank you to all the parents who attended Friday's Sharing Assembly. The children sang "Little Poppy" about being a good friend and Matthew, Cole, Siri and Jamie received awards for this month's TDSB Character Trait which is Empathy. Good job!
We are continuing our work on phonics and are creating a book about animals (this month's theme) that the children can bring home and read.
Thank you to all the parents who came in for interviews. I enjoyed speaking with you about your children's progress and look forward to meeting you again second term. I am always available for informal meetings as well. I am very pleased with the children's progress and effort and with how much they have learned already. Keep up the good work!
On December 1st (morning class) and 2nd (afternoon class) we will be going to the Lorraine Kisma Theatre. Since no food is allowed on the school bus we will not be having snack so please ensure your child has had a good breakfast that morning.
A note was sent to all parents regarding Holiday Season donations to needy families in the Stonegate area of Etobicoke. Each class at LKS is participating in this drive and will help a needy family. I have a basket in my classroom for each class if you are able to contribute. Thank you so much to those families who have contributed already. Baskets will be collected by Parent Council on December 10th.
It's hard to believe but we are already starting Holiday activities! A reminder that the Kindergarten Holiday concert is December 13 at 6 p.m. Please ensure your children are wearing a white shirt and black pants/skirt and a Santa/Reindeer hat if possible. We will be singing three songs - Up on the Rooftop, Dreidel, and Jingle Bells, and the Morning and Afternoon Classes will be performing together.
Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
Thank you to all the parents who attended Friday's Sharing Assembly. The children sang "Little Poppy" about being a good friend and Matthew, Cole, Siri and Jamie received awards for this month's TDSB Character Trait which is Empathy. Good job!
We are continuing our work on phonics and are creating a book about animals (this month's theme) that the children can bring home and read.
Thank you to all the parents who came in for interviews. I enjoyed speaking with you about your children's progress and look forward to meeting you again second term. I am always available for informal meetings as well. I am very pleased with the children's progress and effort and with how much they have learned already. Keep up the good work!
On December 1st (morning class) and 2nd (afternoon class) we will be going to the Lorraine Kisma Theatre. Since no food is allowed on the school bus we will not be having snack so please ensure your child has had a good breakfast that morning.
A note was sent to all parents regarding Holiday Season donations to needy families in the Stonegate area of Etobicoke. Each class at LKS is participating in this drive and will help a needy family. I have a basket in my classroom for each class if you are able to contribute. Thank you so much to those families who have contributed already. Baskets will be collected by Parent Council on December 10th.
It's hard to believe but we are already starting Holiday activities! A reminder that the Kindergarten Holiday concert is December 13 at 6 p.m. Please ensure your children are wearing a white shirt and black pants/skirt and a Santa/Reindeer hat if possible. We will be singing three songs - Up on the Rooftop, Dreidel, and Jingle Bells, and the Morning and Afternoon Classes will be performing together.
Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
Dear Parents
This week we continued with our Phonics work and we have finished/reviewed the sounds S,A,T,I,P, and N. The program we use is entitled Jolly Phonics.
The children attended the Remembrance Day Ceremony and I was very impressed with their respectful, attentive behaviour during this important assembly. Thank you especially to William Abernethy for placing our poppy on the school's wreath. We also practiced our song "Little Poppy".
Report Cards (SK students this term) will be going home on Monday. In today's white TDSB bag you received a pink letter with your interview date and time on it. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss your child's progress. Your children are more than welcome to attend the meeting.
Snuggle books were not included in today's white TDSB bags -- I will send them home on Monday, for return by Friday.
A note from Mrs. McGee, our School Librarian: parent helpers are no longer necessary in the K classes. Thank you very much for your help during first term!
Computer Helpers are also no longer needed as per Mrs. McGee and Mrs. Bradshaw. Thank you as well to the parents who have volunteered during first term.
Our Holiday Concert will take place on December 13 at 6 p.m. (gym) and should last no more than 30-40 minutes for all Kindergarten classes. Both Morning and Afternoon classes will sing together. Please join us for this special evening.
We are working on Patterning (early math comprehension) with bingo dabbers and other items. Please encourage your children to wear patterned clothing to school so we can discuss their patterns. You can also point out patterns we see around us. We have discussed the following types of patterns:
ABABABABABAB
ABBABBABBABB
AABAABAABAAB
ABCABCABCABC
ABCDABCDABCD
ABBCDABBCDABBCD
ABBCDABBCDABBCD etc
Thank you very much to our volunteer parents this week: Matthew's dad (Mystery Reader and Library), Siri's mom (Book Bags), David's mom (Library), William A's grandmother (Mystery Reader), Griffin's mom (Reading Club and Book Bags).
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Tyndall
This week we continued with our Phonics work and we have finished/reviewed the sounds S,A,T,I,P, and N. The program we use is entitled Jolly Phonics.
The children attended the Remembrance Day Ceremony and I was very impressed with their respectful, attentive behaviour during this important assembly. Thank you especially to William Abernethy for placing our poppy on the school's wreath. We also practiced our song "Little Poppy".
Report Cards (SK students this term) will be going home on Monday. In today's white TDSB bag you received a pink letter with your interview date and time on it. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss your child's progress. Your children are more than welcome to attend the meeting.
Snuggle books were not included in today's white TDSB bags -- I will send them home on Monday, for return by Friday.
A note from Mrs. McGee, our School Librarian: parent helpers are no longer necessary in the K classes. Thank you very much for your help during first term!
Computer Helpers are also no longer needed as per Mrs. McGee and Mrs. Bradshaw. Thank you as well to the parents who have volunteered during first term.
Our Holiday Concert will take place on December 13 at 6 p.m. (gym) and should last no more than 30-40 minutes for all Kindergarten classes. Both Morning and Afternoon classes will sing together. Please join us for this special evening.
We are working on Patterning (early math comprehension) with bingo dabbers and other items. Please encourage your children to wear patterned clothing to school so we can discuss their patterns. You can also point out patterns we see around us. We have discussed the following types of patterns:
ABABABABABAB
ABBABBABBABB
AABAABAABAAB
ABCABCABCABC
ABCDABCDABCD
ABBCDABBCDABBCD
ABBCDABBCDABBCD etc
Thank you very much to our volunteer parents this week: Matthew's dad (Mystery Reader and Library), Siri's mom (Book Bags), David's mom (Library), William A's grandmother (Mystery Reader), Griffin's mom (Reading Club and Book Bags).
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Tyndall
Friday, November 5, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
Dear families,
It has been another busy week in our Kindergarten classrooms! The afternoon class met with their Reading Buddies and completed a worksheet called "Peace is..." Mrs. Zappi and I were impressed with the children's efforts and thoughtfulness when completing this work.
Both classes are learning how to read and spell High Frequency Words from our Word Wall and how to sound out words. When your child makes a picture at home please encourage him/her to also write words about the picture. Who is in the picture? What are they doing? Where are they?
There are some items in our lost and found corner of the children's coat room:
a navy blue girl's sweater
black gloves
a green umbrella
a Star Wars scholastic book order book
a "Joe" boy's fleece jacket: grey with red trim
a Lambton Kingsway hoodie
a "Place" boy's jacket: Red fleece with navy trim
a boys "Deux par deux" pumpkin coloured fleece jacket
a girls Nike pink zip-up hoodie
Thanks so much to the parent volunteers this week. The children love to have guests in their classroom!
Today's white TDSB bags includes two Halloween books that your children have made. They have practiced reading these books and can read them to you at home! Also in the bag is a pink interview request form. Please complete this and return by MONDAY. Each child has a file that includes selected weekly work starting in September to track your child's progress. I look forward to sharing this with you and your child at interview time and discussing your child's progress.
Next week we will be continuing with our journals, the JKs will be receiving their Jolly Phonics folders, and we will be talking about, learning, and practicing Remembrance Day words.
Have a wonderful weekend!
It has been another busy week in our Kindergarten classrooms! The afternoon class met with their Reading Buddies and completed a worksheet called "Peace is..." Mrs. Zappi and I were impressed with the children's efforts and thoughtfulness when completing this work.
Both classes are learning how to read and spell High Frequency Words from our Word Wall and how to sound out words. When your child makes a picture at home please encourage him/her to also write words about the picture. Who is in the picture? What are they doing? Where are they?
There are some items in our lost and found corner of the children's coat room:
a navy blue girl's sweater
black gloves
a green umbrella
a Star Wars scholastic book order book
a "Joe" boy's fleece jacket: grey with red trim
a Lambton Kingsway hoodie
a "Place" boy's jacket: Red fleece with navy trim
a boys "Deux par deux" pumpkin coloured fleece jacket
a girls Nike pink zip-up hoodie
Thanks so much to the parent volunteers this week. The children love to have guests in their classroom!
Today's white TDSB bags includes two Halloween books that your children have made. They have practiced reading these books and can read them to you at home! Also in the bag is a pink interview request form. Please complete this and return by MONDAY. Each child has a file that includes selected weekly work starting in September to track your child's progress. I look forward to sharing this with you and your child at interview time and discussing your child's progress.
Next week we will be continuing with our journals, the JKs will be receiving their Jolly Phonics folders, and we will be talking about, learning, and practicing Remembrance Day words.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Friday, October 29
This was an exciting and fun week for our students since Hallowe'en is on Sunday. In the classroom, we integrated numeracy and literacy activities with the Hallowe'en theme ("counting pumpkins" booklet, "Hallowe'en word book", journal writing, songs and poems) as well as completing crafts requiring small motor skills (colouring, cutting, gluing, pasting, painting, modelling clay). The children had a fun time at our Hallowe'en Party and Parade! Thank you to those parents who provided extra snacks and treats for the children.
Thank you for sending in the forms for the Frog and Toad character trait play we will be attending in December, and thank you to all the parents who volunteered to attend this event as well.
I have distributed September and October's Scholastic orders. The Christmas orders will be placed next week and should arrive shortly.
This week's Snuggle Books were sent home in Friday's white TDSB bag, as well as a copy of our weekly songs and poems. I rotate a series of early readers until each child has read each book and then we start a new series. These early literacy books are an excellent way for your child to show you how s/he is learning to read (beginning sounds, end sounds, blending, high frequency words, eg.) and reading along with your child, pointing to the words, will also help him/her along their path to literacy.
Please note that although only SKs receive report cards in November, JK and SK parents are welcome to come in for interviews regarding their child's progress. I am scheduling two extra interview days (November 15, 17) as well as LKS's scheduled interview days of November 18 and 19 in order to assist in accommodating all parents, and I will send a form home shortly regarding signing up for dates and times.
I have scheduled the SNACK and MYSTERY BAG calendars until February and have emailed them to parents and have also sent a copy home in this week's TDSB bag. Please remember that all snacks need to be certified "nut free".
Thank you and I hope you and your children have a fun and safe Hallowe'en weekend!
Mrs. Tyndall
Thank you for sending in the forms for the Frog and Toad character trait play we will be attending in December, and thank you to all the parents who volunteered to attend this event as well.
I have distributed September and October's Scholastic orders. The Christmas orders will be placed next week and should arrive shortly.
This week's Snuggle Books were sent home in Friday's white TDSB bag, as well as a copy of our weekly songs and poems. I rotate a series of early readers until each child has read each book and then we start a new series. These early literacy books are an excellent way for your child to show you how s/he is learning to read (beginning sounds, end sounds, blending, high frequency words, eg.) and reading along with your child, pointing to the words, will also help him/her along their path to literacy.
Please note that although only SKs receive report cards in November, JK and SK parents are welcome to come in for interviews regarding their child's progress. I am scheduling two extra interview days (November 15, 17) as well as LKS's scheduled interview days of November 18 and 19 in order to assist in accommodating all parents, and I will send a form home shortly regarding signing up for dates and times.
I have scheduled the SNACK and MYSTERY BAG calendars until February and have emailed them to parents and have also sent a copy home in this week's TDSB bag. Please remember that all snacks need to be certified "nut free".
Thank you and I hope you and your children have a fun and safe Hallowe'en weekend!
Mrs. Tyndall
Friday, October 22, 2010
Friday, October 22
Hello Parents,
Today in your child's TDSB bag you received an information sheet and permission form for the children to see the play "Frog and Toad" on December 1st (a.m. class) and December 2nd (p.m. class) at the Lorraine Kimsa Theatre. Please note that the permission forms and money are due back by Thursday, October 28. Four parent volunteers are required for this field trip (volunteers are free). Please indicate on your child's form if you are available to volunteer. Thank you!
Please remember to return your child's Snuggle Books each Friday so that s/he can receive a new one. Snuggle Books are a wonderful opportunity for you to read to your child or for your child to read to you. If your child is a beginning reader, you can help by pointing to the words as you read them and by talking about the books together.
We will be having a Hallowe'en Party on Friday, October 29. If you would like to contribute juice boxes, treats etc. please let your parent rep know and kindly drop them off before class starts. Thank you!
This week the Afternoon Class met their Reading Buddies from Mrs. Zappi's Grade Three Class. We look forward to a wonderful year working together to improve your child's reading abilities and to meet new friends! The Morning Class will meet their Reading Buddies in Mrs. Shklar's class in January.
Thank you to those parents who attended the Sharing assembly today. The children presented two poems -- Funny Turkey and Five Little Turkeys. Copies of these poems (and all the songs/poems we do) go home in the white TDSB bags.
Thank you very much to the parents who volunteered this week as Mystery Reader and Reading Club helper.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Mrs. Tyndall
Today in your child's TDSB bag you received an information sheet and permission form for the children to see the play "Frog and Toad" on December 1st (a.m. class) and December 2nd (p.m. class) at the Lorraine Kimsa Theatre. Please note that the permission forms and money are due back by Thursday, October 28. Four parent volunteers are required for this field trip (volunteers are free). Please indicate on your child's form if you are available to volunteer. Thank you!
Please remember to return your child's Snuggle Books each Friday so that s/he can receive a new one. Snuggle Books are a wonderful opportunity for you to read to your child or for your child to read to you. If your child is a beginning reader, you can help by pointing to the words as you read them and by talking about the books together.
We will be having a Hallowe'en Party on Friday, October 29. If you would like to contribute juice boxes, treats etc. please let your parent rep know and kindly drop them off before class starts. Thank you!
This week the Afternoon Class met their Reading Buddies from Mrs. Zappi's Grade Three Class. We look forward to a wonderful year working together to improve your child's reading abilities and to meet new friends! The Morning Class will meet their Reading Buddies in Mrs. Shklar's class in January.
Thank you to those parents who attended the Sharing assembly today. The children presented two poems -- Funny Turkey and Five Little Turkeys. Copies of these poems (and all the songs/poems we do) go home in the white TDSB bags.
Thank you very much to the parents who volunteered this week as Mystery Reader and Reading Club helper.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Mrs. Tyndall
Friday, October 15, 2010
Friday, October 15
Hello Parents
We have had a productive week this week in JK/SK, learning/reviewing our numbers and Hallowe'en vocabulary. The childrens' Journals are really improving, with good line spacing and word spacing. When your children are writing at home, please encourage them to use a "finger space" between each word. I am impressed with the children's learning of phonetic/letter sounds! When reading with your child, sounding out words slowly and pointing to each word will help them understand phonetic groupings.
Hallowe'en is only two weeks away and we are/will be doing several numeracy and literacy activities based on this fun theme. Look for patterns and number work in your child's white bag this Friday.
A special thank you to Griffin's family for donating the big box that the afternoon class turned into a "Haunted House." The morning class will turn another big box into "Santa's Chimney" in December.
Thank you very much to my parent volunteers this week; the children love to have their parents in the classroom! Thank you to parents who also help with the white TDSB bags and Snuggle Books. It is a big job and much appreciated!
Please remember to return your Snuggle Books by Friday so that new books can be issued.
Here are the lyrics to the "Brush Your Teeth Song" (Raffi) that we performed for the first Sharing Assembly:
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to one
and you want to have a little fun,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to two
and you want to find something to do,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to three
and you want to hum a tweedle dee dee,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to four
and you think you hear a knock at the door,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to five
and you just can't wait to come alive,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
For the October 22nd Sharing Assembly we are preparing two Thanksgiving-themed poems: "The Turkey" and "Five Little Turkeys."
Have a wonderful weekend!
We have had a productive week this week in JK/SK, learning/reviewing our numbers and Hallowe'en vocabulary. The childrens' Journals are really improving, with good line spacing and word spacing. When your children are writing at home, please encourage them to use a "finger space" between each word. I am impressed with the children's learning of phonetic/letter sounds! When reading with your child, sounding out words slowly and pointing to each word will help them understand phonetic groupings.
Hallowe'en is only two weeks away and we are/will be doing several numeracy and literacy activities based on this fun theme. Look for patterns and number work in your child's white bag this Friday.
