What a fantastic start to the new school year we have had! It has been lovely to welcome everyone back and to see the children settling into their new class, getting to know their new routines, new friends and making lots of happy memories along the way.
We have been very busy exploring, creating, playing and learning together. One of our first activities was reading ‘The Colour Monster’, which gave us a lovely opportunity to talk about colours and also different feelings and emotions. The children enjoyed thinking about how they feel and exploring the different colours associated with our emotions. We explored patterns and mixing colours on our tuff tray.
We have also been developing our mark-making, pattern and fine motor skills through lots of fun, hands-on activities. From writing and colouring to puzzles and creative tasks, the children have been practising those important little movements that help to build strength, coordination and confidence for writing .
We have also enjoyed spending time reading, writing, colouring and playing games, giving everyone opportunities to explore their interests and work at their own pace.
Each day, we also make time for ‘Braincalm’, giving the children a chance to pause, relax and reset. These quiet moments help us to recognise the importance of looking after our minds and bodies and prepare us for the learning ahead.
Taking our learning outdoors, we went on a nature walk around our local area. We enjoyed looking at the birds, trees and environment around us, noticing what we could see and talking about nature and our surroundings. It was a lovely opportunity to learn beyond the classroom and enjoy some fresh air together.
Of course, there has been lots of time for playing with our friends too. We have been building relationships, sharing, taking turns and learning how to work and play together as a class. It has been wonderful to see friendships beginning to develop and the children becoming increasingly comfortable in their new surroundings.
We also made our own playdough! The children enjoyed getting involved in the process and have loved playing with their own playdough daily. We also had a Playdough Disco! There was lots of squeezing, rolling, stretching and shaping — all while having plenty of fun!
Most importantly, we are incredibly proud of how well the children have settled into their new class. There have been lots of new experiences, new routines and new friendships, and the children have approached them with enthusiasm, curiosity and growing confidence.We are looking forward to all the exciting learning, adventures and fun that the rest of the school year will bring!
Togher Boys' National School 