I have a classroom of lovable five and six year olds in Manchester, New Hampshire.
These kiddos make me laugh everyday and I truly enjoy spending time with them. We certainly have our ups and downs, but I feel like I am making a difference in their lives....they have made it in mine.
As with most classrooms, there is a wide range of ability. What amazes me, is the way they support one another when someone gets hurt or is sad. They love giving hugs to each other, as well as with their three class pets....Clifford, Biscuit and Blackie(Black Lab.) During center time, I often see collaboration to complete certain tasks or provide help with a new activity. I owe a lot to Responsive Classroom and the "CARES" approach, to instill a sense of community and a family like atmosphere.
I hope I have created a picture in your mind of the Roberts' Kindergarten. If you choose to help our classroom, we would really appreciate it!
My Project
I have chosen several Lego sets to purchase, that will become part of our "construction" center. Students love to build and transform their ideas into great creations! These sets are a means to that end. The vehicle sets will become key players with our "transportation" theme. I have several little boys who absolutely love Thomas the Tank, Bob the Builder and anything that honks or has a siren. The Farming Set, will be a nice addition to a small barn that I have started letting them use in the "Free Choice" area.
The social piece is so important in the early years and our school has adopted the "play-based" approach.
Legos provide the platform for kiddos to communicate their ideas with one another, rather than just parallel play. Along with expressing ideas, comes conflict and how to handle one's self appropriately. My project encompasses all of this.
I also use Legos as a positive reinforcement tool. There are times when a struggling student needs an extra break or has been working hard and a treat is in order. These sets will come in handy.
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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. Roberts and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
