Dear
Angwin families and friends,
What
another busy and fun filled week we had in the Angwin room. Even with the
gloomy weather, the children continue to explore varied learning experiences we
have on offer, whether in or out of the classroom.
We are excited to let you
know that out phasmid/ spiny leaf insect hatchery has been a success with 2
nymphs exploring their world. Come and see for yourself.
Wow!
We have phasmids again!-Felix tells his grandad Phil who came from
Melbourne
We
have to make sure the lid is shut, cause the nymphs move really fast-Lochlann reminded
his peers.
They
look like little spiders- Ryan shared his
observation
The
nymphs move so fast that one of them escaped only to be found hanging around
our plants in the room. Phew! Lucky!
We also made galaxy- inspired playdough to further support children’s explorations on space and planets. The children helped with the ingredients especially pouring silver glitter to make the stars.
It’s black, said Thomas. And sparkly.
Stars are sparkly!, commented Sammy.
As soon as it was ready and cool enough to work with, the children enjoyed rolling, flattening, punching and many ways to make contact with it as well adding moonstones to their designs. What a great sensory activity it was which also gave opportunities for sharing and working positively with other children.
This
week, we also read Michael Recycle by Ellie Bethel which inspired the start of
our Recycled garden.
Walter suggested that instead of throwing
our bottles, we can use them for planting or for saving water for creatures.
Paxton thought
that its really not good when people throw their garbage everywhere. "It’s
messy”,
James agreed. Provoked by this literature, we used
some of our recycle bottles to plant succulents in and hang them on our outdoor
walls.
We are hoping that these hanging bottles help our plants grow healthy
and ‘pretty' as Laila said.
Last
Wednesday, the children were very lucky to have a cooking session with Ms Jen
baking yummy flourless orange and banana cake. The children helped prepare the
ingredients and assisted Ms Jen with the procedure. What a yummy healthy treat
that was for the children to enjoy!
The
children also continue to explore the sound of music by playing varied musical
instruments spontaneously. They love the sound that the Balinese xylophone
makes, exploring the varying pitch and rhythm. They listen to the way the sound
changes with each strum of the guitar strings and experiment with pressure on
varied percussions. This encourages children to recognise their inner hearing
and produce sounds that are pleasant to their ears and those of their friends.
Its also a great way to see the children interact positively in small or large
groups.
Our
Nickel Nackle Tree project with the Cooper children is taking shape. Our
inquiry on birds inspired this collaborative project and we can wait to show
you the finished product next week. Stay tuned.
Next
week, we will continue with out recycled garden projects and explore music in
different fun ways. We are also looking forward to Pyjama Day next week. Please
send your children in their pyjamas and robes, one soft toy for snuggles and
a special plastic cup or mug to enjoy a warm chocolate drink with pancakes on
this day.
Mrs
Rocca and Ms Jen
