In honor of Damon's first lost tooth earlier in the week (and all of those that preceded it) we sang the song So Long Old Tooth and read a book about tooth traditions around the world. Ask your child some of the things children in other parts of the world do when they lose a tooth.

In math this week we continued looking at patterns. In addition we played several games that involve counting, comparing, and algebraic reasoning. Shut the Box is usually played with a box with numbered tiles and a die, but it could easily be played with playing cards or boxes drawn on paper, 1-9, and a die. With children finding different ways to reach the same sum (2+5 = 3+4), this game develops algebraic reasoning. We also played a game called Build a City using Unifix cubes, a die, and a chip labeled ‘more’ on one side and ‘less’ on the other. This could also be adapted using legos or another kind of connecting blocks. I have sent home directions for both of these if your child is interested in playing at home. This game helps children develop a sense of quantity for both smaller and larger numbers, as well as number relationships. I particularly like the twist at the end, when players flip the more/less chip to see who wins. While we played these games we talked about being a good sport, playing fair, and being a good winner or loser. Several students modeled this by shaking hands and saying good game when they were done. I sent home directions for both of these games today if your child is interested in playing at home.

Today we also worked with our third grade partners. We began a project on the five senses.

Have a great weekend!