A special thank you to Griffin's family for donating the big box that the afternoon class turned into a "Haunted House." The morning class will turn another big box into "Santa's Chimney" in December.
Thank you very much to my parent volunteers this week; the children love to have their parents in the classroom! Thank you to parents who also help with the white TDSB bags and Snuggle Books. It is a big job and much appreciated!
Please remember to return your Snuggle Books by Friday so that new books can be issued.
Here are the lyrics to the "Brush Your Teeth Song" (Raffi) that we performed for the first Sharing Assembly:
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to one
and you want to have a little fun,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to two
and you want to find something to do,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to three
and you want to hum a tweedle dee dee,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to four
and you think you hear a knock at the door,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
If you get up in the morning at a quarter to five
and you just can't wait to come alive,
You brush your teeth ch ch ch ch, ch ch ch ch....
For the October 22nd Sharing Assembly we are preparing two Thanksgiving-themed poems: "The Turkey" and "Five Little Turkeys."
Have a wonderful weekend!
Monday, October 11, 2010
Friday, October 8
Hello Parents and Happy Thanksgiving
This week we worked on our numbers booklets, wrote journal entries about Terry Fox and Thanksgiving, created Thanksgiving and Autumn crafts, and practiced writing our high frequency words. The SKs are doing very well with this skill and the JKs are working on upper and lower case letter recognition as well as letter sounds.
Snuggle Books are going home each week now - these are levelled readers that you and your child read together. We rotate through several series of these readers the year. Please return the readers in the white TDSB bags by each Friday so your child can receive a new one.
The children are taking home LKS Library books now - just a reminder that both the books and the special green bags with your child's name and a SKU number are to be returned at the same time. I have labelled bins for both the morning and afternoon classes at the classroom entrance - a white bin for the white bags, bins for returned Snuggle Books and Library books/bags, as well as bin for work/letters that go home each week. Please assist your child in remembering to remove the white TDSB and Library bags from their backpacks each morning. This also assists my parent volunteers who help me sort and fill the white bags on Fridays.
Thank you very much Mrs. Lawler (Griffin's mom) for bringing in a big box! The afternoon class painted it black today and we are making a "Haunted" Hallowe'en House!
Please bring in one large leaf this week; we will be making a plaster cast/"fossil" of the leaf that the children will paint when it is dry.
Thank you as always and I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!
This week we worked on our numbers booklets, wrote journal entries about Terry Fox and Thanksgiving, created Thanksgiving and Autumn crafts, and practiced writing our high frequency words. The SKs are doing very well with this skill and the JKs are working on upper and lower case letter recognition as well as letter sounds.
Snuggle Books are going home each week now - these are levelled readers that you and your child read together. We rotate through several series of these readers the year. Please return the readers in the white TDSB bags by each Friday so your child can receive a new one.
The children are taking home LKS Library books now - just a reminder that both the books and the special green bags with your child's name and a SKU number are to be returned at the same time. I have labelled bins for both the morning and afternoon classes at the classroom entrance - a white bin for the white bags, bins for returned Snuggle Books and Library books/bags, as well as bin for work/letters that go home each week. Please assist your child in remembering to remove the white TDSB and Library bags from their backpacks each morning. This also assists my parent volunteers who help me sort and fill the white bags on Fridays.
Thank you very much Mrs. Lawler (Griffin's mom) for bringing in a big box! The afternoon class painted it black today and we are making a "Haunted" Hallowe'en House!
Please bring in one large leaf this week; we will be making a plaster cast/"fossil" of the leaf that the children will paint when it is dry.
Thank you as always and I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!
Friday, October 1, 2010
TDSB Bags
Hello everyone,
Thank you to all the parents who volunteered for Mystery Reader, Book Bags/Snuggle Books, Library, Computer, and Reading Club.
thank you also for attending our first Sharing Assembly! The children presented a "Safety Song" about stop lights, and the "Brush Your Teeth" song.
A reminder that the white TDSB bags go home each Friday and include some of your child's classwork (much of it is filed in your child's file folder to track progress and will be sent home at report card time), artwork, letters from the office, etc. Please be sure to return the bags by Monday. Thank you.
The children received new Green Library Bags with their name and an individual Bar Code on it. Please be sure to return this bag along with your child's library book on or before library day. They will need their green bag in order to take a new book out.
This week we learned and wrote in our journals about Autumn, Terry Fox, and school words. We also worked on our Numbers Booklets and upper and lower case letter writing practice. The Afternoon Class is learning "Oh Canada" as well (the Morning Class sings it each morning with the rest of the school).
The work that went home in today's white TDSB bags was done entirely by your children and they received no assistance cutting or pasting their letters and shapes. Good for them! Their small motor skills are really coming along and I was happy to see all the children able to manage scissors so well. I am also happy to see that many of the JKs can write their name and that they are learning correct pencil grip as well. Keep up the good work!
Next week we will finish out number booklets and work on some Thanksgiving crafts. The JKs will start the phonic sound "S" and the SKs will learn/review reading and writing of high frequency words (such as AND, THE, AT, I, etc.).
Next week Friday your child will also receive his/her first Snuggle Book. This is a book in a series of books that your child will receive each Friday and will read to you or read with you at home. Please return the book by the following Friday in the designated bin at the classroom entrance. Thank you!
I am also arranging with Mrs. Zappi's class and Mrs. Shklar's class to do weekly Reading Buddies again this year. I will update you once we have our Reading Buddies list.
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Tyndall
Thank you to all the parents who volunteered for Mystery Reader, Book Bags/Snuggle Books, Library, Computer, and Reading Club.
thank you also for attending our first Sharing Assembly! The children presented a "Safety Song" about stop lights, and the "Brush Your Teeth" song.
A reminder that the white TDSB bags go home each Friday and include some of your child's classwork (much of it is filed in your child's file folder to track progress and will be sent home at report card time), artwork, letters from the office, etc. Please be sure to return the bags by Monday. Thank you.
The children received new Green Library Bags with their name and an individual Bar Code on it. Please be sure to return this bag along with your child's library book on or before library day. They will need their green bag in order to take a new book out.
This week we learned and wrote in our journals about Autumn, Terry Fox, and school words. We also worked on our Numbers Booklets and upper and lower case letter writing practice. The Afternoon Class is learning "Oh Canada" as well (the Morning Class sings it each morning with the rest of the school).
The work that went home in today's white TDSB bags was done entirely by your children and they received no assistance cutting or pasting their letters and shapes. Good for them! Their small motor skills are really coming along and I was happy to see all the children able to manage scissors so well. I am also happy to see that many of the JKs can write their name and that they are learning correct pencil grip as well. Keep up the good work!
Next week we will finish out number booklets and work on some Thanksgiving crafts. The JKs will start the phonic sound "S" and the SKs will learn/review reading and writing of high frequency words (such as AND, THE, AT, I, etc.).
Next week Friday your child will also receive his/her first Snuggle Book. This is a book in a series of books that your child will receive each Friday and will read to you or read with you at home. Please return the book by the following Friday in the designated bin at the classroom entrance. Thank you!
I am also arranging with Mrs. Zappi's class and Mrs. Shklar's class to do weekly Reading Buddies again this year. I will update you once we have our Reading Buddies list.
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Tyndall
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Sharing Assembly tomorrow!
Hello Parents
Just a reminder that the first Sharing Assembly will take place tomorrow in the Lunch Room at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. respectively. we hope to see you then!
Mrs. Tyndall
Just a reminder that the first Sharing Assembly will take place tomorrow in the Lunch Room at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. respectively. we hope to see you then!
Mrs. Tyndall
Friday, September 17, 2010
Curriculum Night, Volunteers, Upcoming Events
Hello parents,
Our first two weeks have gone wonderfully and the children are settling in very well with classroom routines. Great job everyone! We are learning a poem and a song for the Sharing Assembly (Sept. 29) and are learning/reviewing the phonic sound "S", words that have "s" in them and school words. The JKs and SKs have started journal writing as well!
Photo Day is Tuesday, Sept. 21. Bring your smiles!
Curriculum Night is Thursday, Sept. 23 at 5:30 p.m. in the Gym.
Our first Sharing Assembly is Wednesday, Sept. 29 at 9 a.m. (morning class) and 12:40 (afternoon class) in the Lunchroom.
Our Grade Parents (thank you very much Vicky Giancos and Anne Rankin - morning class - and Melissa Busch and Kim Delonghi - afternoon class) are busy getting the Parent Volunteer Calendars ready for signing up on Curriculum Night and they are also preparing the Contact List for arranging for playdates and general/school email correspondance.
Please bring your calendars on Curriculum Night for signing up for Mystery Reader (Thursdays), Reading Club (Tuesdays), Snuggle Book/TDSB Bags (Fridays), Library Helper, and Computer Lab Helper. We will post a Parent Volunteer Schedule after Curriculum Night.
Morning Reading Club
Tuesdays 10:45-11:15 a.m.
Afternoon Reading Club
Tuesdays 2:30-3:00 p.m.
Reading Club Volunteers assist the children one-on-one in reading activities provided by the teacher. Reading Club is at the table in the hall outside the classroom.
Morning Mystery Reader
Thursdays 11:00-11:15
Afternoon Mystery Reader
Thursdays 2:45-3:00 p.m.
Mystery Readers are parent volunteers who bring a book of their choice from home and read it to the children and then talk about the book.
The morning class children have Library every Day 3 from 10:04-10:48, and Computer Lab every Day 4 from 9:10-9:54.
The afternoon class children have Library every Day 2 from 12:37-1:21, and Computer Lab every Day 5 from 1:21-2:05.
Library parent volunteers are needed until Christmas only. Computer Lab volunteers are welcome all year.
Please let me know if you have any questions - either at school or by email (betyndall@rogers.com)
Thank you, and have a wonderful weekend!
Our first two weeks have gone wonderfully and the children are settling in very well with classroom routines. Great job everyone! We are learning a poem and a song for the Sharing Assembly (Sept. 29) and are learning/reviewing the phonic sound "S", words that have "s" in them and school words. The JKs and SKs have started journal writing as well!
Photo Day is Tuesday, Sept. 21. Bring your smiles!
Curriculum Night is Thursday, Sept. 23 at 5:30 p.m. in the Gym.
Our first Sharing Assembly is Wednesday, Sept. 29 at 9 a.m. (morning class) and 12:40 (afternoon class) in the Lunchroom.
Our Grade Parents (thank you very much Vicky Giancos and Anne Rankin - morning class - and Melissa Busch and Kim Delonghi - afternoon class) are busy getting the Parent Volunteer Calendars ready for signing up on Curriculum Night and they are also preparing the Contact List for arranging for playdates and general/school email correspondance.
Please bring your calendars on Curriculum Night for signing up for Mystery Reader (Thursdays), Reading Club (Tuesdays), Snuggle Book/TDSB Bags (Fridays), Library Helper, and Computer Lab Helper. We will post a Parent Volunteer Schedule after Curriculum Night.
Morning Reading Club
Tuesdays 10:45-11:15 a.m.
Afternoon Reading Club
Tuesdays 2:30-3:00 p.m.
Reading Club Volunteers assist the children one-on-one in reading activities provided by the teacher. Reading Club is at the table in the hall outside the classroom.
Morning Mystery Reader
Thursdays 11:00-11:15
Afternoon Mystery Reader
Thursdays 2:45-3:00 p.m.
Mystery Readers are parent volunteers who bring a book of their choice from home and read it to the children and then talk about the book.
The morning class children have Library every Day 3 from 10:04-10:48, and Computer Lab every Day 4 from 9:10-9:54.
The afternoon class children have Library every Day 2 from 12:37-1:21, and Computer Lab every Day 5 from 1:21-2:05.
Library parent volunteers are needed until Christmas only. Computer Lab volunteers are welcome all year.
Please let me know if you have any questions - either at school or by email (betyndall@rogers.com)
Thank you, and have a wonderful weekend!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
recyclables needed please
Dear Parents
Please bring in paper egg cartons and empty toilet paper and paper towel tubes for classroom crafts.
Thank you!
Please bring in paper egg cartons and empty toilet paper and paper towel tubes for classroom crafts.
Thank you!
School Forms due by Friday please
Dear Parents,
Please ensure that you have completed and returned all the TDSB forms (medical, safe arrival/media/walking excursion, email address) by this Friday at the latest. You should send them to me in your child's white TDSB bag.
It is also very important that I receive everyone's email address by Friday as well. Even if you have indicated that you do not wish your child's contact information to be on a shared class list, I still require an email address for classroom communication/changes/updates.
Thank you!
Please ensure that you have completed and returned all the TDSB forms (medical, safe arrival/media/walking excursion, email address) by this Friday at the latest. You should send them to me in your child's white TDSB bag.
It is also very important that I receive everyone's email address by Friday as well. Even if you have indicated that you do not wish your child's contact information to be on a shared class list, I still require an email address for classroom communication/changes/updates.
Thank you!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
email addresses
Please be sure to include your EMAIL ADDRESS on the recent information for that went home; emails and my blog are main means of correspondance between myself and parents.
Thank you!
P.S. If you can remember to bring in paper towel and toilet paper TUBES they are very handy for crafts. Thank you!
Thank you!
P.S. If you can remember to bring in paper towel and toilet paper TUBES they are very handy for crafts. Thank you!
Forms
Please ensure that the medical, information and any other school forms are returned as soon as possible (ideally within 1-2 days).
Also, when you child enters the classroom, please assist me in teaching them to deposit their WHITE TDSB BAG, their SNUGGLE BOOK, and their LIBRARY BOOK in the appropriate separate labelled bins. The bins are clearly labelled for the morning and afternoon classes and are placed at the entrance to the classroom (in the snack area).
Thank you!
Also, when you child enters the classroom, please assist me in teaching them to deposit their WHITE TDSB BAG, their SNUGGLE BOOK, and their LIBRARY BOOK in the appropriate separate labelled bins. The bins are clearly labelled for the morning and afternoon classes and are placed at the entrance to the classroom (in the snack area).
Thank you!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
September 9, 2010
Dear Parents,
Thank you for attending our Open House this week and I was glad to meet you and your children. My colleagues and I have been busy preparing our classrooms for an exciting year of Kindergarten and I am looking forward to working with your children this year. My goal as an educator is to create a happy and inviting classroom where children will learn, create friendships, improve skills and reach their individual potentials. Each child is unique and I am dedicated to working with your child to reach their full potential. We will work hard together to create an enjoyable and productive learning environment.
Drop Off and Pick Up
Children should be at school by 8:45 a.m. (morning class)or 12:32 p.m. (afternoon class) at the latest. Dismissal is at 11:20 a.m. and 3:07 p.m. respectively. It is important that when the bell rings the children are in line alongside the school wall and ready to come in for entry. If your children come in a little earlier they will have time to greet their friends and settle in class before the final bell rings. All the children are adjusting wonderfully to the start of school and I appreciate your assistance in helping me establish daily routines such as saying good bye to parents and getting ready for circle, lining up inside and outside the classroom, bringing notes and forms and other items to and from school, and other basic routines. The children are off to a wonderful start. Much of September is focusing on learning classroom routines and the children are doing well with the excellent example of our Senior Kindergarten children. Keep up the great work!
Please be kind enough to keep strollers behind the fence and keep the exit door clear so that your children may exit with a clear view of their caretakers. Dismissal is at 11:20 a.m. (morning class) or 3:07 p.m. (afternoon class).
If your child will be going home with someone other than parents or regular caregivers (grandparents, nannies, eg.) please inform me in written form. If for any reason you are unable to pick your child up on time please contact the school office (416-394-7890).
Outdoor Play
Outdoor play is a vital component of the Kindergarten Program. Weather permitting we will play outside. Please ensure that your child is dressed appropriately. You can also make this a learning experience for your child by checking the weather report in the newspaper together. This routine will also help them when we discuss the calendar and weather at circle time.
Clothing and Personal Belongings
Please assist your child in learning how to manage their clothing and to dress themselves. Clothing that is easy to remove and put back on with larger style zippers and buttons will assist your child.
Forms
Please return the medical and information forms that are being sent home in your child's white TDSB bag this week. If your child has an allergy requiring an EPI-pen, please ensure that you provide both the office and myself with an EPI-pen.
Schedules
If you have not received a copy of September and October`s Snack and Mystery Bag schedules please see me for another copy. I will also attach a copy to an email once I have received all your email addresses. Your Child`s Snack Day is also his or her Special Day and Show and tell Day. I will coordinate you child`s birthday with his or her Snack and Special Day. Mystery Bag Day takes place every Friday; on Thursday a child will receive the Mystery Bag from me, and he or she places a mystery item in the bag to be presented the next day. Classmates takes turns using question words to guess what is in the bag.
