When my students enter their classroom, it is important that they feel excited, safe, and happy to be there. Having a sense of community helps develop and build their social skills. A major part of First grade is developing a good relationship with reading. First graders are working on not only how to read, but more importantly, how to love reading.
My First graders are always ready for a new adventure!
Whether it's listening to a new story that may take them away to an imaginary land, or dancing away to a new math song that helps them with their counting skills. Much of our day is spent collaborating with each other, sharing our thinking, and supporting one another with our learning.
With all the different personalities, learning styles, and special individual needs, we all find a way to make each day fun! My first graders are a big part in how the classroom functions. They are always asked to share their ideas, their feelings, and what they like/dislike. My students are encouraged to be who they are and to be proud of that! Acceptance and kind acts/words are expected behaviors with each other.
My Project
Building a classroom where children feel safe, loved, accepted, and excited to be is a priority to me. My First graders come to school excited to be part of a community that is full of collaboration, teamwork, and building relationships. Physical activity throughout the day is very important to help with brain stimulation and attention span. There is also a part of the day, when the children have quiet reading time. This is a calm, quiet time when the child needs their own personal space.
Developing a relationship with books and a love for reading is my number one goal in my classroom!
Book Boats and rockers are tools that will help each child have that personal space to explore all kinds of books. In order to make the Book Boats, I will need six 30 gallon plastic tubs (with lids), small sailboat pillows for the students to rest their backs on in the tubs, and I am also requesting a reading rocker chair to put into my reading garden for some more choice. These simple reading tools will allow each student another flexible seating choice during self reading time. As Dr. Seuss said, "You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book."
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Fossen and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.