One of our social studies goals is to learn about a variety of traditions and cultures. Today Ms. Carol made this goal come to life with studies of Hanukkah.
During our morning circle, she read "Light One Candle", a counting book about the menorah. She brought two menorahs, a beautiful silver one that she uses at home and a cloth one with cloth candles and fire. The children each took turns placing cloth candles and fire on the cloth menorah. We learned that, since we have four children and eight candles, each child gets to place two on the menorah. Ms. Carol's book taught about the traditions of Hanukkah, special foods, gifts, and being with family.
For art, we made our own menorahs, counting out the candles needed for each child. She also brought dreidel and helped us use fine motor skills to peel and stick stickers to decorate them. After playing outside, Ms. Carol taught us how to play the dreidel game, showing us the meaning of each side. It's actually a math game. The children were so excited when she brought out an electronic laser dreidel! I was able to do some independent work with each child while the dreidel game was played.
There is a cute dreidle song we heard during lunch. You can listen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQL55Y2v5Ng
Following lunch and journals, Tucker brought a Gingerbread Pirate book to share. He told us what happened on each page. Evan shared a lego creation with us, sharing it with his friends.
It's hard to believe there's only one more week of school! Next week will be busy, busy with the community sale and pajama day!
Have a great weekend and I can't wait for all the fun next week!
