October: Not a Box
Hello Parents, Teachers, and Child Care Providers!
This month’s story is about reflecting on our personal story and what is important to each child. We often measure ourselves, our belongings, our experiences to others. Around the holidays and school breaks, that can be wonderful or sad for children. We hope this First Fridays edition helps each child find their voice on what is important, special, and wonderful to them.
Join us in reading, The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson.
The Day You Begin: Read Along!
As we move into the season where many of us choose to gather with family, friends, and loved ones to share moments of gratitude and memories, here is a heartfelt activity that is sure to bring connection with one another.
We each have a unique voice that can only be shared when we learn to open ourselves up to others through the power of storytelling.
This activity will help little ones with their presentation skills while they learn how to share their authentic selves with peers in the supportive environment you’ve created.
You will need:
- A container. Could be a tin the child keeps their treasures in, or a cup they like, or a cardboard box they’ve decorated.
- Ask the child to collect three safe and appropriate items that represent a memory or story for them. These storytelling treasures could be a pinecone from the park, a button from their favorite sweater, a marker they love to color with etc.
Sharing their voice:
1. Have children think about the unique story they wish to share.
2. Gather their storytelling treasures in their container.
3. Sit with friends and show their items as they share their stories!
A Song!
This song encourages the cultivation of friendship, cultural diversity, and understanding through the telling of our stories.
And please send us photos of your little reading, or sharing their story. Email us at eceresourcecenter@crystalstairs.org if we can share the imaginative cardboard box creations you and your little ones brought to life!