From Sarah Abbot Deputy Principal P - 2
WELCOME BACK PREPS and YEAR 1s
It is lovely to have the Preps and Year 1s back at school. We missed them greatly and I know that the teachers would join me in saying that it was great to have our youngest students finally back in the classroom! Thank you to the parents/carers for doing a wonderful job with learning-at-home, I know it can’t have been easy and I sincerely appreciate your efforts.
LEGO WEEKLY CHALLENGE
In Week 3, the challenge was placed to build a maze that I could solve. In Week 4 the challenge was to build your favourite animal or character and as an extension challenge, build a habitat that your animal/character could live in. Again, so many fantastic photos were sent in. It is wonderful to see children being creative, problem solving and having fun whilst learning. Thanks to everyone who sent in photos, it has been a pleasure receiving and replying to all photos sent in!
Click below to see Lego Challenges 2 & 3
LEGO WEEKLY CHALLENGE
This week, the challenge is to create a game with your Lego (or another household materials). I look forward to sharing more photos on Facebook and in the newsletter in weeks to come.
MODELLING TO CHILDREN
One of the most powerful tools parents and teachers have at their disposal in educating and shaping their children is their ability to be a role model. Children carefully observe and imitate not only our actions, but our values and beliefs. To ensure our children are exhibiting the behaviours and traits we expect to see, we first need to turn the mirror on ourselves to ensure we are modelling these expectations.
Adults can model behaviour in two ways to children:
- The way in which they explicitly demonstrate techniques, processes and strategies to encourage learning.
- Their unspoken actions – the way they naturally express their passions, interests, values and authenticity as thinkers, learners and community members.
Some tips for being a positive role model to children
- Allow yourself to be authentic – look for opportunities to share your successes and your struggles as a learner and thinker.
- Clarify your values – this isn’t about being perfect, it is about imagining your best self and constantly striving to put your best forward in front of your children. What type of person would you like your child to be in the wider community?
- Talk to your children about the difference between knowing a lot and being a good thinker.
- Empower your children to have choice over their actions and take ownership for the consequences.
- Share your curiosity moments. Curiosity is a driver of new learning!
- Practice the Think Aloud – making our thinking visible. (WHSS Term 2 – Week 1 Newsletter)
- Plan for a gradual release of responsibility to encourage your child to become independent.
- Share the art of apology and accepting an apology. We all make mistakes. It takes courage and practice to apologise with grace, and once mastered develops resilience.
(Ritchhart, 2015)