Parent Volunteers
On Curriculum Night (September 23) parents are invited and welcome to sign up for various opportunities to volunteer in your child`s classroom; Mystery Reader, Book Bag Helper, Library Helper, Computer Lab Helper, and Reading Club. Parent help is always welcome and your children love to see you in their classroom!
Please visit my blog regularly for updates and I look forward to a wonderful year!
Thank you,
Beverley Tyndall
betyndall@rogers.com
Thank you for attending our Open House this week and I was glad to meet you and your children. My colleagues and I have been busy preparing our classrooms for an exciting year of Kindergarten and I am looking forward to working with your children this year. My goal as an educator is to create a happy and inviting classroom where children will learn, create friendships, improve skills and reach their individual potentials. Each child is unique and I am dedicated to working with your child to reach their full potential. We will work hard together to create an enjoyable and productive learning environment.
Drop Off and Pick Up
Children should be at school by 8:45 a.m. (morning class)or 12:32 p.m. (afternoon class) at the latest. Dismissal is at 11:20 a.m. and 3:07 p.m. respectively. It is important that when the bell rings the children are in line alongside the school wall and ready to come in for entry. If your children come in a little earlier they will have time to greet their friends and settle in class before the final bell rings. All the children are adjusting wonderfully to the start of school and I appreciate your assistance in helping me establish daily routines such as saying good bye to parents and getting ready for circle, lining up inside and outside the classroom, bringing notes and forms and other items to and from school, and other basic routines. The children are off to a wonderful start. Much of September is focusing on learning classroom routines and the children are doing well with the excellent example of our Senior Kindergarten children. Keep up the great work!
Please be kind enough to keep strollers behind the fence and keep the exit door clear so that your children may exit with a clear view of their caretakers. Dismissal is at 11:20 a.m. (morning class) or 3:07 p.m. (afternoon class).
If your child will be going home with someone other than parents or regular caregivers (grandparents, nannies, eg.) please inform me in written form. If for any reason you are unable to pick your child up on time please contact the school office (416-394-7890).
Outdoor Play
Outdoor play is a vital component of the Kindergarten Program. Weather permitting we will play outside. Please ensure that your child is dressed appropriately. You can also make this a learning experience for your child by checking the weather report in the newspaper together. This routine will also help them when we discuss the calendar and weather at circle time.
Clothing and Personal Belongings
Please assist your child in learning how to manage their clothing and to dress themselves. Clothing that is easy to remove and put back on with larger style zippers and buttons will assist your child.
Forms
Please return the medical and information forms that are being sent home in your child's white TDSB bag this week. If your child has an allergy requiring an EPI-pen, please ensure that you provide both the office and myself with an EPI-pen.
Schedules
If you have not received a copy of September and October`s Snack and Mystery Bag schedules please see me for another copy. I will also attach a copy to an email once I have received all your email addresses. Your Child`s Snack Day is also his or her Special Day and Show and tell Day. I will coordinate you child`s birthday with his or her Snack and Special Day. Mystery Bag Day takes place every Friday; on Thursday a child will receive the Mystery Bag from me, and he or she places a mystery item in the bag to be presented the next day. Classmates takes turns using question words to guess what is in the bag.
Parent Volunteers
On Curriculum Night (September 23) parents are invited and welcome to sign up for various opportunities to volunteer in your child`s classroom; Mystery Reader, Book Bag Helper, Library Helper, Computer Lab Helper, and Reading Club. Parent help is always welcome and your children love to see you in their classroom!
Please visit my blog regularly for updates and I look forward to a wonderful year!
Thank you,
Beverley Tyndall
betyndall@rogers.com
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Welcome to all new and returning students!
Dear parents,
I hope that everyone has had a restful summer! I am looking forward to meeting with you and your children next week and to a wonderful new school year. The first week is a transitional week for JK and SK students as they adjust to their classroom setting and to being in school for the morning/afternoon. Letters were sent home in June regarding your child's first week schedule and if you have further questions please contact the office; they have a copy of my schedule as well.
A reminder of our Kindergarten Open House on Tuesday, September 7. The Morning Class is invited to visit from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, and the Afternoon Class may visit from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. This gives the children an opportunity to visit the classroom with their parents, find his/her hook, renew friendships and meet myself. All Senior Kindergarten students will be attending school on Wednesday, September 8. Junior Kindergarten students will begin on the date listed on note previously sent home.
Like last year, I will be corresponding by means of this blog and email, and I will also post notices at the entrance door by the playground. My parent volunteers were also very helpful last year in coordinating parent volunteers for Library, Computer Lab, Reading Club and Special Events.
SNACKS/BIRTHDAYS etc.
I am asking parents to take turns bringing in the snack for the whole class. Please make sure to bring enough snacks for 20 children. A calendar will be sent home at the beginning of each month indicating your day to provide snack. This will coincide with your child’s special day where they are given the opportunity to be the class leader, take the attendance to the office and do other special tasks.
Your child’s special day will also correspond with his/her birthday. On his/her birthday your child can bring in a special individual snack such as cupcakes or cookies to celebrate. Please refrain from bringing in cakes as it is difficult to cut and serve it to the entire class.
Please do not bring in any snacks containing nuts as nut allergies can be very severe or even fatal. All baked goods or special treats must be commercially purchased and be labelled nut-free.
The days of the week are designated to specific snack foods to provide a healthy variety of food.
Monday: washed and cut vegetables with or without dip-carrots, celery sticks, green/red peppers, cucumbers, broccoli, cauliflower etc.
Tuesday: crackers with cheese, cheese whiz, spreadable cream cheese
Wednesday: washed and cut fruit-apples, oranges, pears, bananas, grapes, strawberries etc.
Thursday: your choice of a healthy snack
Friday: cookies, muffins, rice krispy squares etc.
(must be commercially produced and labelled nut-free)
MYSTERY BAG
The Mystery Bag will be given to each child in turn on THURSDAY and they will present what they have placed in the bag on FRIDAY. The children use their questioning skills to guess what is in the bag.
SHOW AND TELL
Show and Tell for each child will be the same day as his/her SNACK DAY which will also ideally correspond to their BIRTHDAY (if their birthday falls on a weekend they will provide snack the previous Friday, and if your child's birthday falls in the summer months we will celebrate and do snack etc. in June).
Thank you for your continued support as always!
Beverley
I hope that everyone has had a restful summer! I am looking forward to meeting with you and your children next week and to a wonderful new school year. The first week is a transitional week for JK and SK students as they adjust to their classroom setting and to being in school for the morning/afternoon. Letters were sent home in June regarding your child's first week schedule and if you have further questions please contact the office; they have a copy of my schedule as well.
A reminder of our Kindergarten Open House on Tuesday, September 7. The Morning Class is invited to visit from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, and the Afternoon Class may visit from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. This gives the children an opportunity to visit the classroom with their parents, find his/her hook, renew friendships and meet myself. All Senior Kindergarten students will be attending school on Wednesday, September 8. Junior Kindergarten students will begin on the date listed on note previously sent home.
Like last year, I will be corresponding by means of this blog and email, and I will also post notices at the entrance door by the playground. My parent volunteers were also very helpful last year in coordinating parent volunteers for Library, Computer Lab, Reading Club and Special Events.
SNACKS/BIRTHDAYS etc.
I am asking parents to take turns bringing in the snack for the whole class. Please make sure to bring enough snacks for 20 children. A calendar will be sent home at the beginning of each month indicating your day to provide snack. This will coincide with your child’s special day where they are given the opportunity to be the class leader, take the attendance to the office and do other special tasks.
Your child’s special day will also correspond with his/her birthday. On his/her birthday your child can bring in a special individual snack such as cupcakes or cookies to celebrate. Please refrain from bringing in cakes as it is difficult to cut and serve it to the entire class.
Please do not bring in any snacks containing nuts as nut allergies can be very severe or even fatal. All baked goods or special treats must be commercially purchased and be labelled nut-free.
The days of the week are designated to specific snack foods to provide a healthy variety of food.
Monday: washed and cut vegetables with or without dip-carrots, celery sticks, green/red peppers, cucumbers, broccoli, cauliflower etc.
Tuesday: crackers with cheese, cheese whiz, spreadable cream cheese
Wednesday: washed and cut fruit-apples, oranges, pears, bananas, grapes, strawberries etc.
Thursday: your choice of a healthy snack
Friday: cookies, muffins, rice krispy squares etc.
(must be commercially produced and labelled nut-free)
MYSTERY BAG
The Mystery Bag will be given to each child in turn on THURSDAY and they will present what they have placed in the bag on FRIDAY. The children use their questioning skills to guess what is in the bag.
SHOW AND TELL
Show and Tell for each child will be the same day as his/her SNACK DAY which will also ideally correspond to their BIRTHDAY (if their birthday falls on a weekend they will provide snack the previous Friday, and if your child's birthday falls in the summer months we will celebrate and do snack etc. in June).
Thank you for your continued support as always!
Beverley
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
End of Year
It's hard to believe that the school year is almost over and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone, most especially the parent volunteers and of course all the children, for making this such a wonderful year for everyone. I wish you a wonderful and safe summer and I look forward to seeing everyone again in the fall.
Take care,
Beverley
Take care,
Beverley
Friday, April 30, 2010
Spring Update
Hello everyone
Thank you Mrs. Giancos (Alexandra's mom) and Mr. Solby (Jackson's dad) very much for helping out with our firefighter/fire truck visit. The kids had a wonderful time and learned a lot about fire safety.
May 4 is our Artist in the Classroom visit. Please dress your children in casual clothes for this special day.
The Volunteer Tea is Thursday, May 20 after school. Invitations were sent out to thank all parents who have so kindly volunteered in the classroom this year.
Thank you for bringing in Tombola and Seeds of Hope monies.
The Kindergarten classes are going to be purchasing T-shirts through "schooltee.com" for our Seniors going on to Grade One. Please kindly submit $15.00 for your SK child's shirt before May 15 so that the shirts will be ready for our SK Graduation Party June 29. Thank you.
You will notice more booklets coming home since the children are completing their "numbers", "patterns" "cutting and pasting" and "alphabet" booklets. Please review them with your child - they've worked very hard on them!
Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
Thank you Mrs. Giancos (Alexandra's mom) and Mr. Solby (Jackson's dad) very much for helping out with our firefighter/fire truck visit. The kids had a wonderful time and learned a lot about fire safety.
May 4 is our Artist in the Classroom visit. Please dress your children in casual clothes for this special day.
The Volunteer Tea is Thursday, May 20 after school. Invitations were sent out to thank all parents who have so kindly volunteered in the classroom this year.
Thank you for bringing in Tombola and Seeds of Hope monies.
The Kindergarten classes are going to be purchasing T-shirts through "schooltee.com" for our Seniors going on to Grade One. Please kindly submit $15.00 for your SK child's shirt before May 15 so that the shirts will be ready for our SK Graduation Party June 29. Thank you.
You will notice more booklets coming home since the children are completing their "numbers", "patterns" "cutting and pasting" and "alphabet" booklets. Please review them with your child - they've worked very hard on them!
Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Happy Easter Weekend
Hello everyone
I hope you and your families have a wonderful Easter weekend!
Please note the following important dates:
Friday, April 30 - tentative date for Firefighter to visit our classroom. Three Parent Volunteers are required.
Tuesday, May 4 -- "Artist in the Classroom."
The Kindergarten Team is also organizing a trip to the High Park Nature Centre! Details to follow. Parent Volunteers are welcome.
Warm regards,
Mrs. Tyndall
I hope you and your families have a wonderful Easter weekend!
Please note the following important dates:
Friday, April 30 - tentative date for Firefighter to visit our classroom. Three Parent Volunteers are required.
Tuesday, May 4 -- "Artist in the Classroom."
The Kindergarten Team is also organizing a trip to the High Park Nature Centre! Details to follow. Parent Volunteers are welcome.
Warm regards,
Mrs. Tyndall
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Update
Spring is finally here and we are busy in the classroom working on Spring-related themes: Spring vocabulary, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, and changing seasons. After March Break we will be starting a little classroom garden; the children will plant seeds and take care of their growing plants. We will also be starting a highly recommended new writing program called "Handwriting Without Tears" that the LKS Kindergarten teachers have purchased as a team, as part of our overall literacy and writing program. www.hwtears.com
The children will also be starting daily journals to encourage their writing skills and fine motor skills through printing and drawing pictures.
I have returned all the yellow homework phonics booklets that were handed in. Please encourage your child to complete the booklet so that they can be updated with our new Jolly Phonics letter-sounds.
I wish everyone a wonderful and safe March Break!
Mrs. Tyndall
The children will also be starting daily journals to encourage their writing skills and fine motor skills through printing and drawing pictures.
I have returned all the yellow homework phonics booklets that were handed in. Please encourage your child to complete the booklet so that they can be updated with our new Jolly Phonics letter-sounds.
I wish everyone a wonderful and safe March Break!
Mrs. Tyndall
Friday, February 26, 2010
Bookfair
The Bookfair for our class will be on Wednesday, March 3. If your child will be purchasing any items please send money with them in a labelled plastic bag. Thank you.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Update
Hello everyone
The 100th day party was fun today and the kids did a lot of crafts and fun activities. Thank you for sending 100 items with your children to show their friends.
The snuggle books didn’t go home today; Josie’s baby Ruth was sick with a fever. I hope little Ruth feels better soon. We’ll start a new series of snuggle books next week. Thank you so much Josie for all your help in spite of how busy you are – it is really appreciated.
Tomorrow is our Valentine’s Day Party and we will be doing several fun activities as well. Thank you to our parent volunteers for your help tomorrow.
Thank you as well to everyone who helped out with the skating event on Tuesday. The kids had fun!
Please remember to bring in a jar and matching lid for next week.
Warm regards,
Beverley
The 100th day party was fun today and the kids did a lot of crafts and fun activities. Thank you for sending 100 items with your children to show their friends.
The snuggle books didn’t go home today; Josie’s baby Ruth was sick with a fever. I hope little Ruth feels better soon. We’ll start a new series of snuggle books next week. Thank you so much Josie for all your help in spite of how busy you are – it is really appreciated.
Tomorrow is our Valentine’s Day Party and we will be doing several fun activities as well. Thank you to our parent volunteers for your help tomorrow.
Thank you as well to everyone who helped out with the skating event on Tuesday. The kids had fun!
Please remember to bring in a jar and matching lid for next week.
Warm regards,
Beverley
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Reminders and Craft Idea
Hello everyone
Today's Olympic Presentation was a great success! Thank you again to Jackson's dad for taking the time to present this very special event.
A reminder that Tuesday, February 8 is Skating Day (9:15-10:15 a.m.). All children and volunteers on the ice must be wearing CSA approved hockey helmets.
Thursday, February 11 is our 100th Day Celebration and we will be doing lots of fun crafts and activities to celebrate this. Friday, February 12 is our Valentine's Party (10:30-11:45) and the children have been busy making crafts for that event as well.
Yesterday our JKs and SKs met their Reading Buddies from Mrs. Shklar's Grade 3 class. Her students will be reading to their Reading Buddies once a week (Day 2).
I would like to have the children replicate a craft that Alexandra made (on her own!) and brought in for Show and Tell: it is a "ship in a bottle" made of rice, plasticine, paper, and shells. The children loved it and I thought we could all make one before we say "bon voyage" for March Break. Please bring in a washed speghetti sauce-style jar with the lid. It should be about 400-500 ml in size.
We are still working on our booklets and have finished letters G and O in the phonics program. When your child has completed his/her small yellow phonics book at home, I will glue in the next set of phonics we have done. The children also have phonics books they work on in class.
Best regards,
Beverley
Today's Olympic Presentation was a great success! Thank you again to Jackson's dad for taking the time to present this very special event.
A reminder that Tuesday, February 8 is Skating Day (9:15-10:15 a.m.). All children and volunteers on the ice must be wearing CSA approved hockey helmets.
Thursday, February 11 is our 100th Day Celebration and we will be doing lots of fun crafts and activities to celebrate this. Friday, February 12 is our Valentine's Party (10:30-11:45) and the children have been busy making crafts for that event as well.
Yesterday our JKs and SKs met their Reading Buddies from Mrs. Shklar's Grade 3 class. Her students will be reading to their Reading Buddies once a week (Day 2).
I would like to have the children replicate a craft that Alexandra made (on her own!) and brought in for Show and Tell: it is a "ship in a bottle" made of rice, plasticine, paper, and shells. The children loved it and I thought we could all make one before we say "bon voyage" for March Break. Please bring in a washed speghetti sauce-style jar with the lid. It should be about 400-500 ml in size.
We are still working on our booklets and have finished letters G and O in the phonics program. When your child has completed his/her small yellow phonics book at home, I will glue in the next set of phonics we have done. The children also have phonics books they work on in class.
