We have read several books about Hanukkah this week as we begin our exploration of some of the different holidays observed at this time of year. I am beginning to teach the class the dreidel game, which involves some great math skills.

A new student will be joining our class next week. We have started talking about ways we can welcome her into the class and make her feel comfortable. Many of the students already know her from Spring Hill, which will help make the transition easier, but we have discussed the importance of giving her a fresh start in this class and allowing her the space to get to know all of the children in the class. Today we brainstormed parts of the day that may feel particularly overwhelming to a new student and assigned volunteers to help her through those specific parts of the day for the first several days she is here. We also talked about how fifteen versus sixteen and how much nicer it can be to work with an even number of students when forming groups! We are excited to have her join us.