Health & Safety

We were so lucky to have a planned visit from the paramedics at the end of February. It was the perfect way to learn more about taking care of others and added to some of the interactions in the 'health clinic' we had set up in the dramatic play area.

 

Students learned about calling 911, applying pressure to wounds, and wrapping bandages on to their stuffed patients.

 And one volunteer even was able to try on some paramedic gear. A paramedic jacket was donated to our dress up collection even.

 Pulling a bag of paramedic gear is very hard work. Best done with some help.

 And of course we were able to climb into he ambulance and have a good around.

 There were a lot of first aid supplies in there.

A special thanks to Mr. Walker (paramedic & parent) for arranging a special visit for us!

 

Dramatic Play

Dramatic Play is one of my favorite things about preschool. I can still remember being 5 years old and wanting to spend every moment of my school day in the 'home play' area dressing up, cooking, and using the phone. At Meadowlark there are numerous opportunities for creative and imaginative play even outside of the dramatic play area.

 

~Talking on the phone~



 ~Learning how to balance in heels like mom~

 ~Cowboys camping out and Super Heroes~

 ~Health Clinic~

 ~The Doctors are In~

 ~Cowboy riding his horse~

 ~Rescuing the Ladybug (puzzle)~

 ~Pirates building their ship~

I love watching students that have gotten so into their role that even after cleaning up, they join circle time still in full costume without a thought. It is my hope that the experiences and joy from this type of dramatic play in preschool stays with them long into their adult years.

Valentine's Day 2013

First there were the pre-party preparations. The children were very busy all morning baking, decorating, and setting up.

 

 

Then, there was the Valentine's Day party!

 

And the birthday cake celebrating the age of 4 and the friendship between children.

 

 

And the notes passed out to each of their classmates.

 

Such a fun day of friendship, sharing, and love!

Using 'Real' Objects In Learning

Using 'real' objects in the learning environment adds so much interest for the children. They show respect for the delicate items, awe for the items usually deemed "off limits", and excitement in using the things usually saved for adults. Here are some of the 'real' objects we have used in our learning recently.

 

 ~Pouring lentils using glass cups and metal gravy boats.~

~Everyone tries walking in grown-up heels.~

~Tiny Shells, Small & Large Rocks, Dried Moss, all in glass jars on the science table.~

~Hammers & Nails to practice the 'real work' of hammering in the yard.~

Outdoor Time

So much learning happens even outside of the classroom.

 

~Motion and Balance~

 ~Risk Taking~

 ~Group Interactions and Cooperative Play~

 ~Sharing and Communication~

~Real Work~

~Sharing~

 ~Learning Through the Senses & Nature~