Settling-In Time Sets the Emotional Tone for the Day: Developing Friendship, Responsibility, Self-Motivation, and Collaboration Skills
Discover Easy, Authentic Ways to Build Opinion Writing in Kindergarten: Teach the Word “Because”
Settling-In Time Sets the Emotional Tone for the Day: Developing Friendship, Responsibility, Self-Motivation, and Collaboration Skills
7 Best Tips to Grow Young Writers
Parents: Where Do You Think Your Child Is Right Now as a Writer? 1. Share kindergarten writing samples and rubrics with parents: Where do you think your child is as a writer right now? Help parents notice and appreciate how their child will grow as a writer in kindergarten. (See September 23, 2020 blog for […]
How to Have the Best Kindergarten Back-to-School Night Ever: Family Scavenger Hunt Step-by-Step
Families’ first visit to kindergarten is organized, purposeful, and inviting “Sunflower Children” and warm-hearted Katie Nelson welcome each family as they arrive. The environment is carefully prepared to introduce literacy routines and involve Parents as Partners. Children sign in on their first “Name Ticket” with guided help from Mom or Dad. They put their finished […]
10 Steps for Success: Independent Writing Center Totes Provide Authentic Writing Experiences All Year Long!
Settling-In Time Sets the Emotional Tone for the Day: Developing Friendship, Responsibility, Self-Motivation, and Collaboration Skills
Drawing Instruction Supports Handwriting Development and Writing Proficiency
Glimpses of kindergarten life with retired teacher Laura Flocker from September through May: An Oregon Model of Excellence (last printed in 2020) This is what we know for sure: Provide explicit, systematic instruction in seeing and drawing like an artist. Introduce children to lines and rich vocabulary the first week of school with crayons and […]
Kindergarten Handwriting Tips
We focus on good handwriting skills in kindergarten all year long. In January, students practice letter formation for their first and last names. Send home free printable Name Ticket books so families can help their children practice. Build short authentic practices into morning work activities and continue sight word sentences.
15 Reasons to Bring Back the Out Loud Culture in Kindergarten
Settling-In Time Sets the Emotional Tone for the Day: Developing Friendship, Responsibility, Self-Motivation, and Collaboration Skills
How to Simplify Kindergarten Handwriting Instruction
How to Simplify Kindergarten Handwriting Instruction And Build Stamina and Fluency for Writing Workshop! 1) Intentionally develop fine motor skills and teach pencil grip. Differentiate instruction, recognizing the diverse 4-year range of skill development typical in most kindergartens. Use fingerspelling, games, and guided drawing to build finger dexterity, perceptual motor skills, and focus. All photos […]
Kindergarten-Friendly Handwriting: 10 Keys to Success
Settling-In Time Sets the Emotional Tone for the Day: Developing Friendship, Responsibility, Self-Motivation, and Collaboration Skills