GOBBLE, GOBBLE

Thanksgiving is almost here and I have been thinking about all the wonderful things and people in my life that I am truly thankful for. 16 of which would be your children; they make me smile quite often. We have spent a good portion of  the last two weeks discussing what it is to be thankful and why it is important to express our gratitude. It's amazing to hear who and what is most important to them and why. Their reasoning is quite simple but poignant!
Ms. Morris and the children have spent a lot of time discussing the events of the very First Thanksgiving and everyone involved. The children made a beaded retelling bracelet that they brought home so they could share with you the story of Thanksgiving. Through reading many books and watching videos, we realized that we are more similar to the Pilgrims than we thought. The Littlest Pilgrim by Brandi Dougherty helped us make many text to self connections and by using a Venn diagram we were able to see the many ways in which we are quite similar. I'm glad to hear that most of the children have challenging chores to do, like chopping wood for the fireplace during the winter months. :)
Ms. Morris created many fun thanksgiving themed centers for the children to complete these last two weeks. The children wrote letters of gratitude to their friends, they listened to and read several stories that involved turkeys, and dictated to me the steps involved in cooking a turkey. Their "recipes" are appetizing in a different kind of way. However, the most exciting part of November is ALWAYS when your children first notice that they are reading...this continues to be my favorite part of kindergarten. I call it the "light bulb" moment and it is quite magical & exhilarating for all of us. Please continue to read with your children and allow them to shine at home, as they realize more and more that they are indeed reading.
Also, I want to thank you for "transporting" your children back to the 1950's era as we celebrated our 50th day of school. They were absolutely adorable to look at and watch as they learned how to do the hand-jive, the twist and the swim.
Ms. Peg, Ms. Morris and I would like to wish all of you a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and friends. Enjoy your quality time spent together.