Best regards,
Beverley
Monday, January 25, 2010
Skating Day February 9
I have booked the Lambton Ice Rink for our class` skating party on Tuesday, February 9th! Please be sure to dress your children in their snowsuits and snowpants that day and to bring their skates and helmets. Helmets are mandatory for children to be on the ice.
Report Card and Interview update
Just a reminder that here will be no report cards going home this term for the SK children; there are, however , Informal Summaries going home for the JK children. These summaries are related to the December interviews and any new progress a child has made since that time. The JK summaries will be going home March 1st.
Teachers will only be requesting interviews with the parents of children whose progress needs to be addressed.
Teachers will only be requesting interviews with the parents of children whose progress needs to be addressed.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Kindergarten Class Updates
Great news from the Library! Author/Illustrator Dan Bar-el is traveling from his home in British Columbia to visit our Kindergarten, Grade 1 and Grade 2 Classes on JANUARY 20th. Dan is the author of 2 chapter books that have been included in the Silver Birch Express lists, as well as "Such a Prince", which was an honour book in the Blue Spruce list for 2009. Today we read "Such a Prince" in class. If you would like to order a book from Dan when he visits the library please hand in the form that was sent home last week.
Please remember to work with your children in the yellow phonics booklets and to hand them in when finished.
I am completing assessments regarding writing numbers 1-10 and will send a note home shortly regarding your child's progress. I will also send home some sheets from the "Writing Without Tears" program to assist your child.
Our song for the Sharing Assembly is "Winter Is..." and the tune is to the song "Silver and Gold" from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Your child will take home his/her Song and Poem Book next week. Please ask your child to sing the song for you in preparation for our Assembly.
Thank you very much for bringing in slippers/indoor shoes for your children's cubbies. Please continue to encourage your children to get dressed for outdoors with minimal help.
In February we will be starting READING BUDDIES with Ms. Shklar's grade 3 class which is very exciting news! Your child will be paired with a Reading Buddy who will read to your child once a week.
To assist our TDSB Bag helpers please remind your child to place his/her snuggle book in the red snuggle book bin and his/her TDSB bag in the white bin, each morning upon classroom entry. Thank you.
Over half of the blocks in the big block area have been moved to Kindergarten Storage and the area is now open again for play.
February will be a busy month again and we will be celebrating 100th Day on February 11th and Valentine's Day on Friday, February 12th.
Finally, thank you very much for bringing in your old Christmas/Birthday/Other Celebration Cards for our use in the classroom craft area and writing centre.
Warm regards,
Beverley
Please remember to work with your children in the yellow phonics booklets and to hand them in when finished.
I am completing assessments regarding writing numbers 1-10 and will send a note home shortly regarding your child's progress. I will also send home some sheets from the "Writing Without Tears" program to assist your child.
Our song for the Sharing Assembly is "Winter Is..." and the tune is to the song "Silver and Gold" from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Your child will take home his/her Song and Poem Book next week. Please ask your child to sing the song for you in preparation for our Assembly.
Thank you very much for bringing in slippers/indoor shoes for your children's cubbies. Please continue to encourage your children to get dressed for outdoors with minimal help.
In February we will be starting READING BUDDIES with Ms. Shklar's grade 3 class which is very exciting news! Your child will be paired with a Reading Buddy who will read to your child once a week.
To assist our TDSB Bag helpers please remind your child to place his/her snuggle book in the red snuggle book bin and his/her TDSB bag in the white bin, each morning upon classroom entry. Thank you.
Over half of the blocks in the big block area have been moved to Kindergarten Storage and the area is now open again for play.
February will be a busy month again and we will be celebrating 100th Day on February 11th and Valentine's Day on Friday, February 12th.
Finally, thank you very much for bringing in your old Christmas/Birthday/Other Celebration Cards for our use in the classroom craft area and writing centre.
Warm regards,
Beverley
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Happy New Year and Welcome Back
Hello everyone and welcome back! I hope you and your children have had a restful holiday. I have posted my archived emails to classroom parents dating from September to December on my blog for your reference. I also have photos from many of our classroom activities and will post them on my blog shortly.
Just a reminder that this Wednesday, January 6 is our Scientist in the Classroom day - thank you to our four parent volunteers! The children will be learning about Magnets and the 2-hour session will start right after announcements.
A reminder from the Library that parent volunteers are no longer needed. If you have signed up to be a volunteer for January and would still like to help in the classroom the originally scheduled day (but not during Library time) please let me know -- you could be a special mystery reader or help the children with their phonics booklets, for example!
An important note regarding snacks: due to the increase in food allergies the kindergarten team would ask that any baked goods or special treats (i.e. birthday treats) be commercially purchased and that they *must* be nut safe/free (i.e. baked/made in a nut-free facility).
I would also like to say a very sincere thank you to all of you for your wonderful and generous Christmas gifts and for the lovely rosemary tree with the children's ornaments on them; I will treasure them and I also truly appreciate the gifts from Ma Maison, Starbucks and Gourmet Kitchen! I have written thank you cards to you individually and they will go home in tomorrow's white TDSB bags along with some of the Holiday crafts your children made that hadn't dried by the end of our party. Thank you again.
Please remember that the children need indoor shoes/slippers that they wear in the morning and that stay in their cubbies overnight. Most of the children can now do their own zippers and dress themselves which is excellent! On cold days such as today we won't be going outside but the children still always need to be warmly dressed for the walk home i.e. hats and mitts. I have a "lost and found" corner in the cloakroom and a few pairs of gloves and two sweaters are there now.
This month we are continuing with phonics and numbers and the green phonics booklets will be going home this Thursday. If your child has missed some of the sheets due to absence please encourage him/her to complete the sheets at home over the weekend.
As always, Reading Club is on Mondays and Fridays from 10:30-11:00 a.m.
I will be starting a new series of books for our Snuggle Books that go home on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please remember to return the white TDSB bag before the next suggle book day (i.e. by Monday or Wednesday respectively).
Please feel free to send me an email at any time if you have specific questions that I haven't addressed in my blog, or as always you can talk to me before or after classes.
Thank you,
Beverley
Just a reminder that this Wednesday, January 6 is our Scientist in the Classroom day - thank you to our four parent volunteers! The children will be learning about Magnets and the 2-hour session will start right after announcements.
A reminder from the Library that parent volunteers are no longer needed. If you have signed up to be a volunteer for January and would still like to help in the classroom the originally scheduled day (but not during Library time) please let me know -- you could be a special mystery reader or help the children with their phonics booklets, for example!
An important note regarding snacks: due to the increase in food allergies the kindergarten team would ask that any baked goods or special treats (i.e. birthday treats) be commercially purchased and that they *must* be nut safe/free (i.e. baked/made in a nut-free facility).
I would also like to say a very sincere thank you to all of you for your wonderful and generous Christmas gifts and for the lovely rosemary tree with the children's ornaments on them; I will treasure them and I also truly appreciate the gifts from Ma Maison, Starbucks and Gourmet Kitchen! I have written thank you cards to you individually and they will go home in tomorrow's white TDSB bags along with some of the Holiday crafts your children made that hadn't dried by the end of our party. Thank you again.
Please remember that the children need indoor shoes/slippers that they wear in the morning and that stay in their cubbies overnight. Most of the children can now do their own zippers and dress themselves which is excellent! On cold days such as today we won't be going outside but the children still always need to be warmly dressed for the walk home i.e. hats and mitts. I have a "lost and found" corner in the cloakroom and a few pairs of gloves and two sweaters are there now.
This month we are continuing with phonics and numbers and the green phonics booklets will be going home this Thursday. If your child has missed some of the sheets due to absence please encourage him/her to complete the sheets at home over the weekend.
As always, Reading Club is on Mondays and Fridays from 10:30-11:00 a.m.
I will be starting a new series of books for our Snuggle Books that go home on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please remember to return the white TDSB bag before the next suggle book day (i.e. by Monday or Wednesday respectively).
Please feel free to send me an email at any time if you have specific questions that I haven't addressed in my blog, or as always you can talk to me before or after classes.
Thank you,
Beverley
Monday, January 4, 2010
Schedules
Hello everyone
Just a reminder that the new Snack, Mystery Bag and Classroom schedules for January and February are posted outside the entrance and that they were emailed to you in December. Thank you as always Vicky for your help with the scheduling!
Just a reminder that the new Snack, Mystery Bag and Classroom schedules for January and February are posted outside the entrance and that they were emailed to you in December. Thank you as always Vicky for your help with the scheduling!
December post 4
Hello everyone
We picked Secret Santas today and some children left their slips of paper (indicating who they chose) in the coatroom. The slips of paper should be in your child’s backpack. Just in case, I wrote down which child picked which other child to give a gift to. Here is the list:
CHILD (receives gift) SECRET SANTA (gives gift)
Callum William
Owen Alexandra
Joshua David
Eric Siri
David Jamie
Maya K. Spencer
John Adrian
Julian Maya S.
Alexandra Joshua
Siri Callum
Jamie Julian
Samantha Eric
Chloe Samantha
William Chloe
Maya S. Maya K.
Jackson Sia
Sia Jackson
Spencer Owen
Adrian John
Please remind your children to keep who they are giving a gift to a secret. Please also ask your child to make a card for his/her classmate at home. We will open the gifts on Friday during the party!
Thank you – have a nice weekend.
Beverley
We picked Secret Santas today and some children left their slips of paper (indicating who they chose) in the coatroom. The slips of paper should be in your child’s backpack. Just in case, I wrote down which child picked which other child to give a gift to. Here is the list:
CHILD (receives gift) SECRET SANTA (gives gift)
Callum William
Owen Alexandra
Joshua David
Eric Siri
David Jamie
Maya K. Spencer
John Adrian
Julian Maya S.
Alexandra Joshua
Siri Callum
Jamie Julian
Samantha Eric
Chloe Samantha
William Chloe
Maya S. Maya K.
Jackson Sia
Sia Jackson
Spencer Owen
Adrian John
Please remind your children to keep who they are giving a gift to a secret. Please also ask your child to make a card for his/her classmate at home. We will open the gifts on Friday during the party!
Thank you – have a nice weekend.
Beverley
December post 3
Hello everyone
I have a small request regarding Holiday Cards; after the holidays, rather than recycling them, please tear or cut off the message/personal part of the card and save the picture part of the cards so that we can reuse them next year at our writing/craft centres. The children love to create their own cards and they really love the pictures.
Thank you – I’ll send out another reminder in January. Used Birthday, Easter or other holiday cards such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day would also be a great opportunities to reuse them in the classroom.
Beverley
I have a small request regarding Holiday Cards; after the holidays, rather than recycling them, please tear or cut off the message/personal part of the card and save the picture part of the cards so that we can reuse them next year at our writing/craft centres. The children love to create their own cards and they really love the pictures.
Thank you – I’ll send out another reminder in January. Used Birthday, Easter or other holiday cards such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day would also be a great opportunities to reuse them in the classroom.
Beverley
December post 2
Hello everyone
If you haven’t let me know about whether you would like your child to participate in Secret Santa, please let me know.
Tomorrow I will be sending home the children’s music folders so that they can practice their songs and poem at home this week – the concert is only a week away! We will be singing Oh Christmas Tree, Bonhomme, and our poem is called “Christmas.” Please remember that our outfits for the concert will be white tops, dark/black bottoms, and a Santa hat if you have one (always available at the dollar store).
We are working on lots of holiday crafts as well as finishing up two phonics sounds “n” and c/k”. A booklet with the sounds we have done to date will go home for the holidays, in which the children can write words with those sounds and also add photos or pictures of words with those sounds.
This week your child will be going home with a little Christmas calendar s/he has made in class with beads and a bell. The green beads represent weekdays and the red beads are weekends. The bell is for Christmas day, and the children count down with the beads the number of days until Christmas.
Take care,
Beverley
If you haven’t let me know about whether you would like your child to participate in Secret Santa, please let me know.
Tomorrow I will be sending home the children’s music folders so that they can practice their songs and poem at home this week – the concert is only a week away! We will be singing Oh Christmas Tree, Bonhomme, and our poem is called “Christmas.” Please remember that our outfits for the concert will be white tops, dark/black bottoms, and a Santa hat if you have one (always available at the dollar store).
We are working on lots of holiday crafts as well as finishing up two phonics sounds “n” and c/k”. A booklet with the sounds we have done to date will go home for the holidays, in which the children can write words with those sounds and also add photos or pictures of words with those sounds.
This week your child will be going home with a little Christmas calendar s/he has made in class with beads and a bell. The green beads represent weekdays and the red beads are weekends. The bell is for Christmas day, and the children count down with the beads the number of days until Christmas.
Take care,
Beverley
December post 1
Hello everyone
I hope you have had a nice weekend! It was very nice to have had the opportunity to meet with many of you for interviews on Thursday and Friday.
Just a reminder that tomorrow is Library, and our Holiday concert is on the 14th.
I was wondering if you would like to participate in a “Secret Santa”; each child would draw another child’s name from a hat (or Santa cap!) and they would give a small gift for under 10.00. Let me know if you would like to participate – we could leave the gifts under our little tree on the Christmas table and could open them at the Christmas Party on the 18th.
I will be setting up a blog over the holidays and will let everyone know when it is ready. I will also include my emails from September for your reference.
Take care,
Beverley
I hope you have had a nice weekend! It was very nice to have had the opportunity to meet with many of you for interviews on Thursday and Friday.
Just a reminder that tomorrow is Library, and our Holiday concert is on the 14th.
I was wondering if you would like to participate in a “Secret Santa”; each child would draw another child’s name from a hat (or Santa cap!) and they would give a small gift for under 10.00. Let me know if you would like to participate – we could leave the gifts under our little tree on the Christmas table and could open them at the Christmas Party on the 18th.
I will be setting up a blog over the holidays and will let everyone know when it is ready. I will also include my emails from September for your reference.
Take care,
Beverley
November post 8
Hello everyone
The Kindergarten Christmas/Holiday Concert will be on Monday, December 14 at 6:00 p.m. Please arrange for your children to be at school by 5:30 p.m. so that we can do a warm-up in the classroom beforehand. Please also have the children dressed in a white top and black skirt/pants. They can wear a Santa hat if they have one .
I will be sending home interview times this week. Reports go home on November 30th, and interviews are December 4th after school and December 5th during the day. Please remember that for First Term only the SKs will be receiving report cards, but parents of both SKs and JKs are welcome to arrange for an interview regarding their child’s progress.
Our yellow Poem and Song Folders went home last week. Please return them by Friday so that we can add some more songs and poems to our collection.
Thank you,
Beverley
The Kindergarten Christmas/Holiday Concert will be on Monday, December 14 at 6:00 p.m. Please arrange for your children to be at school by 5:30 p.m. so that we can do a warm-up in the classroom beforehand. Please also have the children dressed in a white top and black skirt/pants. They can wear a Santa hat if they have one .
I will be sending home interview times this week. Reports go home on November 30th, and interviews are December 4th after school and December 5th during the day. Please remember that for First Term only the SKs will be receiving report cards, but parents of both SKs and JKs are welcome to arrange for an interview regarding their child’s progress.
Our yellow Poem and Song Folders went home last week. Please return them by Friday so that we can add some more songs and poems to our collection.
Thank you,
Beverley
November post 7
Hello everyone
Good news! Almost all the children are able to do up their coats/jackets which is terrific now that the weather is getting colder. Thank you very much for helping your child with this skill at home.
On November 11 the children participated in our Remembrance Day Ceremony and their behaviour was exemplary. A special thank you to Chloe and Callum who did an excellent job in their reading.
This Friday, November 20 is our second Sharing Assembly. We are preparing a song called “Falling Leaves”. The assembly will take place in the lunchroom after morning announcements. Parents whose children are receiving awards (and every child will receive an award by the end of the year – not to worry – I will present 3 students each month) will be notified by email this evening.
This Friday, November 20 is also the Seeds of Hope Day/Fundraiser in which LKS students will wear black and the Seeds of Hope Ambassadors will wear Yellow. Funds raised will go towards building a school in Kenya. A black shirt/dress is fine.
The children have been working hard on their Lettering and Phonics booklets and I have prepared two new booklets for them to work on (and as always, the booklets will go home once your child has completed the exercises): Patterning, and Small and Capital Letters.
Thank you very much to the parents who have been helping with Book Bags and with Reading Club, as well as all the other volunteers who help the children with Computer Lab, by being Mystery readers, and with Library. Your help is sincerely appreciated.
On Friday, November 27 the library will be having a very special guest: Andrea Beck, who is the creator/writer of Elliott Moose. Our normal library time is changed that day from 9:42-10:24 to 10:35-11:35. Dr. Mehta, you are our library helper that day, so please be kind enough to arrive at 10:30 that morning. Mrs. McPhail, you are our Reading Club volunteer that morning, so if possible I would like to change the time of Reading Club to 9:30-10:30. Please let me know if these changes aren’t possible.
