Dear Forest Families,

As we transition from summer into fall, we are all becoming ready for a deeper level of exploration and learning!  You may have noticed the subtle changes that are taking place as we add a make-believe play element to each center in our classroom.  So far the Dramatic Play center has become a kitchen, the Literacy center has become a bedroom, and the Blocks center has become a garage.  This week we continued to build this theme of “Family” in the Art center which became a laundry room where children can pretend to wash, dry, and fold clothing.  Look around for the props which the children and teachers are creating as they imagine the scenarios that can take place in each “room” of the family’s home!  This make-believe play element is the backbone of the Tools of the Mind curriculum, and as the children catch on to the idea we are seeing more prolonged engagement and imaginative cooperative play.

In order to facilitate this type of play, this week we began our “Play Planning” at the start of each play period.  Children meet with a small group where they take turns choosing where they will play.  As we continue, children will also draw and write their own plans for play.

In order for your child to get the most out of his/her school day, it is helpful to arrive before Big Circle, which starts at 8:30am.  We use this time to greet one another, to get settled and comfortable in the classroom, and build our community through an Opening Group time so that we are ready to focus on Play Planning by 9:00am.  Our days are full of intentional activities, and we would love for every child to participate!

Speaking of community and family, please bring in a current photo of your child’s family if you have not yet done so.

Have a great weekend!

~Ms. Amanda, Ms. Kristine, Ms. Jess, Ms. Freya, Ms. Becky

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