First Week! – New School West

What a delightful first week! Teacher Jenn in the West Wing offered a play by play of the first days to share with everyone:

After saying goodbye, we had a morning meeting where we said hello to each other, sang songs, and then headed out for small group work. In the West Wing (house area, building area, charcoal table, communication center, sensory table, etc.) and Atelier (with teachers Cindy and Jess R.), the children explored and became familiar with the materials, toys, and environment. (Please see the appointment paper that is posted on our wall by the sign in sheets every day to inform you of what areas your child was in that day). Teacher Amy, who led the West Wing morning and afternoon meetings, sent children to different areas in pairs, so throughout our day they were engaging different people and starting conversations. We saw some friendships forming already.

At lunch, we all sat together by flower group and enjoyed making jokes about “shoe fly” (because we were keeping some flies away). They thought adding a different word after “shoe” was hilarious…for example, “shoe superman”. =)

Nap time was another new transition in the West Wing’s school schedule. All their mats were made up with sheets and lovies from home. Soft music played and teachers Astrid, Katherine, Evelyn, Flora, and Ivana comforted the children as they rested or napped. You can see how East and West Wing children spent that time on the ‘nap chart’ hung inside the first door in each classroom. It’s marked by day with an ‘R’ for rested or an ‘S’ for slept.

The rest of the afternoon offered more small group time exploring the environment and making connections. We hope this post and this blog offer weekend conversations about new friends and favorite spaces. Sit together and notice the photos with your child(ren) to spark conversations. See you next week!