It feels good to get back in the school routine! I’ve mentioned to several of you that Christmas vacation is the best rest the kids get all year and it seems to jump start their learning! Everyone came back rested and ready to learn! Reading and writing skills are steadily improving and kids seem more confident!

Today you’ll see a math homework activity that is exactly like a game we played in class. Your child should be able to teach the game to you tonight! You’ll also notice a sheet to be returned to school…the game stays at home with you (to be played over and over) and the sheet comes back to me!

This time of year is really important for reading growth…the kids are really motivated and starting to realize that they “get it!” Try to find time to read each day…they are beginning to choose some books to practice each night. Some nights they’ll have chosen well, and other nights they’ll have chosen books too difficult to read independently. You’ll recognize the reading group book (it says “Reading A-Z” on the cover) which IS a just right book!

In preparation for our field trip to Shelburne Farms (on the 24th), we’ll begin learning about animals active in winter in Vermont! The lessons generally focus on animal tracks and other evidence of animal activity.

I’m so excited for you to read the stories your children wrote about Christmas! I’m thinking we can find a way to get them on the blog…I’ll work on it next week!

Have a super weekend!