September 11th, 2020

Tucker A

We accomplished a lot today in Tucker Room A! The children finished designing and gluing the "center" part of the new Message Center sign. They chose the objects they wanted to use, set them out in the shape of the letter and then carefully glued using the hot glue gun. Cannon worked on the C and the E, Nora made the N, Gigi designed the T and the E and Maren finished it off with R.  For a few friends, both new and returning, there was some trepidation about using the glue gun. Some children squeezed out the glue and had an adult place the pieces on the hot glue, some children did both steps. It depended on each child's comfort level.  As teachers we always strive to meet children where they are, but encourage them to have a go with new experiences, materials and tools. Afterward Gigi commented, "It was scary but I can do anything!"

The birthday committee was hard at work finishing Aida's birthday present. It turned out beautifully and the children think that Aida will really like it! Before they planted the plant the group observed the roots. Palmer noted, "The roots are really long!"  Dakota reflected, "The plant looks happy."  Next week we will celebrate a belated birthday for Aida. And the friends in Pod B will make Maren's birthday gift!

There was significant interest in lego building today. The dinosaurs were incorporated into the play as well. Palmer was very focused on building a sturdy house for his dinosaurs he said, "I'm gonna rebuild this part because it's a little not sturdier. My house needs to be more sturdy because it wasn't that sturdy in the first place."

Nora enjoyed exploring and representing plants with Maren. She said, "If you want a closer look (the roots etc) grab a magnifying glass."

Maren and Dakota also helped create Bingo Boards so that we can become familiar with everyone's symbols. The game is being made in conjunction with Pod B so that the children can stay connected and possibly even play together through the glass door. Both girls noticed the importance of taking their time and working carefully. Dakota noted, "Look, I be careful and get it in the right place." While cutting images out Maren commented, "I definitely don't want to cut the faces of my old friends."

Gigi and Nora had their first experiences painting at the easel today. Both started paintings and then after snack added more to their work.

Outside fun!

Tucker B

Tucker B was very busy today as well! Andy and Aida painted at the easel. Working side-by-side allowed them the opportunity to get to know each other better.
Aida engaged Andy by asking, "What color paint should I use?" 
Andy, "How about black?"
Aida, "I don't really want it."
Andy, "Then....do you choose pink?"

Fletcher, Andy and Aida had a blast playing with monsters today. 
Fletcher, "There's a meteorite landing in the garden!"
Andy," Look! Watch out! Four planets crashing down!"
Fletcher, "Take cover in the truck!"
(Aida took Fletcher's suggestion and put the monsters in the truck to protect them.)
Andy, "And three suns.....it's gonna be fire falling down on our building."
Fletcher, "It will take two weeks to build it."
Fletcher, "Keep an eye out for anymore monsters that are trapped."

Aida worked diligently on a message for her parents.

Olivia took Pam on a picnic and later connected with Grace by comparing heights.

Outside, the children had fun watching a nearby crane at work, drawing and playing with long tubes.

Final Thoughts

The children have used this first week of school to make new connections and reconnect with old friends. They are making the best of having to be split into two groups, wearing masks and following new protocols. But even with all the changes and sacrifices there is joy, laughter, connection and learning.
                Today during snack Cannon said, "I'm happy to be back at school."