During Jesus time this morning we learned about the angel visiting Mary to tell her that she would have a baby - Jesus our Savior!  We learned that the angel visited Joseph as well.  The people had waited a long time for the Savior.  We don't have to wait because the Savior, Jesus, has come!  He was born, died on the cross, and rose again to save us from our sins!

During small group time we played with the concept that numbers can be composed and decomposed to make new numbers.  The children had five  pom pom balls ("ornaments") and used them to decorate two trees.  We discussed how there were five ornaments in all, but two were on one tree and three on he other.  We then mixed them up and tried again.  We found many different ways to make five! 

 This week in small group time we are working to increase our letter knowledge.  God created all children unique, and success is unique for each child. Success for some children is identifying all of the letters.  Success for some children is identifying the sounds of the letters.  Success for other children is identifying the letter by the beginning sound of a word.  We work with all children's success and work to scaffold them to the next level of success. 

We worked to paint a paper that we will use for the star for our collaborative nativity.

The friends also built in the blocks. 

Outside time

During free choice time the friends were excited to explore all of the beads in the sensory table. 

It became very congested and we had some problems that we decided to stop and solve the problems together.  Allowing the problem to happen, allowing the children to identify the problem, and allowing them to be a part of the problem solving process strengthens their problem solving skills.  Had I initially said, "Only two friends at the beads."  We would have lost this opportunity to strengthen our problem solving skills. 

First, we identified the problems. 

1.  Only one friend is cleaning.

2. Taking beads out of people's hands.

3. Too many friends.

Then, we discussed solutions to the problems. 

1.  "Be nice and clean up with others."

2. "Don't take beads from people." 

3. "Only two friends.  Use a sign up sheet for turns." 

Second outside time

Second free choice

We went to a pep rally this afternoon too! :) 

We have a new mascot! So fun!