My students need representation in the classroom. The Washable Baby Dolls and the Block Play People will provide students the opportunity to play with toys that represent their diversity. We also need 3-D builders, books, and other dramatic play toys!
Our school has over 400 students, 71% of which are identified as low-income, and 13% who receive Special Education Services. Our school is made up of a diverse group of children from all walks of life. While 29% of the students are English Language Learners, in my particular program, English Language Learners make up roughly half of my students. Many students in our school have been involved in traumatic childhood experiences, such as homelessness, domestic abuse, hunger, and have had exposure to drugs and alcohol use. That being said, we are committed to viewing our students with an asset lens so that we can focus on their social, emotional, and academic growth, preparing them to be ready for college, a career, or a positive roll in their community.
Families who have chosen our program are especially committed to raising students who are bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural, so that they can participate and lead on a more global scale.
I particularly feel committed to this group of students as I know they will grow up to be active in their community and positive agents for change in the world.
My Project
We need to play! Kindergarten is prime time for building social skills and practicing them. We weave in our content standards of studying families and community helpers during our unstructured play time.
Dressing up as a community helper is the best way to interact with the roles and responsibilities of the job!
Students will love using the block dolls and baby dolls to explore family structure and diversity. The magnetic blocks provide stimulating mathematical conversation while also engaging those who choose to build instead of play dramatically.
Learning through play is what kindergarten should be about, and I hope to get back to basics for my students in the fall.
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