Rain, Rain You Can Stay...

...we can still play anyway!

TODAY'S ACTIVITY
We mixed up a good batch of "Oobleck" by mixing cornstarch and water. This viscous substance invites vigorous tactile activity. Scooping up a handful and rolling it quickly produces a round ball. The catch is that the ball melts between the fingers when you stop. When it returns to the bin, the solids and liquids start to separate until "re-animated" by busy hands. The constant shifting between solid and liquid form holds their attention well. Their favorite act is rolling a ball as a "present" for a friend and handing it over. Mock surprise at the "bait and switch" tactic is humorous, for once.

PARACHUTE PLAY!
Today's parachute play was the game "sit and spin." One person sits in the center as the circle of friends slowly moves around them, gradually wrapping it around their lower body. At this point, everyone pulls back, spinning the seated person like a top. They loved it, and demonstrated the essential turn-taking, cooperation and ability to follow directions to make it successful.

TODAY'S STORY
Alpha Oops! - The Day Z Went First, by Althea Kontis and Bob Kolar. "Z" is tired of always being last and seizes control to shake things up a bit. All of the letters get their turns, in random order, showing things that start with them. "A" goes last, but has so much time to prepare that he fills a spread with many things that begin with "A". This book is hilarious mostly due to the letters arguing much like young children do. Also, there are gems in the subtext, such as, "Hey, 'U's been in the bathroom since 'P' took over!" Brilliant!