Four outstanding Grade 8 volunteers (Teigan (I can’t believe I’ve forgotten her last name since I taught her last year and she is a lovely student!), Scott Sedran, Emily McLean, Maggie Solby and Morganna Turner have been volunteering in my classroom when their regular school work is finished (with teacher permission) which the children are very excited about and which I am delighted about as well.
A reminder to please hand in your “request for interview” forms if you haven’t already done so; I am coordinating times with other teachers who teach our class’ siblings and would like to complete my scheduling by Monday and have those times to you by then.
That’s all the news for today. Please never hesitate to ask me questions etc. I do have time after 11:45 and before school, and I’m also back to LKS at about 3:45 each day.
Beverley
Good news! Almost all the children are able to do up their coats/jackets which is terrific now that the weather is getting colder. Thank you very much for helping your child with this skill at home.
On November 11 the children participated in our Remembrance Day Ceremony and their behaviour was exemplary. A special thank you to Chloe and Callum who did an excellent job in their reading.
This Friday, November 20 is our second Sharing Assembly. We are preparing a song called “Falling Leaves”. The assembly will take place in the lunchroom after morning announcements. Parents whose children are receiving awards (and every child will receive an award by the end of the year – not to worry – I will present 3 students each month) will be notified by email this evening.
This Friday, November 20 is also the Seeds of Hope Day/Fundraiser in which LKS students will wear black and the Seeds of Hope Ambassadors will wear Yellow. Funds raised will go towards building a school in Kenya. A black shirt/dress is fine.
The children have been working hard on their Lettering and Phonics booklets and I have prepared two new booklets for them to work on (and as always, the booklets will go home once your child has completed the exercises): Patterning, and Small and Capital Letters.
Thank you very much to the parents who have been helping with Book Bags and with Reading Club, as well as all the other volunteers who help the children with Computer Lab, by being Mystery readers, and with Library. Your help is sincerely appreciated.
On Friday, November 27 the library will be having a very special guest: Andrea Beck, who is the creator/writer of Elliott Moose. Our normal library time is changed that day from 9:42-10:24 to 10:35-11:35. Dr. Mehta, you are our library helper that day, so please be kind enough to arrive at 10:30 that morning. Mrs. McPhail, you are our Reading Club volunteer that morning, so if possible I would like to change the time of Reading Club to 9:30-10:30. Please let me know if these changes aren’t possible.
Four outstanding Grade 8 volunteers (Teigan (I can’t believe I’ve forgotten her last name since I taught her last year and she is a lovely student!), Scott Sedran, Emily McLean, Maggie Solby and Morganna Turner have been volunteering in my classroom when their regular school work is finished (with teacher permission) which the children are very excited about and which I am delighted about as well.
A reminder to please hand in your “request for interview” forms if you haven’t already done so; I am coordinating times with other teachers who teach our class’ siblings and would like to complete my scheduling by Monday and have those times to you by then.
That’s all the news for today. Please never hesitate to ask me questions etc. I do have time after 11:45 and before school, and I’m also back to LKS at about 3:45 each day.
Beverley
November post 6
Hello everyone
One more small request: If you could find the time on your walk to school or this weekend, please have your child gather 10 (hopefully varied in colour, size, type) LEAVES so that we can discuss and graph the class’ collection next Friday.
Thank you so much. The leaves could be put in a small zip lock baggy. We will do this graphing next week.
This week’s Friday graphing will be the classroom pumpkin.
Thanks again,
Beverley
P.S. If you child is having trouble opening/closing their jacket zipper, please check that the zipper is working. Also, it is getting colder outside and the children spend from 10-20 minutes outside each day.
One more small request: If you could find the time on your walk to school or this weekend, please have your child gather 10 (hopefully varied in colour, size, type) LEAVES so that we can discuss and graph the class’ collection next Friday.
Thank you so much. The leaves could be put in a small zip lock baggy. We will do this graphing next week.
This week’s Friday graphing will be the classroom pumpkin.
Thanks again,
Beverley
P.S. If you child is having trouble opening/closing their jacket zipper, please check that the zipper is working. Also, it is getting colder outside and the children spend from 10-20 minutes outside each day.
November post 5
Hello everyone,
Here is the link to the Ontario Curriculum Document for Kindergarten:
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/kindercurrb.pdf Pages 37-39 in particular discuss Reading and Writing Expected Outcomes (by the end of the Kindergarten Years).
Below is another useful article regarding Kindergarten basics now that we are going to be starting our Reading Club
Many parents are worried that their children should be able to read in kindergarten. This of course is a wonderful goal and many children accomplish it, however it is not a requirement. The most important thing is that your child experiment with reading and writing during the kindergarten year. More than likely your child will learn to read basic stories by the end of the year if he/she did not read before entering kindergarten. Of course, if your child reads before entering kindergarten then he/she will learn even more and read even better.
Preparing Your Child
If you are interested in preparing your child to read before kindergarten or at least helping him understand the basics of reading then there are a few things you can do. The first thing is to teach the alphabet and vowels. Once your child knows the alphabet then you can start working on recognizing the alphabet and the sounds of the different letters. If your child enters kindergarten with this basic knowledge then he will have no problem whatsoever learning to read during the year.
The best way to start is to introduce your child to the alphabet through books. Kids love to have their parents or others read books to them and they will sit quietly and pay attention. If you are going over the alphabet and having your child read the letters after you then you will see him learning and having fun at the same time. Then, make a game out of tracing the letters and coloring them with different colors. Also have your child write his name and teach him the letters in his name. This will all prepare your child for kindergarten and help him understand the basic letters and sounds which in turn will help him learn to read.
There are also lots of educational DVDs that are fun to watch and teach kids all about the alphabet, phonics, reading, and more. Reader Rabbit is a good example. It will keep him occupied and he will have lots of fun learning about reading and having fun.
You can find other ways to teach your child the alphabet and basics of reading. Whatever seems to work for you and your child will be the best thing to focus on.
Here is another excellent summary:
• What is the real purpose of kindergarten?
• Developing Self-esteem
• Emphasis on cooperation
• Fostering children's natural love of learning by building on curiosity
• How is kindergarten different from preschool?
• Socialization and play are still key elements but kindergartners are also introduced to more “formal learning” and work in a more organized independent manner.
• What makes a good kindergarten program?
• Expands a child’s ability to learn about the world, organize information and problem solve; in turn this increases feelings of self-worth
• Children should feel free to express themselves through talk and through use of blocks, paint, clay and other creative materials.
• A balanced program should also include a combination of formal and informal activities and projects—storytelling, music and dramatic play—which allow children to work in groups or on their own
• Active hands-on learning
• Are all five-year-olds “ready” for kindergarten, and what do I do if my child is not quite ready?
• No two children develop in the same way or at the same time.
• Educators describe the child’s development as having four dimensions:
• Intellectual
• Social
• Emotional
• Physical
All four do not progress or develop at the same rate
• The best schools and teachers understand this and adapt their classroom plans to accommodate the differences among children.
• If your child’s fifth birthday falls near the cutoff date for school admission—and he or
• she seems unusually immature compared with others her age, or doesn’t seem quite ready to learn in a classroom setting—you might consider postponing kindergarten. Experts recommend waiting a year if you have serious doubts—older children generally do better in school than younger ones.
• Do what is best for your child!
• What kinds of challenges might come up as my child adjusts to kindergarten, and what’s the best way to handle these?
• Many parents often tend to talk up kindergarten as “real school,” and emphasize discipline issues. This can add fear for a child. It is important to talk about what might be familiar and safe, and not just new, big and important.
• The fact that your child may have to spend more time sitting down may cause anxiety.
• What is the role of play in kindergarten?
• When you are five, play is your most important life’s work
• There should be plenty of time of every day for children to choose and direct their own play.
• There should be sensory tables and blocks, and dramatic play areas to encourage youngsters to use their imaginations in positive, thought-provoking ways.
• What will my child learn about reading and writing in kindergarten?
• The kindergarten reading and writing program should be an extension of reading and writing that begin at home!
• Most kindergarten teachers don’t necessarily “teach” reading, in a good program children are immersed in a language-rich environment which helps them to identify words that have meaning to them.
• Wide range of reading abilities in any one kindergarten class—some children may be fluent readers while others can’t read at all. Parents of non-readers need not worry, as research clearly indicates that children who are formally taught to read in kindergarten have no significant advantage over their peers by the end of second grade.
• In terms of writing, the school program should help children explore ways in which writing is useful and meaningful.
• Writing may take the form of random controlled scribbling or invented spelling
• Children experiment with different forms of writing to meet their needs and interests. The classroom should provide a variety of writing tools. Opportunity to explore different forms of writing such as notes, poems and journals.
• What will my child learn about math?
• Children begin to understand numbers through measuring, comparing counting and matching quantities. These concepts are reinforced through motor-skills activities such as coloring, pasting, drawing, and the use of special hands on math materials known as “manipulatives.”
• “table” blocks in a variety of shapes and colors
• puzzles
• small objects for counting, sorting and classifying
• Regular building blocks are great for early –math material for exploring geometry, parts-and-wholes, patterns and measurement.
• How will science and social studies be introduced?
• No strict curriculum—but children will learn about these subjects through daily experiences.
• As children explore, they experiment, they invent, they think about cause and effect, and they predict results.
• As they use blocks, they discover properties of balance; as they use art materials, they are inventing.
• Children explore social studies in much the same way. Children learn by looking at pictures, hearing stories, watching videos and going on field trips. A teacher does not dump information on children, but rather teaches through a process of self-discovery.
• What about art, music, and physical education?
• The arts help build coordination (fine motor skills) and develop literacy, and math and science skills
• Art supplies should be accessible for children’s daily use
• The room will also have a tape recorder or cd player where children can sing songs, and play simple instruments
• Physical education, active play helps children learn about the value of exercise as they build their physical strength and muscular coordination.
• What will my child learn about getting along with others?
• The teacher is instrumental in showing kids how to resolve their disagreements in a peaceful positive way. Providing children with the ability to problem-solve—together in a group and independently is a key piece of kindergarten.
• Children learn important social skills and behaviors by interacting with one another in formal and informal activities. Developing these social skills is one of the most important missions of any kindergarten program.
• When should I talk to my child’s teacher? When should I talk to the director?
• When parents and teachers work together as partners, everyone benefits—especially the children.
• The teacher needs to understand how the child interacts at home—and vice versa.
• Parents need to know what and how their child is doing at school.
• To establish an early, positive link with your child’s teacher, have a telephone conference or in-person meeting before the school year begins to introduce yourself and set up a partnership.
• Keep communication going all year through regular conferences, school visits and written notes.
• If there are issues to clear up about school policy, if you are seeking ways to get involved in the classroom, or if your communications with the teacher have become difficult for some reason, then you should not hesitate to see the director.
• What can I do at home to support what my child is doing in school?
• Incorporate reading into your daily routine. You should also make sure your child sees you reading.
• Show interest in and support of your child’s school activities.
• Get involved in your child’s play.
• Make use of a variety of language experiences through everyday family life
• Mostly, just take time to talk with your children, and get engaged in their play.
• How do I know if my child is getting a good education and how do I evaluate that?
• Listening to your child, asking questions, and observing behavior is the best way to assess the quality of education. Does your child find school fun and satisfying—or is it boring and stressful? Is your child feeling confident and competent?
• Are their strengths as an individual learner being recognized?
• Is he or she being supported with patience and compassion in areas that need to develop?
• DO NOT rely on test scores or worksheets coming home as a tool for evaluating your kindergarten program. At the kindergarten level, test scores are neither valid nor reliable, and may give you a misleading picture of how your child is learning and how well the school stacks up against others.
• What kind of special training do kindergarten teachers have?
• Are trained for their work in early childhood courses at either the undergraduate college or graduate school level. Many are trained to teach other grades as well.
• There is one characteristic that most kindergarten teachers share: a real love of children.
• It is the combination of professional skills, experience and real love that typically turns the kindergarten experience into a joyous one for children.
• Are all kids ready for first grade after a year in kindergarten? How can I tell if my child is ready?
• Emphasize once more that there is a very wide range of abilities and normal developmental differences among children ages five and six.
• Not all kids will be equally ready for first grade after one year of kindergarten.
• Do not assume that your child is not ready just because he or she seems less mature in some areas than other kids.
Here is the link to the Ontario Curriculum Document for Kindergarten:
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/kindercurrb.pdf Pages 37-39 in particular discuss Reading and Writing Expected Outcomes (by the end of the Kindergarten Years).
Below is another useful article regarding Kindergarten basics now that we are going to be starting our Reading Club
Many parents are worried that their children should be able to read in kindergarten. This of course is a wonderful goal and many children accomplish it, however it is not a requirement. The most important thing is that your child experiment with reading and writing during the kindergarten year. More than likely your child will learn to read basic stories by the end of the year if he/she did not read before entering kindergarten. Of course, if your child reads before entering kindergarten then he/she will learn even more and read even better.
Preparing Your Child
If you are interested in preparing your child to read before kindergarten or at least helping him understand the basics of reading then there are a few things you can do. The first thing is to teach the alphabet and vowels. Once your child knows the alphabet then you can start working on recognizing the alphabet and the sounds of the different letters. If your child enters kindergarten with this basic knowledge then he will have no problem whatsoever learning to read during the year.
The best way to start is to introduce your child to the alphabet through books. Kids love to have their parents or others read books to them and they will sit quietly and pay attention. If you are going over the alphabet and having your child read the letters after you then you will see him learning and having fun at the same time. Then, make a game out of tracing the letters and coloring them with different colors. Also have your child write his name and teach him the letters in his name. This will all prepare your child for kindergarten and help him understand the basic letters and sounds which in turn will help him learn to read.
There are also lots of educational DVDs that are fun to watch and teach kids all about the alphabet, phonics, reading, and more. Reader Rabbit is a good example. It will keep him occupied and he will have lots of fun learning about reading and having fun.
You can find other ways to teach your child the alphabet and basics of reading. Whatever seems to work for you and your child will be the best thing to focus on.
Here is another excellent summary:
• What is the real purpose of kindergarten?
• Developing Self-esteem
• Emphasis on cooperation
• Fostering children's natural love of learning by building on curiosity
• How is kindergarten different from preschool?
• Socialization and play are still key elements but kindergartners are also introduced to more “formal learning” and work in a more organized independent manner.
• What makes a good kindergarten program?
• Expands a child’s ability to learn about the world, organize information and problem solve; in turn this increases feelings of self-worth
• Children should feel free to express themselves through talk and through use of blocks, paint, clay and other creative materials.
• A balanced program should also include a combination of formal and informal activities and projects—storytelling, music and dramatic play—which allow children to work in groups or on their own
• Active hands-on learning
• Are all five-year-olds “ready” for kindergarten, and what do I do if my child is not quite ready?
• No two children develop in the same way or at the same time.
• Educators describe the child’s development as having four dimensions:
• Intellectual
• Social
• Emotional
• Physical
All four do not progress or develop at the same rate
• The best schools and teachers understand this and adapt their classroom plans to accommodate the differences among children.
• If your child’s fifth birthday falls near the cutoff date for school admission—and he or
• she seems unusually immature compared with others her age, or doesn’t seem quite ready to learn in a classroom setting—you might consider postponing kindergarten. Experts recommend waiting a year if you have serious doubts—older children generally do better in school than younger ones.
• Do what is best for your child!
• What kinds of challenges might come up as my child adjusts to kindergarten, and what’s the best way to handle these?
• Many parents often tend to talk up kindergarten as “real school,” and emphasize discipline issues. This can add fear for a child. It is important to talk about what might be familiar and safe, and not just new, big and important.
• The fact that your child may have to spend more time sitting down may cause anxiety.
• What is the role of play in kindergarten?
• When you are five, play is your most important life’s work
• There should be plenty of time of every day for children to choose and direct their own play.
• There should be sensory tables and blocks, and dramatic play areas to encourage youngsters to use their imaginations in positive, thought-provoking ways.
• What will my child learn about reading and writing in kindergarten?
• The kindergarten reading and writing program should be an extension of reading and writing that begin at home!
• Most kindergarten teachers don’t necessarily “teach” reading, in a good program children are immersed in a language-rich environment which helps them to identify words that have meaning to them.
• Wide range of reading abilities in any one kindergarten class—some children may be fluent readers while others can’t read at all. Parents of non-readers need not worry, as research clearly indicates that children who are formally taught to read in kindergarten have no significant advantage over their peers by the end of second grade.
• In terms of writing, the school program should help children explore ways in which writing is useful and meaningful.
