Welcome back parents! Spring is here and we are a few months out from the end of the school year. While this time flies by, we have a lot to look forward to in the coming months. Caterpillars will be cared for in the classroom and we will get to ceremoniously release them when they become adult butterflies as is tradition at Greene Towne. We anticipate an egg delivery in May where children can experience the hatching of baby chicks. This is also the time of year when friendships blossom and deepen and work is often seen in pairs and small groups.

At the beginning of the year, it is normal for children to experience some hesitation in social situations, work choices, their own sense of independence and identity, and other interactions. With long breaks like Summer or Winter break, even the familiar can seem different and new. After nearly a whole year under foot, the children enter back with more confidence, revisit routines, and quickly get into the grooves of the classroom again.

Ms. Cara and I have observed this boost in our classroom’s social life day to day from the popularity of making story books together to passing out food that was carefully prepped and lending a helping hand. Partnering up can be more motivating on a task that may seem daunting. Collaboration is common with the Kindergarten group as they delve into deeper lessons and projects and our first and second years enjoy choosing work they can can do nearby each other for company.

Sharing has become a common language among the group as more children step up to present a show and tell, tell stories, share colored pencils and sharpeners, support each other in piecing together a big map puzzle, or just cleaning up a big spill.

Friends are part of the fabric of life. They help us learn, they reveal things about ourselves that we maybe didn’t perceive, they change and evolve. There are tough moments and there are silly moments and there are precious moments. All the moments and friendships are seen and accepted. They help us grow.

And let’s not forget the value and joy there is in solo time and independent work too! 🙂

Warmly,
Ms. Anne & Ms. Cara