01+11+2008

= Kindergarten News =

=January 11, 2008 = = from Mrs. Knee, Mrs. Neily = = and Mrs. Shepard =  A math routine called the Counting Jar was introduced this week. This routine offers practice in counting and learning about quantity. There are 3 steps: counting the objects in the jar, representing on paper how many objects are in the jar, and counting out another set of objects equivalent to the jar quantity and placing this new set on a paper plate with their name. The children are expected to complete the routine independently and then choose a classmate who also needs to complete the tasks.

We have begun to work on writing upper case letters in standard, conventional form. The letters we are working with are F E P B R D M and N. They are called “frog jump” letters because the after the first line is written, the pencil jumps up to the top of the line to continue to form the letter. When young children begin to write, they usually “draw” the letters by copying and adult model. They also will start their letters from the bottom and go up. You will notice this most often when a child draws a circle. It is difficult to break out of this habit but it is important for children to begin to write in a conventional and efficient way. Another important factor in handwriting is a correct and comfortable pencil grasp.

Children need to practice the new skill in order to establish the habit of correct formation. There is a paper in your child’s folder showing the correct directions for writing upper and lower case letters as well as numbers. We are not practicing the lower case letters yet. The children will also learn the standard method for writing numerals. I have also included a paper to help with the writing practice for the frog jump letters. Sit with your child a few times a week to practice writing for about five minutes at a time. The children still need the support of an adult to insure that they are writing the letter/number in the correct manner. They should not be left alone to write rows of letters. They need feedback from an adult sitting with them as the form each letter. Through at home practice (homework) and your support, there will be much improvement in your child’s handwriting.

Your child is bringing home a book that we have been working with this week. After reading a couple different versions of The Mitten, each child has a simplified version to read with you. Some children need reminders to check the picture on each page to name the animal. Early readers need to check the picture to help know the unfamiliar words. Remind your child to point under each word as they read. Matching their voice to the text helps them become aware of the word to read and to double check to be sure they are reading the correct word. Not every child in the class is reading in the true sense of the word. But every child is able to demonstrate essential skills that contribute to learning to read. Thank you in advance for supporting your child in the exciting work of learning to read.