As I am writing this article it is hard to believe that November is already here.  We have had such a beautiful fall and we’re all hoping that this wonderful weather continues.  The children need to have outside activity for their gross motor development and all the teachers are hoping that we can be outside for a while longer (maybe until Winter Break)!  When it starts to get cooler, please send your child with hats and mittens so that they are comfortable.  Putting hats and mittens on is a good practical life activity too.

The children have settled into a nice routine in the classroom.  We have been exploring all different areas.  This month we will be learning about how the early pioneers lived. The 3-6 year classrooms will all visit the Arlington Heights Historical Society (you will receive information from your child’s classroom teacher).  We talk about what pioneers ate and what games they played and we get to see what their houses looked like back when there was no electricity or indoor plumbing.

We learn about turkeys and Pilgrims and Indians.  The children will also have the opportunity to talk about what they are thankful for in their lives.  This month we do collect canned goods for the Wheeling Township Food Pantry so that more in our community may have a brighter holiday.  The children usually are quite excited to help with this project and bring what they enjoy to share.

Teachers will be offering conferences this month.  You may still sign up for an observation for your child’s classroom too.  Parents are often surprised by what they see in the classroom so please make an appointment.  Your child loves it when you visit.

Right before Thanksgiving Break, all the classrooms have a Thanksgiving feast.  Each class celebrates in their own way.  My class has a typical feast with turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.  We make Indian headbands and Pilgrim hats and all sit together at one long table like the First Thanksgiving and imagine what it was like living way back then!

I am thankful for all my wonderful students and their families and wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving.