what happens in the summer?

Reading and Revisiting

During the summer I reread and revisited The First Six Weeks as well as readings on the Responsive Classroom approach. These readings are an important reminder to start slow, take the necessary time to establish routines and classroom expectations together, and focus on building relationships.

The summer is also a time to revisit and explore the work of teachers from many different schools, communities, and cultures. If you have poems or writing by teachers that you wish to share, please do so. I believe it is important for us to learn and celebrate together! I also had the opportunity to be a part of the Arts Literacy Institute during a week in August - it was one of the most powerful and influential workshops I have attended. At the institute, educators explored and experienced a whole body approach to literacy - cognitive, affective, and physical. We discussed, experienced, and reflected on integrating the arts into meaningful and authentic teaching. I read a new book that quickly became a favorite; Kindergarten by Julie Diamond. Diamond's words validate all the thought and love that goes into teaching Kindergarten! 

 

Putting the Classroom Together

It takes time and thoughtful reflection when setting up a classroom environment. I see the environment as another teacher - it is important for it to be organized and structured in a way to support the needs of the children. Shelves, tables, and lanterns help to define spaces. Labels - as we need them - remind children of where things live. Large, empty spaces for children's writing and art work are full of unknown possibilities for the year ahead. I also believe in sharing the voice of the children that once lived in this room, through a small collection of their pictures and work. Having a child's voice present in the space helps all to recognize that this is a space for children to be together and that important things happen here. 

 

 









My mom visited to help weed the garden outside of our classroom door and plant a few herbs for the children to explore - it was a wonderful gift, as the outside environment is as important as the inside. We will take the time the second week of school to introduce and talk about noticings in the garden.