Here Comes the FUN! (not that every day ISN'T fun...)

These little balls of sunshine are well on their way to kindergarten.  Last week we starting ADDING!  That's right.  These kiddos are working on word families and addition.  This is NOT something they need to know before leaving prek, but some are really interested in numbers so it was natural to begin.  Here are some ways to keep it fun with numbers at home. PLEASE no worksheets.  Let's focus on manipulatives, things they can use to learn number concepts.

Use a pair of dice and some noodles or paperclips or even pennies.  Have them roll and count out the manipulatives.  Once they are done counting out, combine and have them count the whole group.  You can also use the 10 frame that I sent home last week.  They know how to use it and really love it.  For that you can give them a number between 1-20 to create using the 10 frame.

So I spoke of word families above.  Again, let's stay away from worksheets.  You can simply make an index card with -at, -it, -ot and use magnetic letters or letter cards to put in front of the word family card.  The idea is they can swap out different consonants and be able to "read" because they know that word family.  Remember at this age nonsense is ok.  As long as they can sound out the first letter with the word family, I am happy.    Speaking of sounding out, we are all the way through letter N.  They should be working on those sounds.

We are getting ready for Easter by observing Lent. We spoke a bit today about sacrifice and giving things up for Lent, but we also talked about ADDING something we don't always do.  Please don't be upset if they suddenly feel the need to make their beds or take the laundry to the basement or something different.  LOL.  

Finally, A Soup OPera is coming along so well.  I hope you hear a lot about it.  I would love to give you a peek, but it is just too cute and MUST remain a surprise. Please work on those costumes and don't forget to RSVP.  After Soup Opera, we will begin a unit on Music which will flow right into our amazing trip to the CSO.  

I will be posting some examples of the word work and addition practice along with our latest artist Michelangelo later.  Check back soon. 

Take care and stay warm,

TB