Dear Parents,

     This week in the classroom we introduced our Purim unit.  We used peg 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

                                                             

                                                                          Playdoh/Fine motor

Our friends use homemade playdoh to create their own crowns and use gems to embellish the tops of the crowns. Our Blue friends worked their fine motor skills as they pushed small beads into the playdoh.  

                                                                

Basket Design 

One of our fine motor activities on Friday 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.

Sensory

This week we explored salt trays and gems.  Using a  salt tray is an excellent way to promote writing skills incorporated with sensory experiences.   Our friends drew circles and lines around the gems..

 

Tzedakah

One of the four mitzvahs of Purim is giving Tzedakah.  Our friends practiced their fine motor skills as they were invited to give Tzedakah as an activity.  Tzedakah is giving to those in need.   The children were fascinated by the sound the coins made as they hit the bottom of the can.  They noticed the sound changed as the can became fuller.

Next week we will continue our Purim unit and have Spirit week! Enjoy your weekend,

Morah Felicia