What fun these last two weeks have been! Sally Eagle came last week to show us her slides of Antarctica. Sally, a professional photographer, spent two weeks in Antarctica several years ago. The children were entranced by her photos of penguins, elephant seals, and icebergs, and with her stories of encounters with friendly and not-so-friendly creatures. Her presentation was enjoyed by all.
Last week, we celebrated Pajama Day, a beloved tradition for BCD’s youngest students. Gathering early in the morning with the PreK, students (and teachers!) arrived at school in their pajamas. The children enjoyed playing in small tents with sleeping bags and stuffed toys and reading books by flashlight. We had a “Night Meeting” followed by several activities that involved glow-in-the-dark stars and stickers. Popcorn and hot cocoa were offered at snack. We read special books (What! cried Granny, an Almost-Bedtime Story by Kate Lum was the absolute favorite). All agreed that Pajama Day was awesome!
Last week we began something that I hope will become a monthly tradition. On the last Thursday of every month, under the direction of Claire Pollart, BCD students help staff “Open Table” in Stockbridge serving food to approximately40 people, mostly senior citizens, who come there for a hot meal and friendly conversation. Kindergarten was able to help contribute to this meal by baking cookies and sending them with Claire in time for dinner. The class was very excited when I explained to them about Open Table and asked if they wanted to help feed the guests there by baking dessert. They were also quite sad when told that we would not be eating any of the cookies. It is important to me that children learn that they can help others and that their contributions can make a difference in the lives of others. We will be making table decorations and baking for Open Table again at the end of this month. And I did promise the class that we would bake Valentine’s cookies for ourselves, which made then all quite happy.
We had a fine trip to the Norman Rockwell Museum yesterday to see the artwork of Margaret and A.H. Rey, the husband and wife team that created the Curious George books. The original watercolor illustrations are still fresh and bright. We also saw an exhibit on pop-up books, and each child had a chance to make a card using their own hands as the pop-up. We went with PreK and had great time together.
We ended the week with a fabulous Lunch Bunch. Homemade mac & cheese, chicken nuggets, fresh berries and chocolate chip cookies made for a wonderful meal. Thank you to Elise De, Emily Bernard, and Amy Elmore for providing us with such a great lunch. Yum!
Upcoming events include Valentine’s Day and the 100th Day of School Celebration. Information about both events will come in your email this weekend, so stay tuned!
Andrea