Every Child Matters: Truth & Reconciliation

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 begun learning about Indigenous people of Canada, 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 the Cree book Awasis and the World Famous Bannock, and then we gave this traditional recipe a try! Measuring a teamwork played a big part in making bannock ...

... but tasting was the highlight!

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 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 Run: Being the Hands of Feet of Christ

 While today was our official run, preparations for our Terry Fox Run began earlier this week.

Together 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 opportunity to be the hands and feet of Christ for others. 

Building Strong Connections

Before we can learn and grow, we need to understand and trust one another. 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 eachother. 

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". 

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 hello!

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 making paninis, pirate books, visits from cousins, new bikes and more!

4. Social Scenario Problem Solving
To help the children develop age-appropriate critical thinking skills, they are presented with a social 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 problems" (smaller) or "elephant problems" (bigger), and how 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 pushes ahead of you in line
• you notice a friend crying at their desk but don't know why
• someone wants to be your partner but you don't want to work with them

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 a few we have enjoyed already:

While Connection Time seems packed, it rolls along 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 strengthening our roots before setting off to tackle the challenges each day!

The Dot: Make Your Mark!

Today's challenge all began with a book called The Dot! This book encourages children to embrace their own creativity and uniqueness and take a risk! It encourages kids to make a positive mark on the world! 

Using dots and paper strips, plus heaps of creativity, we made spectacular 3D art!

Such colorful, joyful dots! 

Keep making your mark on the world, kiddos! You are amazing little humans who will change the world!

We Are A 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 beaded 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 & love!