This week we have been continuing to practise fine motor skills, letter and sound knowledge, number recognition and counting. By regularly practising these skills and concepts, the children become more confident and accurate in their ability to complete activities not only directly linked to counting or writing, but every day activities from fastening buttons when dressing, opening packets for lunch or giving out cakes to the right number of people on your birthday! Take a look at some of the activities that help us develop these skills and knowledge.
We also started to think about our families in our Unit of Inquiry. We talked about who is in our family and how we are connected to them. We even had a Skype interview with my mum to look at the similarities and differences between us. The children were very excited to ask questions and especially to see the different animals in our house.
We have been talking a lot about working together and developing our cooperation skills through the children's learning and play. Learning to take turns, share and not always be the winner is all part of the social and emotional development that takes place in K1. It has been great to hear the children using encouraging language towards each other and inviting others to join them in their games. Below is a photo of lots of the children working together to build a fort.
Mindfulness is a practice that can be used in a variety of situations and for a variety of reasons. It can help to bring calm at times of stress or worry, help us be present in a busy and hectic world, and can bring a sense of happiness. There has been a lot of research over the last few years, which have identified the benefits of practicing mindfulness for your brain and your overall wellbeing. The children take part in mindfulness activities every day after snack or lunch time to help them bring them back to the present and get them ready to engage in their upcoming learning experiences. Take a look at some of the mindfulness activities that we have been doing this week.