Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Thanksgiving Feast

Today the Scientists were invited to a feast hosted by the All Stars to celebrate Thanksgiving. Fun was had by all. There was lots of chatter and laughing and most importantly eating. The Scientist class made cornbread and also brought sliced apples. The All Stars served carrots, cucumbers, celery, popcorn and delicious biscuits. So if your child is not hungry for lunch you will know why. We wish you all a wonderful, safe and happy holiday with your families.
Happy Thanksgiving!!!
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Giving Thanks

What does it truly mean to be thankful for one's blessings? For a three year it old, we asked what is it in their lives that makes them sooo happy? Some friends said, toys, mommy, and daddy. It is good to know those we love are right up there with the "things". As they mature we are certain that family members will be forefront in their thankfulness.
We also learned that the Jewish people thanked G-d for his protection thousands of years ago, in the festival of Sukkot.
May everyone enjoy a wonderful celebration with family and friends and safe travels.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Food Offered with Loving Care

Today, Sam C. introduced me to his baby. Sam carefully sat the baby up in the high chair in the class kitchen. He examined the array of foods on the table and thought about which foods the baby would like. He chose plates for each offering, and supported the baby's head as he offered a tasty ear of corn. Next, he offered grapes. Sam then took a call from his grandpa. It was a busy day for a proud papa in the Rainbow classroom today.

Fine Motor Development with a Festive Flair

The Rainbows explored small, medium, and large bowls in the sensory table which was filled with water and sprinkled with cranberries. They practiced spooning, scooping, pouring, stirring, and draining with the berries that are regularly shared at the traditional Thanksgiving table. Perhaps some of the children will get a chance to help out at home with some food preparation projects over the coming days!













Today's play dough creations were adorned with Hanukkah candles. Forming the base for a menorah was a challenge, and little fingers worked hard at inserting, arranging, and balancing the colorful candles as well.

Real Chefs!

The Critics Rave:

" It feels sticky."-Isaiah

" The sauce is messy."-Nathaniel

"I like a lot of cheese on mine."-Teddy F

"I love pizza!"-Sam P

"I don't like pizza."-Eric

"Can I help put it in the oven?"-Jay

"I can't wait to take it out of the oven!"-Sam R

Today Jay, Sam R and Eric carried the pizza down to the oven. As we were walking, Jay said proudly, "We are real chefs!" Sam followed with, "Yeah we are cooks and chefs!" Then I asked the boys to list some of the things the Lunch Bunch chefs made or prepared over the past several weeks. Eric started us off: pretend soup, lemonade, raisin cookies...and the list went on! Then Jay suggested that we open our own restaurant! We all thought that was a great idea! Cooking sure is fun!





Make an edible Hanukiah: A family activity

Try making an edible Hanukiah one night this year. Perhaps it will become an annual tradition. For a lunch or snack time version, try these healthier substitutions.
Healthy Variations:
1. Cream cheese as “glue”
2. Breadsticks for candles
3. Carrot curls for flames
4. Crackers for drip pans
5. Hard cheese as base
6. Nuts and raisins to decorate

Let us know how it turns out!


Playing in the Leaves!

Does this bring back memories? This just goes to show you that some types of outdoor play never go out of style.  As you can see, the children had a ball playing in the leaves!