• Writing may take the form of random controlled scribbling or invented spelling
• Children experiment with different forms of writing to meet their needs and interests. The classroom should provide a variety of writing tools. Opportunity to explore different forms of writing such as notes, poems and journals.
• What will my child learn about math?
• Children begin to understand numbers through measuring, comparing counting and matching quantities. These concepts are reinforced through motor-skills activities such as coloring, pasting, drawing, and the use of special hands on math materials known as “manipulatives.”
• “table” blocks in a variety of shapes and colors
• puzzles
• small objects for counting, sorting and classifying
• Regular building blocks are great for early –math material for exploring geometry, parts-and-wholes, patterns and measurement.
• How will science and social studies be introduced?
• No strict curriculum—but children will learn about these subjects through daily experiences.
• As children explore, they experiment, they invent, they think about cause and effect, and they predict results.
• As they use blocks, they discover properties of balance; as they use art materials, they are inventing.
• Children explore social studies in much the same way. Children learn by looking at pictures, hearing stories, watching videos and going on field trips. A teacher does not dump information on children, but rather teaches through a process of self-discovery.
• What about art, music, and physical education?
• The arts help build coordination (fine motor skills) and develop literacy, and math and science skills
• Art supplies should be accessible for children’s daily use
• The room will also have a tape recorder or cd player where children can sing songs, and play simple instruments
• Physical education, active play helps children learn about the value of exercise as they build their physical strength and muscular coordination.
• What will my child learn about getting along with others?
• The teacher is instrumental in showing kids how to resolve their disagreements in a peaceful positive way. Providing children with the ability to problem-solve—together in a group and independently is a key piece of kindergarten.
• Children learn important social skills and behaviors by interacting with one another in formal and informal activities. Developing these social skills is one of the most important missions of any kindergarten program.
• When should I talk to my child’s teacher? When should I talk to the director?
• When parents and teachers work together as partners, everyone benefits—especially the children.
• The teacher needs to understand how the child interacts at home—and vice versa.
• Parents need to know what and how their child is doing at school.
• To establish an early, positive link with your child’s teacher, have a telephone conference or in-person meeting before the school year begins to introduce yourself and set up a partnership.
• Keep communication going all year through regular conferences, school visits and written notes.
• If there are issues to clear up about school policy, if you are seeking ways to get involved in the classroom, or if your communications with the teacher have become difficult for some reason, then you should not hesitate to see the director.
• What can I do at home to support what my child is doing in school?
• Incorporate reading into your daily routine. You should also make sure your child sees you reading.
• Show interest in and support of your child’s school activities.
• Get involved in your child’s play.
• Make use of a variety of language experiences through everyday family life
• Mostly, just take time to talk with your children, and get engaged in their play.
• How do I know if my child is getting a good education and how do I evaluate that?
• Listening to your child, asking questions, and observing behavior is the best way to assess the quality of education. Does your child find school fun and satisfying—or is it boring and stressful? Is your child feeling confident and competent?
• Are their strengths as an individual learner being recognized?
• Is he or she being supported with patience and compassion in areas that need to develop?
• DO NOT rely on test scores or worksheets coming home as a tool for evaluating your kindergarten program. At the kindergarten level, test scores are neither valid nor reliable, and may give you a misleading picture of how your child is learning and how well the school stacks up against others.
• What kind of special training do kindergarten teachers have?
• Are trained for their work in early childhood courses at either the undergraduate college or graduate school level. Many are trained to teach other grades as well.
• There is one characteristic that most kindergarten teachers share: a real love of children.
• It is the combination of professional skills, experience and real love that typically turns the kindergarten experience into a joyous one for children.
• Are all kids ready for first grade after a year in kindergarten? How can I tell if my child is ready?
• Emphasize once more that there is a very wide range of abilities and normal developmental differences among children ages five and six.
• Not all kids will be equally ready for first grade after one year of kindergarten.
• Do not assume that your child is not ready just because he or she seems less mature in some areas than other kids.
November post 4
Hello everyone
(1) We will be starting a Reading Club next week (thank you Samantha’s mom for the excellent idea!) in order to help the children with their reading skills. If you would be willing to assist the children please let Vicky and Anouchka know and they will assist us in setting up a schedule. Since we do Snuggle Books Tuesdays and Thursdays and we have library one day a week (the weekday varies since it follows the 5 Day schedule), I would like our Reading Club to be on Mondays and Fridays if that is all right with everyone. I would propose a 20-minute commitment on each of those two days, and it might be easier if parents chose one week to do (as we do our book bags) in order to simplify the schedule. The time would be 10:30-11:00 a.m., a time which does not conflict with any of our other activities.
I have set a small table and two chairs outside the classroom for the child and parent and I will prepare a duotang that the parent would complete as follows:
Date:
Child’s name:
Grade: (JK/SK)
Name of Book:
Comments: (here you would write which words the child can read, improvements, sounds that are challenging, progress, etc.)
I will be using the same level as our Snuggle Books (i.e. early readers) including (my favourite!) BOB BOOKS (excellent leveled readers). If the child reading for/with you is an advanced reader I will provide you and your reading buddy with a more advanced level reader. An excellent way to help your reading buddy is to encourage them to follow the words with their finger as you/they are reading.
If you would like to volunteer to be a Parent Reading Buddy, please be kind enough to let Vicky or Anouchka know (and thank you as always, Vicky and Anouchka, for your wonderful help with scheduling).
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(2) Secondly, for graphing this Friday I need your help if possible: If you can, please bring in ten wrappers of your child’s Hallowe’en candy (small items, not chip bags) so that we can graph and chart favourites, how many of each kind were brought in, etc. – a fun math-based activity. I will prepare a bin to place the wrappers and we will sort them together.
(3) Letters will be going home soon regarding Report Cards and interviews. Please note that in first term the SKs only receive report cards, but all the children’s parents will have the opportunity to meet with me for an interview regarding their child’s progress.
Thank you everyone for your continued support and assistance!
Beverley
(1) We will be starting a Reading Club next week (thank you Samantha’s mom for the excellent idea!) in order to help the children with their reading skills. If you would be willing to assist the children please let Vicky and Anouchka know and they will assist us in setting up a schedule. Since we do Snuggle Books Tuesdays and Thursdays and we have library one day a week (the weekday varies since it follows the 5 Day schedule), I would like our Reading Club to be on Mondays and Fridays if that is all right with everyone. I would propose a 20-minute commitment on each of those two days, and it might be easier if parents chose one week to do (as we do our book bags) in order to simplify the schedule. The time would be 10:30-11:00 a.m., a time which does not conflict with any of our other activities.
I have set a small table and two chairs outside the classroom for the child and parent and I will prepare a duotang that the parent would complete as follows:
Date:
Child’s name:
Grade: (JK/SK)
Name of Book:
Comments: (here you would write which words the child can read, improvements, sounds that are challenging, progress, etc.)
I will be using the same level as our Snuggle Books (i.e. early readers) including (my favourite!) BOB BOOKS (excellent leveled readers). If the child reading for/with you is an advanced reader I will provide you and your reading buddy with a more advanced level reader. An excellent way to help your reading buddy is to encourage them to follow the words with their finger as you/they are reading.
If you would like to volunteer to be a Parent Reading Buddy, please be kind enough to let Vicky or Anouchka know (and thank you as always, Vicky and Anouchka, for your wonderful help with scheduling).
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(2) Secondly, for graphing this Friday I need your help if possible: If you can, please bring in ten wrappers of your child’s Hallowe’en candy (small items, not chip bags) so that we can graph and chart favourites, how many of each kind were brought in, etc. – a fun math-based activity. I will prepare a bin to place the wrappers and we will sort them together.
(3) Letters will be going home soon regarding Report Cards and interviews. Please note that in first term the SKs only receive report cards, but all the children’s parents will have the opportunity to meet with me for an interview regarding their child’s progress.
Thank you everyone for your continued support and assistance!
Beverley
November post 3
One more thing to add to our calendars – our Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place with the entire school in the gym on Wednesday, November 11 at approximately 10:45 a.m. Two children from each class will present a wreath (that we will all make together in class) and the children will complete the sentence “Peace means…” (to be discussed in class beforehand). I will choose the children from my class by lottery (picking two names out of a hat- one boy and one girl).
The new November/December Snack and Mystery Bag schedules are posted at the classroom entrance. If your child has a birthday in November or December their snack day will be on their birthday just in case you wanted to bring in (nut-free) cupcakes or treats.
Thank you!
Beverley
The new November/December Snack and Mystery Bag schedules are posted at the classroom entrance. If your child has a birthday in November or December their snack day will be on their birthday just in case you wanted to bring in (nut-free) cupcakes or treats.
Thank you!
Beverley
November post 2
Blending
Blending is the process of saying the individual sounds in a word and then running them together to make the word. For instance sounding out d-o-g and making dog. It is a technique every child will need to learn, and it improves with practice. To start with you should sound out the word and see if a child can hear it, giving the answer if necessary. Some children take longer than others to hear this. The sounds must be said quickly to hear the word. It is easier if the first sound is said slightly louder. Try little and often with words like b-u-s, t-o-p, c-a-t and h-e-n. There are lists of suitable words in The Phonics Handbook and the Jolly Phonics Word Book.
Remember that some sounds (digraphs) are represented by two letters, such as sh. Children should sound out the digraph (sh), not the individual letters (s-h). With practice they will be able to blend the digraph as one sound in a word. So, a word like rain should be sounded out r-ai-n, and feet as f-ee-t. This is difficult to begin with and takes practice. The Jolly Phonics Regular Word Blending Cards can be used in class to improve this skill.
You will find it helpful to be able to distinguish between a blend (such as st) and a digraph (such as sh). In a blend the two sounds, s and t can each be heard. In a digraph this is not so. Compare mishap (where both the s and h are sounded) and midship (which has the quite separate sh sound). When sounding out a blend, encourage children to say the two sounds as one unit, so fl-a-g not f-l-a-g. This will lead to greater fluency when reading.
Some words in English have an irregular spelling and cannot be read by blending, such as said, was and one. Unfortunately, many of these are common words. The irregular parts have to be remembered. These are called the 'tricky words'.
Identifying Sounds in Words
The easiest way to know how to spell a word is to listen for the sounds in that word. Even with the tricky words an understanding of letter sounds can help.
Start by having your child listen for the first sound in a word. Games like I-Spy are ideal for this. Next try listening for the end sounds, as the middle sound of a word is the hardest to hear.
Begin with simple three letter words such as cat or hot. A good idea is to say a word and tap out the sounds. Three taps means three sounds. Say each sound as you tap. Take care with digraphs. The word fish, for instance, has four letters but only three sounds, f-i-sh.
The Jiglets help identify the sounds in words. Rhyming games, poems and the Jolly Jingles also help tune the ears to the sounds in words. Other games to play are:
a) Add a sound: what do I get if I add a p to the beginning of ink? Answer: pink. Other examples are m-ice, b-us, etc.
b) Take away a sound: what do I get if I take away p from pink? Answer: ink. Other examples as above, and f-lap, s-lip, c-rib, d-rag, p-ant, m-end, s-top, b-end, s-t-rip, etc.
Spelling the Tricky Words
There are several ways of learning tricky spellings:
1) Look, Cover, Write and Check. Look at the word to see which bit is tricky. Ask the child to try writing the word in the air saying the letters. Cover the word over and see if the child can write it correctly. Check to make sure.
2) Say it as it sounds. Say the word so each sound is heard. For instance, the word was is said as 'wass', to rhyme with mass, the word Monday is said as 'Mon-day'.
3) Mnemonics. The initial letter of each word in a saying gives the correct spelling of a word. For instance, laugh - Laugh At Ugly Goat's Hair.
4) Using joined-up writing also improves spelling.
The Actions
s Weave hand in an s shape, like a snake, and say ssssss
a Wiggle fingers above elbow as if ants crawling on you and say a, a, a.
t Turn head from side to side as if watching tennis and say t, t, t.
i Pretend to be a mouse by wriggling fingers at end of nose and squeak i, i, i.
p Pretend to puff out candles and say p, p, p.
n Make a noise, as if you are a plane - hold arms out and say nnnnnn.
c k Raise hands and snap fingers as if playing castanets and say ck, ck, ck.
e Pretend to tap an egg on the side of a pan and crack it into the pan, saying eh, eh, eh.
h Hold hand in front of mouth panting as if you are out of breath and say h, h, h.
r Pretend to be a puppy holding a piece of rag, shaking head from side to side, and say rrrrrr.
m Rub tummy as if seeing tasty food and say mmmmmm.
d Beat hands up and down as if playing a drum and say d, d, d.
g Spiral hand down, as if water going down the drain, and say g, g, g.
o Pretend to turn light switch on and off and say o, o; o, o
u Pretend to be putting up an umbrella and say u, u, u.
l Pretend to lick a lollipop and say l l l l l l.
f Let hands gently come together as if toy fish deflating, and say f f f f f f.
b Pretend to hit a ball with a bat and say b, b, b.
ai Cup hand over ear and say ai, ai, ai.
j Pretend to wobble on a plate and say j, j, j.
oa Bring hand over mouth as if you have done something wrong and say oh!
ie Stand to attention and salute, saying ie ie.
ee or Put hands on head as if ears on a donkey and say eeyore, eeyore.
z Put arms out at sides and pretend to be a bee, saying zzzzzz.
w Blow on to open hand, as if you are the wind, and say wh, wh, wh.
ng Imagine you are a weightlifter, and pretend to lift a heavy weight above your head, saying ng...
v Pretend to be holding the steering wheel of a van and say vvvvvv.
oo oo Move head back and forth as if it is the cuckoo in a cuckoo clock,
saying u, oo; u, oo. (Little and long oo.)
y Pretend to be eating a yogurt and say y, y, y.
x Pretend to take an x-ray of someone with an x-ray gun and say ks, ks, ks.
ch Move arms at sides as if you are a train and say ch, ch, ch.
sh Place index finger over lips and say shshsh.
th th Pretend to be naughty clowns and stick out tongue a little for the th,
and further for the th sound (this and thumb).
qu Make a duck's beak with your hands and say qu, qu, qu.
ou Pretend your finger is a needle and prick thumb saying ou, ou, ou.
oi Cup hands around mouth and shout to another boat saying oi! ship ahoy!
ue Point to people around you and say you, you, you.
er Roll hands over each other like a mixer and say ererer.
ar Open mouth wide and say ah. Flap hands as if a seal,
and say ar, ar, ar. (US English)
Blending is the process of saying the individual sounds in a word and then running them together to make the word. For instance sounding out d-o-g and making dog. It is a technique every child will need to learn, and it improves with practice. To start with you should sound out the word and see if a child can hear it, giving the answer if necessary. Some children take longer than others to hear this. The sounds must be said quickly to hear the word. It is easier if the first sound is said slightly louder. Try little and often with words like b-u-s, t-o-p, c-a-t and h-e-n. There are lists of suitable words in The Phonics Handbook and the Jolly Phonics Word Book.
Remember that some sounds (digraphs) are represented by two letters, such as sh. Children should sound out the digraph (sh), not the individual letters (s-h). With practice they will be able to blend the digraph as one sound in a word. So, a word like rain should be sounded out r-ai-n, and feet as f-ee-t. This is difficult to begin with and takes practice. The Jolly Phonics Regular Word Blending Cards can be used in class to improve this skill.
You will find it helpful to be able to distinguish between a blend (such as st) and a digraph (such as sh). In a blend the two sounds, s and t can each be heard. In a digraph this is not so. Compare mishap (where both the s and h are sounded) and midship (which has the quite separate sh sound). When sounding out a blend, encourage children to say the two sounds as one unit, so fl-a-g not f-l-a-g. This will lead to greater fluency when reading.
Some words in English have an irregular spelling and cannot be read by blending, such as said, was and one. Unfortunately, many of these are common words. The irregular parts have to be remembered. These are called the 'tricky words'.
Identifying Sounds in Words
The easiest way to know how to spell a word is to listen for the sounds in that word. Even with the tricky words an understanding of letter sounds can help.
Start by having your child listen for the first sound in a word. Games like I-Spy are ideal for this. Next try listening for the end sounds, as the middle sound of a word is the hardest to hear.
Begin with simple three letter words such as cat or hot. A good idea is to say a word and tap out the sounds. Three taps means three sounds. Say each sound as you tap. Take care with digraphs. The word fish, for instance, has four letters but only three sounds, f-i-sh.
The Jiglets help identify the sounds in words. Rhyming games, poems and the Jolly Jingles also help tune the ears to the sounds in words. Other games to play are:
a) Add a sound: what do I get if I add a p to the beginning of ink? Answer: pink. Other examples are m-ice, b-us, etc.
b) Take away a sound: what do I get if I take away p from pink? Answer: ink. Other examples as above, and f-lap, s-lip, c-rib, d-rag, p-ant, m-end, s-top, b-end, s-t-rip, etc.
