Chocolate time

Well done to the children who got commendations and most merits in church yesterday. It was a lovely service and the children sang beautifully.

You will have noticed that  in the morning I am now encouraging the children to look me in the eyes and say good morning. This is all part of a learning process and is important as they develop through life. When someone asks you a question or says something then it is polite to respond.

We had fun making chocolate crispy cakes today. This was part of our science investigation into finding out what happens to chocolate when it is heated and cooled. Some children were very observant and articulate about the chocolate melting even in their hands as they were breaking it up.

Is Spring here?

Feeling inspired by a pleasant early morning dog walk at Drews Pond, the growing buds and opening daffodils, I decided Spring would come to Cygnus class. After making comparisons between Winter and Spring, we had a go at drawing daffodils or tulips using pastels. Supported by an adult, the children were encouraged to look very carefully at the shape and colour. We were very impressed by the results and they will be part of my changed displays.

We all had a go at running laps of the playground with our Y6 buddies. Thank you to everyone who donated money for sports relief. After the holidays we will be doing PE outside. Children will need daps or trainers without laces please. I am happy for children to wear laces if they can tie the laces themselves.

Hopefully we will be close to starting swimming after the Easter holidays, I will send information out in plenty of time. However, children will need a towel, a one piece swim costume (close fitting trunks and not swim shorts for the boys), easy to put on foot wear for walking between classroom and pool and finally a swim hat. These can be purchased cheaply in the office. Children on the medical register will need a red hat which supports early identification if needed. I would like children to be as independent as possible at putting swim hats on and I have always been most impressed by everyone that can do it after being supported at home. A little talcum powder in the hat makes them much easier to open and pull over heads.  All earrings have to be removed and not taped. We don't need goggles in EYFS as I will be doing water safety and not swim teaching. As we live so close to water I feel it really important that children learn skills needed to get themselves to the side and out of water. Part of this is getting used to being in water without goggles.

As the weather gets warmer, children will be wearing summer clothes. We suggest that a strong sun cream is applied first thing in the morning and this provides protection through the day. A good sun cream may cost a little extra but it is worth it especially as we could be swimming twice a week. 

 Sorting Easter Cards into religious and non religious groups, explaining their understanding and thoughts.