Our first two sessions of ECO have been fantastic.  Much of our time has been focused on learning ECO routines and expectations that will be in place for the whole year.   We always stop in the field when we get off the bus to play a game and have a whole group meeting, which includes thinking of something we are thankful for and singing a song.  Then we quietly make our way into the forest where we settle in for snack and hear a story.  This is followed by our main activity for the day.  Finally, children visit their sit spots, where they write or draw in their journals before we come back together for a closing circle.  The success of this is built on several important expectations.  These include staying within the designated boundaries and making sure we can always see an adult, respecting the safety circle when we are having having snack, and following the three cares:  take care of yourself, take care of each other, and take care of the earth.  Ask your child to tell you about these!

Last week we met with our third and fourth grade learning partners for the first time.  This is a really nice way for kindergarteners to build a connection with older students.  We will continue to meet on a regular basis, often to read together, but sometimes to engage in other activities across content areas.