Trials and Triumphs

Here is a smattering of highs and lows about the first week:

• A little boy has a mom who also works at the site- not for Head Start. He says hello to her, hugs her during our two bathroom trips. But then when we are in class he makes things for her and wants to deliver them right away. So, we got a manila envelope for him to decorate that is just for things he wants to give to his Mom after Head Start. Here's hoping its successful!

• A little boy who comes running in/in the morning, runs around and literally bounces of the walls. And children follow suit. Still working on a solution for that one. Also, he and another boy get emotionally overwhelmed (if anyone knows about that, I do!) and have taken to running out of the room and trying to hide so they can calm down. We have made a "safe place for one" in the corner, with pillows, blankets, stuffed bears and such. Hopefully that helps!

• Also, they each now have a plastic/flat circle for circle time with their name and picture on it. (I matched MOST of the names and pics correctly!) so they have a specific place to sit for circle time. And, they know have a name and picture, laminated placecard for lunch. So when they go to sit down, they look for their card.

• Clean-up time was a headache this week, though. Some were slow, some were fast, others would clean up and then go get out more toys. It was a game I did not want to play! But when I was talking to my friend Amy (see previous post) on the way to class, she suggested that I don't need to have all the children come to circle time together. Excuse those who are done cleaning, and be prepared with engaging activities so that they will want to clean up faster. Not having them all their together was a novel idea for me, but we gave it a try on the last day of class and what a difference!!!

Also, for your enjoyment there are two posts that follow this one. Just wanted to let you know. Enjoy!!!