How can we make our own blocks?
This week, we are continuing our exploration of blocks by experimenting with making our own blocks. At home, invite your child to share how they are making blocks using different materials. Are there similar materials at home? Join your child in making blocks. Plastic containers, empty food packages, and even pieces of cardboard and tape can become blocks with a little determination!
Small Groups Focus Areas:
📏 Math & Measurement: Capacity Fun
Our mathematicians are exploring how much different containers can hold! They will make predictions and compare amounts using measurement words like more, less, too much, too little, and the same.
Try it at home: Ask your child to compare two cups or bowls during bath time or snack time!
🎨 Art & Sight: Color Detectives
We are going on a classroom color hunt! Students will practice identifying and naming colors by searching for matching objects around our room.
Try it at home: Play "I Spy" using colors during your car ride or around the house (e.g., "I spy something green!").
📚 Reading & Print Concepts: Clap & Count the Words
To build strong reading foundations, we are learning that sentences are made up of individual words. We’ll be chanting, clapping, and patting along to sentences while practicing vocabulary like word, symbol, and label.
Try it at home: Point to words while reading a favorite storybook together and clap once for every word in a sentence!
🔬 Science: Living vs. Non-Living
Our young scientists are discovering what makes something alive! They will learn the characteristics of living things (like plants and animals) versus non-living objects (like rocks and toys) and practice sorting them into groups.
Try it at home: Ask your child if everyday items around the house or yard are living or non-living and why!
🔁 Math & Logic: Pattern Power
Patterns are everywhere! Students will learn to spot patterns in the world around them and practice creating their own. They'll also practice explaining their patterns out loud.
Try it at home: Make simple patterns at dinner with utensils or snacks (e.g., fork, spoon, fork, spoon) and ask your child what comes next!
📖 Author Study: Comparing Favorite Books
We are diving deeper into reading by looking at different books written by the same author! Students will compare the book covers, meet fun characters, and talk about the main ideas of the stories.
Try it at home: Pick two books by the same author from the library and compare the front covers together!
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER
Family game night can be a great way to get the family together. Each member can choose a game to play. As you play together, conversations will naturally emerge. Playing games together builds relationships and develops skills in turn taking, persistence, and good sportsmanship. Your local library might offer board games or card games that you can check out.