Spelling the Tricky Words
There are several ways of learning tricky spellings:
1) Look, Cover, Write and Check. Look at the word to see which bit is tricky. Ask the child to try writing the word in the air saying the letters. Cover the word over and see if the child can write it correctly. Check to make sure.
2) Say it as it sounds. Say the word so each sound is heard. For instance, the word was is said as 'wass', to rhyme with mass, the word Monday is said as 'Mon-day'.
3) Mnemonics. The initial letter of each word in a saying gives the correct spelling of a word. For instance, laugh - Laugh At Ugly Goat's Hair.
4) Using joined-up writing also improves spelling.
The Actions
s Weave hand in an s shape, like a snake, and say ssssss
a Wiggle fingers above elbow as if ants crawling on you and say a, a, a.
t Turn head from side to side as if watching tennis and say t, t, t.
i Pretend to be a mouse by wriggling fingers at end of nose and squeak i, i, i.
p Pretend to puff out candles and say p, p, p.
n Make a noise, as if you are a plane - hold arms out and say nnnnnn.
c k Raise hands and snap fingers as if playing castanets and say ck, ck, ck.
e Pretend to tap an egg on the side of a pan and crack it into the pan, saying eh, eh, eh.
h Hold hand in front of mouth panting as if you are out of breath and say h, h, h.
r Pretend to be a puppy holding a piece of rag, shaking head from side to side, and say rrrrrr.
m Rub tummy as if seeing tasty food and say mmmmmm.
d Beat hands up and down as if playing a drum and say d, d, d.
g Spiral hand down, as if water going down the drain, and say g, g, g.
o Pretend to turn light switch on and off and say o, o; o, o
u Pretend to be putting up an umbrella and say u, u, u.
l Pretend to lick a lollipop and say l l l l l l.
f Let hands gently come together as if toy fish deflating, and say f f f f f f.
b Pretend to hit a ball with a bat and say b, b, b.
ai Cup hand over ear and say ai, ai, ai.
j Pretend to wobble on a plate and say j, j, j.
oa Bring hand over mouth as if you have done something wrong and say oh!
ie Stand to attention and salute, saying ie ie.
ee or Put hands on head as if ears on a donkey and say eeyore, eeyore.
z Put arms out at sides and pretend to be a bee, saying zzzzzz.
w Blow on to open hand, as if you are the wind, and say wh, wh, wh.
ng Imagine you are a weightlifter, and pretend to lift a heavy weight above your head, saying ng...
v Pretend to be holding the steering wheel of a van and say vvvvvv.
oo oo Move head back and forth as if it is the cuckoo in a cuckoo clock,
saying u, oo; u, oo. (Little and long oo.)
y Pretend to be eating a yogurt and say y, y, y.
x Pretend to take an x-ray of someone with an x-ray gun and say ks, ks, ks.
ch Move arms at sides as if you are a train and say ch, ch, ch.
sh Place index finger over lips and say shshsh.
th th Pretend to be naughty clowns and stick out tongue a little for the th,
and further for the th sound (this and thumb).
qu Make a duck's beak with your hands and say qu, qu, qu.
ou Pretend your finger is a needle and prick thumb saying ou, ou, ou.
oi Cup hands around mouth and shout to another boat saying oi! ship ahoy!
ue Point to people around you and say you, you, you.
er Roll hands over each other like a mixer and say ererer.
ar Open mouth wide and say ah. Flap hands as if a seal,
and say ar, ar, ar. (US English)
November post 1
Hello everyone
Did anyone happen to find a pink costume slipper in their large TDSB bags today? If you did, it belongs to Samantha Gupta and is part of her Hallowe’en costume.
Thank you very much to everyone who helped with the Hallowe’en Party and Parade this morning! The weather cooperated and I think the children had a fun and exciting time. A special thank you to Lisa Rankin, Vicky Giancos, Julia Fuller, and Anouchka Freybe for their help with the party and to all those parents who brought loot bags and food items for our party. Lucky children! Thank you as well to Josie Leal who did the TDSB and snuggle book bags this week.
Next week we will be continuing with our phonics booklets and doing the “a” sound. We will also be carving our pumpkin (the large “Mr. Pumpkinhead” pumpkin in the classroom), weighing it, counting the seeds and ribs, measuring the height and circumference, and charting our results. We will also be continuing our patterning and sequencing practice and continuing with assessment (numbers, letters and sounds) in preparation for report cards (SK only first term). Our songs will be Phonics based as we continue the Jolly Phonics Program (see below). The Kindergarten teachers all do one sound a week. We appreciate that some children are just learning their ABCs and 123s and others are reading at advanced levels and continue to encourage you to read daily with your children have them read to you if possible. The children are almost finished their “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” booklets and will bring those home next week. Next week they will also bring home any Hallowe’en painting/clay crafts that have dried over the weekend.
Have a wonderful and safe Hallowe’en and weekend,
Beverley
JOLLY PHONICS:
In Jolly Phonics the 42 main sounds of English are taught, not just the alphabet. The sounds are in seven groups. Some sounds are written with two letters, such as ee and or. For example, oo and th can each make two different sounds, as in book and moon, that and three. To distinguish between the two sounds, these digraphs are represented in two forms. This is shown below.
Each sound has an action which helps children remember the letter(s) that represent it. As a child progresses you can point to the letters and see how quickly they can do the action and say the sound. As a child becomes more confident, the actions are no longer necessary.
Children learn each letter by its sound, not its name. For instance, the letter a should be called a (as in ant) not ai (as in aim). Similarly, the letter n should be nn (as in net), not en. This will help in blending. The names of each letter can follow later.
The letters have not been introduced in alphabetical order. The first group (s, a, t, i, p, n) has been chosen because they make more simple three-letter words than any other six letters. The letters b and d are introduced in different groups to avoid confusion.
Sounds that have more than one way of being written are initially taught in one form only. For example, the sound ai (rain) is taught first, and then the alternatives a-e (gate) and ay (day) follow later.
I hope this helps you understand the program. B.
Did anyone happen to find a pink costume slipper in their large TDSB bags today? If you did, it belongs to Samantha Gupta and is part of her Hallowe’en costume.
Thank you very much to everyone who helped with the Hallowe’en Party and Parade this morning! The weather cooperated and I think the children had a fun and exciting time. A special thank you to Lisa Rankin, Vicky Giancos, Julia Fuller, and Anouchka Freybe for their help with the party and to all those parents who brought loot bags and food items for our party. Lucky children! Thank you as well to Josie Leal who did the TDSB and snuggle book bags this week.
Next week we will be continuing with our phonics booklets and doing the “a” sound. We will also be carving our pumpkin (the large “Mr. Pumpkinhead” pumpkin in the classroom), weighing it, counting the seeds and ribs, measuring the height and circumference, and charting our results. We will also be continuing our patterning and sequencing practice and continuing with assessment (numbers, letters and sounds) in preparation for report cards (SK only first term). Our songs will be Phonics based as we continue the Jolly Phonics Program (see below). The Kindergarten teachers all do one sound a week. We appreciate that some children are just learning their ABCs and 123s and others are reading at advanced levels and continue to encourage you to read daily with your children have them read to you if possible. The children are almost finished their “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” booklets and will bring those home next week. Next week they will also bring home any Hallowe’en painting/clay crafts that have dried over the weekend.
Have a wonderful and safe Hallowe’en and weekend,
Beverley
JOLLY PHONICS:
In Jolly Phonics the 42 main sounds of English are taught, not just the alphabet. The sounds are in seven groups. Some sounds are written with two letters, such as ee and or. For example, oo and th can each make two different sounds, as in book and moon, that and three. To distinguish between the two sounds, these digraphs are represented in two forms. This is shown below.
Each sound has an action which helps children remember the letter(s) that represent it. As a child progresses you can point to the letters and see how quickly they can do the action and say the sound. As a child becomes more confident, the actions are no longer necessary.
Children learn each letter by its sound, not its name. For instance, the letter a should be called a (as in ant) not ai (as in aim). Similarly, the letter n should be nn (as in net), not en. This will help in blending. The names of each letter can follow later.
The letters have not been introduced in alphabetical order. The first group (s, a, t, i, p, n) has been chosen because they make more simple three-letter words than any other six letters. The letters b and d are introduced in different groups to avoid confusion.
Sounds that have more than one way of being written are initially taught in one form only. For example, the sound ai (rain) is taught first, and then the alternatives a-e (gate) and ay (day) follow later.
I hope this helps you understand the program. B.
October post 10
Hello everyone just a reminder that PHOTO RETAKE DAY is Thursday, NOVEMBER 5th. If your child was absent on Photo Day or if you would like your child’s photo redone please contact the office (416-394-7890) to enquire as to when the photos will be taken (i.e. morning or afternoon). The usual procedure is that children will be called down to the gym for their retakes on that day.
I am completing November and December’s Snack and Mystery Bag Schedules and they will be posted by Friday.
Dr. Mehta – no need to bring in snack on Friday for Sia and her classmates (which you were scheduled for); it is our Hallowe’en Party and I think there will be plenty of snacks! I will schedule you for the following week.
Thank you everyone,
Beverley
I am completing November and December’s Snack and Mystery Bag Schedules and they will be posted by Friday.
Dr. Mehta – no need to bring in snack on Friday for Sia and her classmates (which you were scheduled for); it is our Hallowe’en Party and I think there will be plenty of snacks! I will schedule you for the following week.
Thank you everyone,
Beverley
October post 9
Hello Everyone
Since I anticipate a lot of our parents attending the Hallowe’en Parade on Friday (which takes place outside, directly after morning announcements), I would like to change the start time of our Hallowe’en Party from 11:00 a.m. to 9:30-10:30 a.m. (starting directly after the Parade). That way parents who are assisting with the party don’t have to make two trips to the school. I hope this is okay with everyone. I am organizing some crafts for the children to complete and take home during the party as well as Hallowe’en colouring and sticker books, so it should be a wonderful day for the kids. And I think we’re all glad that Hallowe’en is on a Saturday this year!
Also, a reminder that photos and accompanying cheques are due. Thank you to everyone for remembering to return the Art Cards.
The childrens’ painted Family Trees with their photos are on display on our hall bulletin board, as well as a pumpkin craft they have done.
Also a reminder of the Sharing Assembly tomorrow morning after announcements.
Sincerely,
Beverley
Since I anticipate a lot of our parents attending the Hallowe’en Parade on Friday (which takes place outside, directly after morning announcements), I would like to change the start time of our Hallowe’en Party from 11:00 a.m. to 9:30-10:30 a.m. (starting directly after the Parade). That way parents who are assisting with the party don’t have to make two trips to the school. I hope this is okay with everyone. I am organizing some crafts for the children to complete and take home during the party as well as Hallowe’en colouring and sticker books, so it should be a wonderful day for the kids. And I think we’re all glad that Hallowe’en is on a Saturday this year!
Also, a reminder that photos and accompanying cheques are due. Thank you to everyone for remembering to return the Art Cards.
The childrens’ painted Family Trees with their photos are on display on our hall bulletin board, as well as a pumpkin craft they have done.
Also a reminder of the Sharing Assembly tomorrow morning after announcements.
Sincerely,
Beverley
October post 8
Hello everyone
This is just a friendly reminder to please have your children take out their white TDSB bags and Snuggle Book bags and put them in the appropriate bin by the classroom entrance each morning. It would be easiest if the children had the bags and books removed from their backpacks while they are in line outside, ready to put in the appropriate bins when they enter the classroom.
On Tuesday’s book day almost all the children had done this, but today, Thursday, a lot of the white TDSB bags and Snuggle books were still in the backpacks and it is very time-consuming for me/my parent helpers to look in each backpack for missing items etc.
Thank you very much for your assistance with this important morning routine.
In a nutshell:
Wednesdays and Fridays upon entering the classroom – before entering the classroom, take white TDSB bag and Snuggle Book bag out of backpack, put in appropriate bin at entrance. C’est tout!
One more note – I have switched the SK Snuggle Book readers to an easier set. I recently discovered a treasure trove of leveled readers in our book storage room! Don’t worry if your child can’t read all the words, but if they can, you can ask comprehension questions as well. If your child is an advanced reader, encourage him/her to take books from the library that s/he can read to you at home. The more the better!
Thanks very much,
Beverley
This is just a friendly reminder to please have your children take out their white TDSB bags and Snuggle Book bags and put them in the appropriate bin by the classroom entrance each morning. It would be easiest if the children had the bags and books removed from their backpacks while they are in line outside, ready to put in the appropriate bins when they enter the classroom.
On Tuesday’s book day almost all the children had done this, but today, Thursday, a lot of the white TDSB bags and Snuggle books were still in the backpacks and it is very time-consuming for me/my parent helpers to look in each backpack for missing items etc.
Thank you very much for your assistance with this important morning routine.
In a nutshell:
Wednesdays and Fridays upon entering the classroom – before entering the classroom, take white TDSB bag and Snuggle Book bag out of backpack, put in appropriate bin at entrance. C’est tout!
One more note – I have switched the SK Snuggle Book readers to an easier set. I recently discovered a treasure trove of leveled readers in our book storage room! Don’t worry if your child can’t read all the words, but if they can, you can ask comprehension questions as well. If your child is an advanced reader, encourage him/her to take books from the library that s/he can read to you at home. The more the better!
Thanks very much,
Beverley
October post 7
Hello Everyone
This is just a reminder to return your art cards as soon as possible (with your cheques payable to LKS) – Friday is preferable.
Also, your children’s photos are in! They will be in tomorrow’s white TDSB bags and are due back (with payment) on October 26th.
Snuggle Books and TDSB bags are due by tomorrow as well.
A small note to parents who kindly help me with the white TDSB bags: please include all the items in the bags that are in the blue basket (such as letters home, etc.), not just the Snuggle Books. Several items, including the Snuggle Books, do go home each week in the TDSB bags and Tuesday and Thursday are our special days for that. Thank you!
The children are almost all finished their Number Books and they will go home with them when they are done. We have also completed patterning (elementary math) exercises related to Hallowe’en themes and will continue to do this throughout the year. Encourage your children to find patterns around them – they’re everywhere!
We have also almost completed our “Brown Bear” reading booklets and we will be starting our Phonics next week – learning one new sound a week, and reinforcing this sound with accompanying worksheets which will go in your child’s Phonics Folder.
We are learning two Hallowe’en Songs (“Pumpkin, Pumpkin” and “Lack-o-Lantern”) and the children will complete a little art project on pumpkins tomorrow. Some of the children are just learning how to use scissors so if you have small children’s safety scissors I encourage you to help your child with this important motor skill by giving them little things to cut out (pictures from flyers, magazines, etc.)
That’s our news for today! Don’t forget that our first Sharing Assembly is October 27 (I will notify those parents whose children will be receiving an award this month in advance so that they can try to plan to attend), and our Hallowe’en Parade and Party are October 30.
Thank you as always to my parent volunteers who help out so much! The children love to have their parents in their school!
Have a nice evening,
Beverley
This is just a reminder to return your art cards as soon as possible (with your cheques payable to LKS) – Friday is preferable.
Also, your children’s photos are in! They will be in tomorrow’s white TDSB bags and are due back (with payment) on October 26th.
Snuggle Books and TDSB bags are due by tomorrow as well.
A small note to parents who kindly help me with the white TDSB bags: please include all the items in the bags that are in the blue basket (such as letters home, etc.), not just the Snuggle Books. Several items, including the Snuggle Books, do go home each week in the TDSB bags and Tuesday and Thursday are our special days for that. Thank you!
The children are almost all finished their Number Books and they will go home with them when they are done. We have also completed patterning (elementary math) exercises related to Hallowe’en themes and will continue to do this throughout the year. Encourage your children to find patterns around them – they’re everywhere!
We have also almost completed our “Brown Bear” reading booklets and we will be starting our Phonics next week – learning one new sound a week, and reinforcing this sound with accompanying worksheets which will go in your child’s Phonics Folder.
We are learning two Hallowe’en Songs (“Pumpkin, Pumpkin” and “Lack-o-Lantern”) and the children will complete a little art project on pumpkins tomorrow. Some of the children are just learning how to use scissors so if you have small children’s safety scissors I encourage you to help your child with this important motor skill by giving them little things to cut out (pictures from flyers, magazines, etc.)
That’s our news for today! Don’t forget that our first Sharing Assembly is October 27 (I will notify those parents whose children will be receiving an award this month in advance so that they can try to plan to attend), and our Hallowe’en Parade and Party are October 30.
Thank you as always to my parent volunteers who help out so much! The children love to have their parents in their school!
