Say Cheese!

Wynn won a prize today for following our kindergarten rules and she chose to be our class photographer. Here are some of the (90!) photos she took of her friends at school today. You have a good eye, Wynn!

What is Peace?

This past week at school, we had many discussions about what peace means.  We spoke about symbols of peace, what Remembrance Day is all about, and how we can make peace in our own lives.

Inspired by this book by Todd Parr, 'C'est quoi, la paix?', we made a short video about what peace means to us. The kids chose things that make them feel peaceful, like hugs from mom and dad, and taking care of friends.  Other kids chose food, as many of our discussions centred around feeling peaceful when we are taken care of, like when our moms and dads make us delicious meals and snacks for kindergarten.  What struck me about all of our discussions is that to a 4- or 5-year old, peace can be found in a simple thing (eating a piece of fruit, or a snuggle with a stuffed toy).  When we look at how that simple thing makes them feel loved and safe, it becomes powerful enough to shape a life.

Remembrance Day and a Special Surprise

Here we are watching the Remembrance Day ceremony on Thursday.  It was an incredible service.  We heard the choirs sing and watched a memorable performance by the dance club.  It was beautiful and it perfectly complimented the discussions that we've been having in class about peace and remembrance. 

The next day was a perfect day for a special surprise that I've been planning.   We had a popcorn party!!  We spent a period watching a French show called Annie Brocoli.  It was meant to celebrate what a wonderful little family we've become in kindergarten.  This is such a caring and considerate group of students.  They help one another; include, protect and comfort one another; and they show me every day how much they care about the community that we've created in our classroom.

Doves for Peace

Today, we made doves (une colombe) and learned that they are a symbol of peace (la paix).

 Quote of the day: 

"My peace bird is going to have green slime coming out of his mouth!"

Oh, kindergarten.  Never a dull moment!

Peace and Poppies

Today we started talking about peace and Remembrance Day.  We painted poppies, which will be part of the school's Remembrance Day ceremony on Thursday.

Happy Halloween!!

Terrible Pictures of a Fantastic Morning

Today the kids had "Halloween Gym" during their regular Phys. Ed. period. They joined up with the other kindergarten class and some Grade 5 helpers to try out some spooky centres in the gym.  My camera's flash definitely ruined the ambiance (it was so dark and creepy!) but the kids were really having a blast.  The last two photos are from the change rooms, which were completely pitch black except for flashlights and glow sticks.  Thank you to our new Phys. Ed. teacher, Mme Tease, for setting up this neat experience.  I'd also like to take this opportunity to introduce her to you.  She will be here for the rest of the year while Mme Beaudin is on maternity leave.  Bienvenue!