Today was our first day with the 3 Year Olds! I always forget how much work the first week is. We need to start all over again and show them how we do everything. Many times. Over and over. We don't move on until we feel they have grasped what we've shown them and they feel comfortable in their surroundings. Here are some firsts for today:
Signing In. We find our names and draw a line across the page. Later, when we are ready, we can write some or all of the letters in our name.
Sometimes there is a line at the sink to wash hands. We learned that only one person can be on the step stool at a time. Waiting for 3's can be very challenging, but they did a great job!
When we are finished with our work, we put them in our cubbies. Unless they are wet. Then they go on the drying table.
Clean up time takes the longest at the beginning, and we never, ever remember to give extra time for this. They were so willing to help clean, though!
Each child has his/her own mat at circle time. In the beginning, many need help recognizing their names.
Our first circle time went well! A bit of talking and poking, but that's the norm. They were very excited to have their own place to sit.
We worked hard, played hard, and made new friends. I don't know about the children, but I was tired when I got home and took a nice nap! The first week is exhausting, but so much fun.
I really like reading your blog. Thank you❣
ReplyDeleteThank you, Tinky!
DeleteSo reassuring to read this. My daughter starts her first day of preschool (3/4 year old class) tomorrow! She just turned 3 last week and I'm so nervous if she'll do all right. We speak German at home, so she doesn't speak much English right now (hence the purpose of her going to preschool to learn English!) I feel much better to know that "normal" 3 year olds need a lot of patience and that her teachers will be used to it.
ReplyDeleteI did tell her teacher in January that we speak German at home, but haven't brought it up since, so I'm not sure if I should write a quick note or say something before school (to remind them), or just to let it be... thoughts? Thanks!
Becky, I think it would be a good idea to remind her teacher. I've had students who have spoken other languages at home at it was really helpful for me to know. I followed up with the parents regularly on their progress.
DeleteI'm sure your daughter will have a wonderful year! Such a milestone! (I remember well my oldest son's first day of preschool, 20 years ago. He, too, was on the young side and I worried. He did just fine!)
The two and three year olds know how to write and recognize their names, that is wonderful. How do I go about teaching the three soon to be four year olds I just got today how not only to write their letters and names but recognize them as well? Thanks for sharing, and seeing that blog encourages me even the more.
ReplyDeleteRhasheeda