And...April!

This week we finished up work with the Kindness Curriculum. The study has taken us through many different stages, from recognizing emotions in ourselves and others, to conflict resolution, and for the last few weeks has focused on the many different ways we can be kind. We read books this week about being kind not only to people, but to plants, animals, and the earth. As our final project we created a kindness wreath with handprints and hearts that each child decorated. We will continue to practice what we have learned for the rest of the school year (and hopefully beyond!). Here are some suggestions about how to incorporate some of our kindness practices into your home routines.

Create a “Kindness Garden” at your house, and plant a “seed” (sticker) every time you see an act of kindness.

If your child makes a mistake and hurts someone (physically or emotionally) help them check in with the person they hurt. In class we say “I didn’t mean it, are you okay?”

Help your child recognize the emotions they are feeling. Ask “How are you feeling on the inside?” Let them know that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable emotions (angry, sad, disappointed).

Set up a “Peace Corner” in your house where your child can go to calm down when they are feeling uncomfortable emotions. Have a basket of calming activities including their peace jar.

Talk to Erin or me if you have any questions or ideas.

In other news, make sure to mark your calendars for no school on May 25, as it will be a visiting day for the incoming preschool class. Our kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Duggan, will be offering an open classroom for interested parents to come visit and learn a little more about the kindergarten program on May 18. This is a time just for families to visit without kids, as pre-k will have our own “move up day” and transition activities later in the spring.