As the West Wing children have been playing the “Sign Language Game”, we have noticed them closely observing pictures of their peers expressing emotions. One morning, we provided mirrors, paper, and pens and we took new pictures to add to the Game and to facilitate the discussion of their feelings. MJ: (Drawing her daddy) My…
To celebrate Josephine’s birthday, Rasheda and she shared a favorite book, “Me…Jane” by Patrick McDonnell at the West Wing’s morning Circle Time. Rasheda: We’ve been reading it at bedtime for the last two weeks, everyday. She loves when she turns into a grown up and goes from a cartoon to a real person. Josephine: Like…
Another year, another phenomenal job by the entire NSW community for this amazing gather! Enjoy the imagery! –Doc Committee [Show slideshow] 1 2 ►
From their first days in the West Wing Building Space, the children constructed and reconstructed the making of trucks. Now in the East Wing, their interest has deepened and the Building Space is exploding with ideas and designs. The children are supported by the school systems that value collaborative work, reflection meetings, and uninterrupted time…
It’s a birthday tradition to celebrate with friends at NSW. Parents like Isla’s, Luis and Susan, bring in a book they’ve shared with the teacher and read it at circle time with all the children. Afterwards, they may donate the book to the library at school and a special photo and name plate are put…
This week, Roleen surprised the West Wing teachers with a set of American Sign Language Blocks! Next, Jenn introduced them in the afternoon and the children showed complete engagement and excitement. The interest they have in wanting to learn how to sign the letters in their names is electrifying. Teacher Jenn: (During afternoon circle) Roleen…
Every month we listen to the safety bell and practice our responses. Amy: When we hear the bell, what does the it tell us to do? Dahlia: Stop, look and listen. Juliette: Look at the teacher. After we heard the bell: Archer: It was quiet when we were inside. Gus: It was loud to me,…
After creating a plan to build a ramp and a bridge, Henry, Theo, and Bowe gathered the necessary lumber for construction. Many of the larger wood pieces chosen required collaboration as the boys maneuvered them through the front yard. The first ramp and bridge went together quickly and without any major engineering challenges. The second…
Madeleine: The hot lava is here! The hot lava is here! With this simple invitation, a game begins. Bowe: Get on the pirate ship! Gus: The hot lava wave is coming all around our ship. Madeleine: The hot lava is here. It’s on the ground. Rio: Whoa! (as he slides down the slide, reaching up…
The Exploration Area invites four to five children to work with clay. Over the last month, the teachers have been discussing ways to help the children work in collaboration rather than individually. The environment was changed a few times. We have also implemented the “Master Plan” concept, where the children come together beforehand and draw…