Today we began our Writer's Workshop routine.  We read a book called Library Mouse, by Daniel Kirk.  In this book a mouse named Sam writes books for children who visit the library.  He helps them realize that writing is quite fun and not so hard if you write about what you know.   I modeled for children by writing about something I did this weekend and we talked about the many ways of writing including telling a story with pictures, writing with pretend words, or writing any words we actually know.  Children helped me think of ways to add more detail to my story before they went off to write about their own weekend.  Most children chose to tell their story with a picture, letting me scribe for them when they were done.  We were able to share everyone's work, noticing specific details of each child's writing and hopefully spreading good ideas for next time.  Look for these first pieces of writing in your child's green folder.

We had a wonderful first week of school!  Much of our time was spent establishing routines and exploring materials that we will use throughout the year.  With such a small group it seems we are quickly learning basic expectations and moving through our days efficiently.  Beginning next week I am going to switch our morning recess and choice times so we can be outside with the first and second graders during their recess.  This will give our class an opportunity to mingle with other children on a daily basis and spend time in a larger group.

Thank you for doing such an amazing job of getting your children to school on time each day- I appreciate how challenging this can be, but it really makes a difference when we start the day with the whole group. Also thank you for returning red folders so promptly- this is a huge help to Kathi. Have a wonderful weekend!

Exploring math materials.

Looking at books independently...

and partner reading.

Working on "Hopes and Dreams" for the year.

Playing outside.

Happy first day! 

Your children were fantastic today, from sitting quietly through the assembly first thing, to maneuvering the lunch line and cafeteria routine, and everything in between.  The first day is perhaps the most challenging because everything is new and needs to be explained.  Your children were wonderfully patient and respectful as they began learning our classroom routines.   They received many compliments as we made our way through the school.  Despite the light rain at the start of our morning recess they were very eager to go outside, so we did.  Generally unless the weather is really inclement we will go out, so rain coats and puddle boots are a good thing to have on potentially wet days, although I have quite a few extras that I will happily let children borrow.  Our special today was library and each child has a library book in his or her backpack.  These can be returned anytime directly to the library or to the classroom collection basket.   I took many pictures today and will post some soon.  I expect all children will be quite tired this evening- this is to be expected!