Dear Parents,
     This week in the classroom we introduced our Purim unit.  We used puppets to introduce the main characters of the Purim story, King Achashverosh, Queen Vashti, Queen Esther, Mordechai, and Haman.  They joined us during Davening time and even snack time. Here are some more highlights of our week:

Basket Design 

One of our fine motor activities this week was basket weaving. We practiced making Shalach Manot baskets for our friends, one of the mizvot of Purim.  Our used friends cut up pieces of foam and empty baskets to weave the strips of foam through the holes of the baskets.  Through weaving our friends learn patterning, critical thinking skills, and problem solving.  Weaving in and out in a pattern, helps to refine their eye/hand coordination.  They also cross the midline, which reinforces brain development between the right and left hemispheres.

Group project

We painted and made crowns for costumes inspired by a the book, 'Sammy Spider's First Purim.'  Our friends have shown great progress in learning how to share.  Morah Felicia only set out 3 plates of paint and there were six friends painting.  Everyone worked beautifully together without any conflict arising! Way to go!

Sensory 

At our sensory table this week we explored and discovered sound.  With different size bottles and cans we added different loose parts to the containers to make various sounds.  Some sounds were loud and some were soft.   Next week we'll learn when to shake and make noise with our silly graggers.

Dramatic Play

The children loved playing in our Royal castle this week!  They baked Hamantaschen for one another, served up juice and meals on fancy plates and royal goblets.

Next week we will continue to explore Purim and don't forget to participate in spirit week starting on the 14th!  We can't wait to see what everyone comes up with. 

Wishing you a restful Shabbos.   

Morah Felicia and Morah Menucha