October 24-28

Hi everyone,

The children are busy this week reading, writing and counting a variety of spooky things! Please watch for the booklet "Counting Pumpkins" and encourage your child to read it to you. We continue to work on oral counting and I've already had a number of students beat their previous records! Bravo!

Also watch for the 'Halloween Word Book'. Students brainstormed a list of Halloween words and then practised their letter formation by copying the words in the book.

Your child will also be bringing home some creepy crafts on Friday...!

SHOW AND SHARE

Thanks to all of you for participating in our monthly Show and Share. Please note that although there is a schedule, it is somewhat fluid! Just watch for the Show and Share case to come home and then you'll know it's your child's turn! Often, parents need an extra night, a child forgets the case, or someone is away, so the schedule needs to be adjusted. Thank you for your patience!

PICTURE ORDERS

Student photos were sent home today and orders are to be returned FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28. Please check your envelope for the re-take date (I will verify and post, shortly).

ZIAD'S PARTY!

Please check your child's Note Tote for an invitation to Ziad's Halloween party! Ziad's Mom has asked that a reminder invite be sent home on Friday, so watch for that and don't forget to RSVP (see invitation for details). Have fun!

CLASS HALLOWEEN PARTY

We will have a little Halloween party on Monday afternoon. Children are welcome to wear a costume, or dress in orange and black. Feel free to send in a nut-free treat for the children to share (but not too much--we always end up with tons!!). Thanks so much!

ELP PROGRAM

I am happy to share that our Board's Early Literacy Program is now up and running thanks to our volunteer, Emily and co-op student, Shanice. Essentially, the Board sends a bin of books each month with a 'reading behaviours' checklist for the volunteers to fill out after reading with each student. The one-on-one reading time is very popular with the students and it helps me monitor and assess their developing reading skills.

THINGS TO WORK ON AT HOME

As always, please continue talking and reading with your child each night. I will be sending home a letter identification sheet for you to complete with your child. Please point to the letters randomly and ask your child to tell you the name of the letter and the sound it makes. Ask your child to give you a word that begins with that letter.You do not need to send the sheet back. Lots of repetition, letter games, books and puzzles will help your child develop his/her literacy skills. There are also plenty of great websites, including www.starfall.com, or www.hubbardscupboard.org. Happy reading!

Thank you for checking in!

Warm regards,
Ms. Cox