Every Child Matters

Learning about the truth of our history from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit knowledge keepers is an important part of the path to Reconciliation. This week we took time each day to learn and grow with an open heart and open mind.

We have already been learning about Indigenous people, and this was an excellent way to understand the meaning of the word "Indigenous":

The tradition of storytelling is vital in Indigenous culture, and our week of learning is reflected in the many stories we read. 

We read a beautiful Anishinaabe story called Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox. Being connected to the land and nature is woven through Indigenous culture. We reflected on the qualities portrayed by various animals in this book and shared which animal meant the most to us. 

We shared Awasis and the World Famous Bannock! Did you try the bannock recipe together at home?

Out on the land, we read the Cree story When the Trees Crackle with Cold, a book exploring seasonal changes. Then we got our "nature trappers" and hunted for beauty in our forest!

We discussed the value of each person. We are made with love and intention, and are all children of God. We had some challenging and insightful conversations as we shared Phyllis Webstad's book With our Orange Hearts. We discussed residential schools and reflected on how students should feel in school. 

Then we carefully created orange lanterns that can shine and remind us how important every child is. 

We were so proud to light them in the Chapel and gather in prayer:

Though our week has ended, learning the truth about Canada's history and deepening our understanding of the First Nations, Metis and Inuit cultures has only just begun. 

Terry Fox: Love in Action

While today was our official run, preparations for our Terry Fox Run began days ago.

In class we thought critically about heroes. We know that superheroes in movies have special powers, like invisibility, super strength, or shooting webs. Then we considered real life heroes, like healthcare workers, firefighters, police officers, and more. Their special qualities might include helpfulness, bravery, or kindness. We all agreed that Terry Fox is absolutely a hero because of his generous, loving heart. 

We brainstormed heroes in our own lives; family members, school staff, coaches, and more!

We were bursting with enthusiasm as we ran, skipped, walked, and  danced our way around the school yard for our own Terry Fox Run! 

Jesus calls us to show love to others, just like Terry did. Today was a beautiful day to be the hands and feet of Christ for others. 

Hero Lesson adapted from Terry Fox Foundation

Morning Connection Time

Before we can learn and grow, we need to feel safe and loved. This is why, each morning, we begin our day with "Connection Time"! This invaluable time helps us ease into a busy day and prepare us for our best learning!

When we gather, we sit in a circle on the rug so we can see each other.

Have a peek at some highlights from our morning Connection Time meetings:

1. Prayer
God is at the center of all we do and all we are, and we always begin in prayer. "Father in Heaven, I give You today, all that I think, and do, and say. Amen". Look at us pray with actions!

2. Say Hello!
We have learned the importance of eye contact when greeting our classmates. While we have practiced our eye contact while giving a firm handshake, we also say hello in silly ways, too, like the stinky shoe greeting and goofy dances!

3. News
This time allows the students an opportunity to share what's on their minds, thereby helping us focus on learning later in the day. News can be both good or bad, and everyone is given an opportunity to share if they wish. So far we have heard about skating lessons, birthdays, farm animals, new pets, and more!

4. Social Scenario Problem Solving
To help the children develop age-appropriate critical thinking skills, they are presented with a social skills problem to solve. In partners, they brainstorm possible ways to solve the problem and then we come together as a large group to share and discuss. 

We talk about how some problems are "mouse-sized problems" (small) or "elephant-sized problems" (big), and small problems don't require an elephant-sized reaction. 

Some of the problems we have tackled include:

• not being able to find your indoor shoe after recess
• a classmate shoves ahead of you in the line
• you notice a friend crying at their desk but don't know why
• someone pushes you at recess

It is important for the students to see that there is no one way to solve a problem and that they do not always need an adult's help. 

5. Story
We close Connection Time with a story. Each book is carefully chosen and has an important lesson.

Here are some stories we have already enjoyed:

While Connection Time seems packed, it rolls along rather quickly and sets a positive tone for our day! This is time very well-spent and enjoyed. Connection time truly is about building relationships and seeing the light in all of us!

Meet Our Classroom Family!

Our adventure together has begun! Our focus during our first few days has been on creating a strong sense of belonging, safety, trust, and community. This is where the richest learning occurs.

We shared a wonderful story, Our Class is a Family, and each made a name bracelet! We all belong!

Then we created posters featuring how we can show kindness to our classroom family!

Our hall looks INCREDIBLE!

We'll continue to build our classroom community with intention, care, and lots of laughter. 

Meet our sparkly, energetic, and joyful Grade One family!

We are in for one awesome journey together! Buckle up and stay tuned for all of the fun that awaits!