Did you know?

What do you really need to know about New School West? Here are some basic facts and information to get you in-the-know:

 Did you know some of the most important information you need is in one of two places: (1) on the blog or (2) on the back of the front door. Sign up on the blog to receive daily blog posts to help you stay informed. http://nswparents.net/

 Did you know that your kid’s paperwork, clothes and stuff will be in one of the following places: (1) his/her cubby; (2) the file box next to where you sign in/out; (3) a basket with each child’s file in both wings; (5) with your child’s nap gear; (6) the lost and found box under the entryway table!

 Did you know that you should call the school if your child will not be coming that day?  If you know in advance, write it on the dry erase board on the back of the kitchen door.  The board can also be used if you have any special instructions, such as someone else will be picking your child up that day.

 Did you know that the group snacks should not break the bank? Remember, the kid’s tummies are tiny—portions may be one slice of apple, or 4 teaspoons of applesauce.  You’re feeding an army—of very small children.  On the day your kid “serves” snack, he/she will meet with the teacher to discuss the portions and draw a menu, which will be posted in the hallway.  Please have snack at school by 8:30am, or the evening before!

 Did you know that library books could be checked out?   Please check with Jessica and sign out your books in the notebook in the “library.” There’s also a book “wish list” in the library if you want to donate a book to the school.

 Did you know that there are envelopes on the door in Roleen’s office for tuition checks, Gymtastics checks, turning in forms, and other required paperwork?

 Did you know that you can simply find out if your child took a nap by looking at the Nap Chart hanging on the inside wall right by the door in the two wings?

 Did you know that if your child had any type of accident (physical, toilet) that a note will be put in his/her cubby or placed in the file box by sign in area?

 Did you know that if you can’t find parking right by the school, there is a really good chance you’ll find a spot right around the block on Venice or Meier? The earlier you arrive the better to snag one of those two FIVE-minute parking spots. Consider walking on Wednesdays or Thursdays during the parking restrictions, or get crazy and walk to school if you can.

 Did you know you should take your child’s nap linens home weekly for a good washing?

 Did you know that your child could sign up for some special things, such as feeding the turtle?  There is a sign up sheet near the tank in the West Wing.

 Did you know that you could volunteer for afternoon snack time any day between 2:30 and 4:30 pm?  This is a wonderful way to engage with the children and enjoy some patio hang time.  You can do this once, twice, or on a regular basis.  It’s a great way to meet everyone at school and participate in fascinating conversation!

 Did you know that circle time is participation time!

Volunteer to lead circle one day by sharing a favorite book, sharing a family tradition, or a personal talent.  Families have shared activities they do together like explaining Hanukah, putting on a puppet show in the Indian tradition, or even sharing the English tradition of holiday  “Christmas crackers.”  Over the years, musical parents have come in for a monthly circle time sing-along and instrumental shows (this can be 5 minutes!), or even to share a story.  Plan ahead with your child’s teacher so everyone is prepared and can support you.

 Did you know that child’s appointments are at least 10 to 15 minutes for the West Wing, and around 30 minutes on the East Wing?  Though there are many times, that expands to support the children’s extended interest. 

 Did you know that you could volunteer to help out in the nap rooms during naptime from 12:45 to 2:15 or so? In fact, we’re always looking for volunteers.