Greetings Classroom 3 Families,
What a wonderful year it has been, when we think back to the beginning of the school year in September to now. My heart smiles to know how much our Classroom 3 friends have grown. Not only physically but mentally and emotionally. It is so important to look back and reflect on all of this years accomplishments to see how far we have come and to reset our future goals.
From toilet learning, to self-dressing, to learning to use our words to express ourselves and ask for help. To the hard work of mopping the floors and scrubbing the tables, to the long periods of concentration. Mostly importantly to working cooperatively with friends and learning what it means to be kind and respectful to one another. We take pride in knowing that these small lessons and accomplishments will be a big part of your child's future and that our high expectations to value and respect each other despite our differences will serve for a life time.
We are passionate about the work that we do everyday in the classroom because we understand the responsibility and the potential each child holds to create a harmonious community.
If one is not challenged, one cannot grow to their full potential. As parents we are faced with many challenges big and small each day. From spilling milk all over the car to an outburst of emotions because you broke your child's banana in half when they wanted it whole!
Parenting is full of ups and downs, laughter and tears. Learning to deal with our child's outburst of frustration can be challenging. However as parents we set the tone of how we deal with our own emotions. It is important to name your emotions. Be honest and specific my saying "I'm very mad or sad or _. When I'm feeling _I like to draw/write in my journal/ read a book/find a quiet place to calm down." "I'll be ready to talk when I feel calm". Reset and return and say I am ready to talk. It is healthy and very important to for children to hear you express these natural emotions in we all have in a calm and safe way. Sometimes it can seem that you child is upset over the smallest reason but what your child is really wanting to say is "I want to be in independent." Losing control over a situation is a big deal at the age of 2 and 3 year's old.
Managing children's intense feelings can be very challenging at times, hang in there, remember don't take it personally and stay calm. Always state your expectations clearly, be firm and always follow through.
Also remember all children are different. What works great for one child may not work for the other. When your child's emotions lead to a temper tantrum. where they've lost control whether it's because they are hungry or tired, or they were overstimulated because there were to many options. They may throw themselves on the floor, throw or break things, and even hit you. This is normal. Give your child time to calm down in a safe place and once your child is calm, you may reflect over the situation and help them process by talking about it and find creative and healthy ways to express themselves!
Please remember you are not alone! Tou are always welcome to reach out to Lisa , Matt or I. We would be happy to help in anyway possible.
As the holiday approaches, we would like to extend an invitation to your family to come into the classroom and share any traditions, meals or special days you may celebrate. We see the value in each family's unique way of celebrating and we'd love to celebrate with you!
Quick reminders. Please remember to bring your child's thick winter jacket, snow pants, boots, hat and mittens. Although there is no snow we are outside for 45 minutes to an hour each day. Unless the temperature drops below zero.
We hope everyone stays healthy and warm this winter break and we look forward to a Happy New Year!
