Hei Outstanding Preschools Moms and Dads!
"Hei" is Finnish for Hello...We are studying Arctic places and animals. Finland is a pretty 'arctic-y" place, eh?Don't you just love winter? No...not a rhetorical question. Most of my students know I absolutely LOVE winter. I love the crispness of the cold air, the beauty of the sparkly snow when is first falls, and not to mention the fun of snowman building, snow ball fights, and of course catching those large snowflakes on your tongue as the fall from the heavens! Aren't we so blessed to live in area that experiences the richness of the 4 seasons?
With the winter comes some great learning themes. We currently are exploring all about the polar regions of the Earth. Lots of GREAT stuff coming from your precious little people. They are so smart and creative. We will be moving on to hibernating animals next week...one of my personal favorite themes.
Enrollment reminders:
Please make sure you give us your enrollment intentions as soon as possible. Remember that our preschool does not automatically enroll your current student. If you need to speak to me about the next "step-up" class for your child, please do not hesitate to see me and I help with your decision.Just some food for thought: When trying to decide on what class your child moves up to, please discern the following:
I am a big advocate of educating and nurturing the whole child; not only the intellectual but also the emotional & spiritual as well. I do not always feel that because a child is ____ age, they must go onto an expected level. Please consider the whole developmental picture such as: oral devlelopment, communication skill development, fine and gross motor, and emotional development just to name a few.
Inclement Weather Policy Reminder:
Please remember to tune into your local radio and television stations when we have bad weather. Our policy is the following:* When ST. FRANCIS Elementary cancels, the PRESCHOOL will be cancelled as well.
* When ST. FRANCIS Elementary has a 2 hr delay in the morning, MORNING Preschool
is cancelled however afternoon will still be in session.
A Thought From the Teacher...
I recently had a question from a few parents..."Why is my child crying at drop off all of a sudden?" I thought I would address this sometimes perplexing question.Crying at drop off is more than likely a separation issue. Separation anxiety, as it is termed, is seen more at the lower level preschool ages. (3-4 year olds) but can happen at the Pre-K and sometimes even the kindergarten level. This is not an issue that should cause panic for moms and dads. Here some ideas to help both parents and child:
* I do not recommend telling your child to stop crying or reprimand them for crying. Feelings are not right or wrong...they just are.
* Please do not drag out your goodbye. Keep it simple-- a kiss, a hug, and off you go.
* I do not recommend bringing your child home because they are crying at drop off. What I say to the children when they come in upset is something like this:
" I understand you want to be home with your mommy & dad. I'm sorry but it is important that you be here in school with all your friends to learn today. Your dad or mom will be here again to pick you up. Come with me and sit with your friend and play with this activity and let's have some fun."
* Remember to keep your emotions in check too. Children are surprisingly adept at pick up on what we grown-ups are feeling...even if we think we are hiding it:)
* Children tend to regress a bit after vacations, out with sickness or if something eventful is going on at home (for example: a birth of a sibling or special relatives leaving after a visit)
What You can Do...
* Have lots of patience;) Not easy but it will pay off in the end.* Your child may bring in a small security like a photo or stuffed animal. They eventually will put it in their cubby but it could be a good transitional tool.
* A goodbye routine that you follow each time. Children favor consistant routines.
* TRUST that we are your child's advocate. We are here because we love and care for them. We will give loving and consistant support. Trust that we know how to handle these situations.
Well, I hope this helps a bit. Please feel free to call or come on in if you have concerns or questions regarding this issue. We are here to help!
May your week continue to be blessed with the simple and joyful graces that the Lord gives to us all!
Yours in Christ,
Mrs. Burd and Mrs. Bloom
