Movement and Music

When, at last, my work is done, I sing and dance with everyone..."

MUSIC CLASS
Today we had a rollicking good time with Annette. After our routine 'good morning' songs, we proceeded through some high/low excercises and into movement to recorded music. The big hit of the day was "I'm A Shoemaker," about a bloke who enjoys dancing only after he's completed his work. Looking at the photos from this session, I realize how little time their feet are in contact with the ground. It's maybe 30% at best. We're action-packed!

TODAY'S ACTIVITY
The raccoon group measured, mixed, cooked and cooled a fresh batch of purple playdough. Tomorrow the squirrel group will do the same. They can remember nearly all of the ingredients (cream of tartar is tricky) and about how much of each is needed. Even though we do it every two to three weeks, it continues to be a hit among our budding scientists and chefs. What? You've never had a playdough cookie?

TODAY'S STORY
Silly Billy, by Pat Hutchins. Every time Hazel Monster tries to play something, her little brother, Billy spoils it. When he wrecks the family game, she moves on to her doll house. Every time, he wants to follow. "Oh, let Billy try, he's only little." Hazel always follows with, "SILLY BILLY! You spoiled my game!" So it goes, from the game to the dollhouse to the blocks, to the train set. Hazel sees a pattern of behavior and pretends to sleep in the empty toy box. This time, everyone is eager to give Billy a turn. He falls asleep, giving Hazel the chance to rebuild her toys and return to the game with her family. Once again, the repetitive pattern coupled with picture clues made this book perfect for reading indepentently. The language patterns and sequences could be heard coming from our library throughout the day, building confident young readers.