Dear Parents, This week in Room 14, we continued to engage in all things related to Hanukkah. We told the holiday story again, we played with dreidels, we saw the difference between dreidels that you would find in Israel, that say, "A great miracle happened here" and between the dreidels outside of Israel that say, "A great miracle happened there." We also saw that there are many different types of dreidels, in all kinds of colors and in all sizes and shapes. As we tried to make them spin, we found that some of them were much easier. With the more difficult ones, we began a conversation about how when something presents that kind of challenge, we should keep trying and do our best not to be discouraged. The most fun part was making dreidels ourselves! This week we also discussed the foods that we usually eat during Hanukkah: Latkes (“Levivot”) and jelly donuts (“Sufganyot”). We discussed the reason why we eat these foods, what these foods have in common and what their differences are. We found that they have a similar color but the frying in oil is what sets them apart and ties them to Hanukkah. We also prepared Latkes, peeled, dragged and filtered the water from the shredded potatoes. It was hard work, but we did it collaboratively! This week in the studio, after being exposed and experimenting with different materials and techniques over the past few weeks, the children chose what they wanted to engage in and work with again. Some chose to roll papers and glue on the canvas in a way that it creates special shapes (this is called quilling). Some painted with pastel colors and blended them with a special stick, and some children worked with clay. Those who worked with clay first tried to create a small Jug like the oil jug found at the temple in Hanukkah story, and then each created what came to mind—a palace, challah, giant turtle, etc. In the second part of the studio, we explored loose parts, seashells, beads, and the light table. It is fun to see how children are attracted over time to things that they would not choose at the first moment and as they are exposed to more materials, techniques, play, exploration, they open themselves up to more learning opportunities, and their social dynamics change and renew. Reminders:
Our Hanukkah party will be on Wednesday, December 18, at 9:15 a.m. Parents are welcome to join us. Unfortunately, our room can only accommodate parents and the children in our classroom. Please, no siblings or extended family or friends. Thank you for your cooperation. Friday 12\20- Tzedakah donate to Light Up Literacy. School dismissal at 11:45 a.m. on Friday, 12/20 Have a wonderful weekend!
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