Have a nice evening,
Beverley
October post 6
The Sharing Assembly is a small assembly that takes place once a month in the cafeteria when Primary teachers give awards to children and the class as a whole performs a short poem or song. I will give a “heads up” to parents whose children will be receiving awards in our class so they can be sure to attend if they can (to take photos etc. ).
Here are the dates of the Sharing Assemblies:
October 27
November 20
January 22
February 26
March 26
April 23
May 28
June 11
Here are the dates of the Sharing Assemblies:
October 27
November 20
January 22
February 26
March 26
April 23
May 28
June 11
October post 5
Hello everyone
Just a reminder that the Pizza Forms and money are due by Friday.
When you have filled out the Acorn Art Card Information Sheet that is attached to your child’s artwork, please return the art and information (attached – do not detach) to me. Cheques are payable to LKS.
Our first Sharing Assembly will be on October 27. The children in my class will be performing a song and story about pumpkins.
Library books are due tomorrow (library day).
A new set of Snuggle Books go home tomorrow and should be returned the next day if possible (Monday is ok of course – as long as they are returned by Tuesday which is our next snuggle book day). All the JKs will be rotating through one set of readers at a time, as will the SKs (a more challenging set). If your child is an exceptionally strong reader already (as are some of them) I will send home more challenging readers as well. Please note that each Kindergarten teacher on our JK/SK team does the following: the children work through sets of readers; programs are not individualized to children unless they are exceptionally strong readers. Please continue to encourage your child to sound out words as we do in class. Pointing at words is also very helpful, when you are reading to your child, or when your child is reading on his/her own or to you.
October 20 is pajama day!
I am very pleased to see some of the children using our Thanksgiving, Autumn and Hallowe’en words in their craft projects and at the writing table. Wonderful!
There is a marked improvement in how your children write their names which is also excellent. Each month we complete a sheet with their name and a drawing of themselves. At the end of the year I will collate them and send them home in a booklet.
That’s our news for today!
Sincerely,
Beverley
Just a reminder that the Pizza Forms and money are due by Friday.
When you have filled out the Acorn Art Card Information Sheet that is attached to your child’s artwork, please return the art and information (attached – do not detach) to me. Cheques are payable to LKS.
Our first Sharing Assembly will be on October 27. The children in my class will be performing a song and story about pumpkins.
Library books are due tomorrow (library day).
A new set of Snuggle Books go home tomorrow and should be returned the next day if possible (Monday is ok of course – as long as they are returned by Tuesday which is our next snuggle book day). All the JKs will be rotating through one set of readers at a time, as will the SKs (a more challenging set). If your child is an exceptionally strong reader already (as are some of them) I will send home more challenging readers as well. Please note that each Kindergarten teacher on our JK/SK team does the following: the children work through sets of readers; programs are not individualized to children unless they are exceptionally strong readers. Please continue to encourage your child to sound out words as we do in class. Pointing at words is also very helpful, when you are reading to your child, or when your child is reading on his/her own or to you.
October 20 is pajama day!
I am very pleased to see some of the children using our Thanksgiving, Autumn and Hallowe’en words in their craft projects and at the writing table. Wonderful!
There is a marked improvement in how your children write their names which is also excellent. Each month we complete a sheet with their name and a drawing of themselves. At the end of the year I will collate them and send them home in a booklet.
That’s our news for today!
Sincerely,
Beverley
October post 4
Hello everyone and I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend.
Today in your child’s white TDSB bag there was a form for you to fill out regarding their pizza lunch day in June. My apologies for not sending them home earlier! I have spoken with Mrs. Seitz and Mrs. MacPherson and they have received only a few forms back and will submit them when all the forms are in, which they hope will be by the end of the week.
Please return the completed forms with money for the lunch by this Friday at the latest and I will forward them to our Pizza Lunch Coordinator.
Thank you very much to the parent volunteers who helped out with the Art Cards today. The children did a lovely job and they are very proud of their work.
Thank you as well to the parents who are helping out with the TDSB bags and snuggle books. What a great help that is!
In the classroom we have started patterning activities combined with Hallowe’en-themed activities, which the children always love. Their number and alphabet books are almost done and we are still working on our “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” booklets and will send them home when they are complete.
Tomorrow was to be Jonathan Odorico’s Special Day and snack day but he has been attending Montessori since the beginning of the school year so I will bring snack for tomorrow. Our Special person will be John Yeom (in absentia) whose mom is ill and who is still in Korea with her and his family. We hope they return soon and in good health. Our thoughts are with them.
Sincerely,
Beverley
Today in your child’s white TDSB bag there was a form for you to fill out regarding their pizza lunch day in June. My apologies for not sending them home earlier! I have spoken with Mrs. Seitz and Mrs. MacPherson and they have received only a few forms back and will submit them when all the forms are in, which they hope will be by the end of the week.
Please return the completed forms with money for the lunch by this Friday at the latest and I will forward them to our Pizza Lunch Coordinator.
Thank you very much to the parent volunteers who helped out with the Art Cards today. The children did a lovely job and they are very proud of their work.
Thank you as well to the parents who are helping out with the TDSB bags and snuggle books. What a great help that is!
In the classroom we have started patterning activities combined with Hallowe’en-themed activities, which the children always love. Their number and alphabet books are almost done and we are still working on our “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” booklets and will send them home when they are complete.
Tomorrow was to be Jonathan Odorico’s Special Day and snack day but he has been attending Montessori since the beginning of the school year so I will bring snack for tomorrow. Our Special person will be John Yeom (in absentia) whose mom is ill and who is still in Korea with her and his family. We hope they return soon and in good health. Our thoughts are with them.
Sincerely,
Beverley
October post 3
Hello everyone
With Anouchka and Vicky’s help scheduling, I would truly appreciate some help on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the White TDSB Bags and snuggle books. I didn’t realize that I’m the only Kindergarten teacher that didn’t have help with this task (it takes about 20 minutes) and with curriculum and all the other little tasks in my teaching day help with this would be wonderful and most appreciated!
I spoke with Ellen Raymond and I will be following what she does; on Snuggle Book days (Tuesdays and Thursdays), I would need one parent to come in on both those days to help fill the white TDSB bags and hang them on the children’s coat hangers ready to go home. In the bags would be letters home, artwork, snuggle books, writing booklets the children have finished, letters from the office, forms etc.
What would work very well would be for one parent to take turns being the “TDSB white bag volunteer” for one week (meaning Tuesdays and Thursdays). The parent would start at 9 a.m. when dropping his/her child off, do the bags (I will have everything ready for them), and be done by 9:20-9:30 at the latest.
Thank you so much. I would prefer to have a different family sign up each week so they can also take a peek into their child’s kindergarten world. Your children love it when you are there and can meet their friends and see what they do in class! They also always feel especially proud when their parents are in school.
If you are able to volunteer please let Vicky and Anouchka know the week you are available and they will add it to our calendar.
.
Take care,
Beverley
With Anouchka and Vicky’s help scheduling, I would truly appreciate some help on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the White TDSB Bags and snuggle books. I didn’t realize that I’m the only Kindergarten teacher that didn’t have help with this task (it takes about 20 minutes) and with curriculum and all the other little tasks in my teaching day help with this would be wonderful and most appreciated!
I spoke with Ellen Raymond and I will be following what she does; on Snuggle Book days (Tuesdays and Thursdays), I would need one parent to come in on both those days to help fill the white TDSB bags and hang them on the children’s coat hangers ready to go home. In the bags would be letters home, artwork, snuggle books, writing booklets the children have finished, letters from the office, forms etc.
What would work very well would be for one parent to take turns being the “TDSB white bag volunteer” for one week (meaning Tuesdays and Thursdays). The parent would start at 9 a.m. when dropping his/her child off, do the bags (I will have everything ready for them), and be done by 9:20-9:30 at the latest.
Thank you so much. I would prefer to have a different family sign up each week so they can also take a peek into their child’s kindergarten world. Your children love it when you are there and can meet their friends and see what they do in class! They also always feel especially proud when their parents are in school.
If you are able to volunteer please let Vicky and Anouchka know the week you are available and they will add it to our calendar.
.
Take care,
Beverley
October post 2
Hello everyone,
A letter will be going home tomorrow regarding the wonderful “art card” program offered by LKS and many other schools and I wanted to send you the URL as well. Thank you Vicky and Anouchka for your help in organizing our volunteers, and thank you volunteers! It means so much to the children when their parents are in the classroom to see them at work and play!
Our date for the Art Cards is October 13th, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. when the children don’t have other morning activities (such as IT or Library). I will prepare samples for each of the children’s tables to assist our volunteers.
The children are working hard on their Number Books and Letter Books and when they are complete I will be sending them home. We are also working on writing our names and I am already seeing some progress! Please continue to read with your children and encourage them to write their names on the crafts/artwork they do at home. Capital letters are easiest at first for little ones. Lower case letters are learned/recognized in tandem but primarily after upper case letters. If your child is an advanced reader (and some of the class’ children are) please continue to challenge your children with new readers. Mastermind (everyone’s favourite store!) has an excellent selection of supplementary workbooks and readers. Tomorrow, Thursday, is Mystery Bag Day and Snuggle Book Day (for bigger-sized books). Please return them by Friday (Monday at the latest).
Thank you everyone for providing healthy snacks and for remembering to return your child’s library books. Next week Library will be on Thursday, so today’s books are due by that day.
Tomorrow we are doing a Thanksgiving Craft which is a name card for your child to have at the dinner table.
Wishing everyone a wonderful and restful Thanksgiving weekend,
Beverley
A letter will be going home tomorrow regarding the wonderful “art card” program offered by LKS and many other schools and I wanted to send you the URL as well. Thank you Vicky and Anouchka for your help in organizing our volunteers, and thank you volunteers! It means so much to the children when their parents are in the classroom to see them at work and play!
Our date for the Art Cards is October 13th, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. when the children don’t have other morning activities (such as IT or Library). I will prepare samples for each of the children’s tables to assist our volunteers.
The children are working hard on their Number Books and Letter Books and when they are complete I will be sending them home. We are also working on writing our names and I am already seeing some progress! Please continue to read with your children and encourage them to write their names on the crafts/artwork they do at home. Capital letters are easiest at first for little ones. Lower case letters are learned/recognized in tandem but primarily after upper case letters. If your child is an advanced reader (and some of the class’ children are) please continue to challenge your children with new readers. Mastermind (everyone’s favourite store!) has an excellent selection of supplementary workbooks and readers. Tomorrow, Thursday, is Mystery Bag Day and Snuggle Book Day (for bigger-sized books). Please return them by Friday (Monday at the latest).
Thank you everyone for providing healthy snacks and for remembering to return your child’s library books. Next week Library will be on Thursday, so today’s books are due by that day.
Tomorrow we are doing a Thanksgiving Craft which is a name card for your child to have at the dinner table.
Wishing everyone a wonderful and restful Thanksgiving weekend,
Beverley
October post 1
Hello everyone and thank you again Vicky and Anouchka for your help!
We have started our “Snuggle Books” today and each child has come home with a different early reader in a zip lock bag with their name on it. I’ve started with the excellent collection of “Bob” books which I’ve found are terrific for young readers. Please read the book with your child and return it by Thursday, when s/he will take another reader home, due Friday (Monday at the latest). In order to take a new snuggle book home the children need to return the first one. We will continue with this system (a new book each Tuesday and Thursday) for the rest of the year. I will also get larger bags for larger readers that the children can pick themselves, but I wanted to focus on books they can read along with to start.
Our card-making activity will be October 13th, , when the children create special cards that are then printed and can be used as thank you cards, Holiday cards etc. If you would like your child to create a particular theme on his/her card please let them know (could be “Happy Birthday” “Thank you” “Happy Holidays” etc.) so we can assist them. Vicky and Anouchka are helping to coordinate volunteers for that day – thank you Vicky and Anouchka!!
Fall is here and the children are wearing jackets and coats in cooler weather. Please be kind enough to practice zipping/buttoning/unzipping/unbuttoning your child’s outdoor clothing. A good trick is to place the coat on the ground so that the tag is facing them, they crouch down and put their arms in the holes, and flip the jacket over their head. They love doing this and it’s a good trick if they have trouble getting their arms in their sleeves. Please also help them to turn their sleeves rightside out. Reversible coats are wonderful, too! Hoodies are easy for them to put on and big zippers are easier than little zippers. Our SKs will be helping the JKs as well . In order to save time, I will plan for their outdoor play time to be at the end of their morning, so that the children only have to get dressed once.
Take care,
Beverley
We have started our “Snuggle Books” today and each child has come home with a different early reader in a zip lock bag with their name on it. I’ve started with the excellent collection of “Bob” books which I’ve found are terrific for young readers. Please read the book with your child and return it by Thursday, when s/he will take another reader home, due Friday (Monday at the latest). In order to take a new snuggle book home the children need to return the first one. We will continue with this system (a new book each Tuesday and Thursday) for the rest of the year. I will also get larger bags for larger readers that the children can pick themselves, but I wanted to focus on books they can read along with to start.
Our card-making activity will be October 13th, , when the children create special cards that are then printed and can be used as thank you cards, Holiday cards etc. If you would like your child to create a particular theme on his/her card please let them know (could be “Happy Birthday” “Thank you” “Happy Holidays” etc.) so we can assist them. Vicky and Anouchka are helping to coordinate volunteers for that day – thank you Vicky and Anouchka!!
Fall is here and the children are wearing jackets and coats in cooler weather. Please be kind enough to practice zipping/buttoning/unzipping/unbuttoning your child’s outdoor clothing. A good trick is to place the coat on the ground so that the tag is facing them, they crouch down and put their arms in the holes, and flip the jacket over their head. They love doing this and it’s a good trick if they have trouble getting their arms in their sleeves. Please also help them to turn their sleeves rightside out. Reversible coats are wonderful, too! Hoodies are easy for them to put on and big zippers are easier than little zippers. Our SKs will be helping the JKs as well . In order to save time, I will plan for their outdoor play time to be at the end of their morning, so that the children only have to get dressed once.
Take care,
Beverley
September Newsletter
Hello everyone
This is just a reminder that the Terry Fox Walk is tomorrow, Thursday, October 1 at 9:15 a.m. Tomorrow calls for light showers and 12C so the children will need warm jackets and appropriate footwear.
Today was library day which is always a wonderful day for the children. Please be sure to return library books each week in the white library bin just inside the classroom entrance.
In class we have been working on fall themes and today the children did wonderful plasticine pictures which are displayed in the large bulletin board in the school hallway outside our class. We are working each day on Thanksgiving and fall-related songs and poems.
The children are also completing a work sheet each day to improve their writing skills. Some are booklets which, when completed, will be sent home, and some are individual sheets which are also filed and will be collated and sent home shortly so that you can see your child’s progress. I encourage you to do crafts and writing activities at home in order to help with their manual dexterity skills – colouring, cutting shapes, tracing, etc.
If you haven’t yet submitted your family tree photos please send them in as soon as possible; we will be painting our “Family Trees” shortly and then will add the photos.
Some of the art and literacy activities we will be doing will be following a theme of the well-known and wonderful children’s writers and illustrators Eric Carle, Barbara Reid, and Jann Brett.
www.eric-carle.com
www.janbrett.com
www.barbarareid.ca
The children will create artwork and work on writing booklets following the themes of these author’s works.
I am truly enjoying teaching your children and look forward to a wonderful October!
Sincerely,
Beverley Tyndall
This is just a reminder that the Terry Fox Walk is tomorrow, Thursday, October 1 at 9:15 a.m. Tomorrow calls for light showers and 12C so the children will need warm jackets and appropriate footwear.
Today was library day which is always a wonderful day for the children. Please be sure to return library books each week in the white library bin just inside the classroom entrance.
In class we have been working on fall themes and today the children did wonderful plasticine pictures which are displayed in the large bulletin board in the school hallway outside our class. We are working each day on Thanksgiving and fall-related songs and poems.
The children are also completing a work sheet each day to improve their writing skills. Some are booklets which, when completed, will be sent home, and some are individual sheets which are also filed and will be collated and sent home shortly so that you can see your child’s progress. I encourage you to do crafts and writing activities at home in order to help with their manual dexterity skills – colouring, cutting shapes, tracing, etc.
If you haven’t yet submitted your family tree photos please send them in as soon as possible; we will be painting our “Family Trees” shortly and then will add the photos.
Some of the art and literacy activities we will be doing will be following a theme of the well-known and wonderful children’s writers and illustrators Eric Carle, Barbara Reid, and Jann Brett.
www.eric-carle.com
www.janbrett.com
www.barbarareid.ca
The children will create artwork and work on writing booklets following the themes of these author’s works.
I am truly enjoying teaching your children and look forward to a wonderful October!
Sincerely,
Beverley Tyndall
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