1. Welcome to Kindergarten Mrs. Julie Varlese Mrs. Andrea HalasMrs. Liz Capuano Mrs. Julie Varlese Mrs. Andrea HalasMrs. Liz Capuano jvarlese@berkleyschools.org ahalas@berkleyschools.org ecapuano@berkleyschools.org 248-837-8844248-837-8845248-837-8846 248-837-8844248-837-8845248-837-8846

2. Agenda Introductions Curriculum Packet Volunteering Opportunities- Scholastic, classroom, field trips Treasure Box Conference sign-up Questions

3. Social and Emotional Development The social and emotional aspect of learning is just as important as the academic part, if not more important. The ability to succeed in the world today clearly relates to a high self-esteem and the ability to work with others. Children who are listened to, taken seriously and genuinely cared for succeed in life. Many activities in kindergarten are directly related to respecting ourselves, other people, and all of our capabilities.

4. These skills are practiced throughout the year: Self confidence Curiosity for learning Zip, tie, button, snap Responsibility Self-control Good citizenship Peer mediation-working out problems verbally Respect of others and self Participation- trying new things Listening Taking turns Following directions Manners Sharing Decision making

5. Literacy and Mathematics Readers Workshop Whole group and small group reading instruction Independent Reading Time Phonemic awareness Read aloud every day Daily message Lucy Calkins Writing Workshop Weekly library time Everyday Math Program Spiral effect-introduced to many skills that will be built upon in future years Daily math Large and small group instruction Games Skills links- homework Computer time- to explore math games

6. Science and Social Studies Life Science What are the basic requirements of all living things? How are animal babies like their young? How can we describe sort objects/organisms. What tools do scientists use? Physical Science How do we describe things around us? How do things move around us? Earth Science What earth materials are used to grow food? What do plants need to live? Geography Where do I live? How does the kind of place I live in affect what I do? (weather, city/rural, mapping) History What has changed since I was born? How does time help us? *past, present, future *clocks and calendars Economics What is a good trade? Civics What would home/school be like without rules?

7. Kindergarten Homework Read, Read, Read, Every Night!!! Read-at-home program RAH- meet the monthly goal Everyday Math skills links-weekly or biweekly Newsletter- “at home activities” section Weekly Homework- Check take-home folder ****Papers sent home will indicate when homework is due, this may be the next day or by the end of the week. Please, work with your child so he/she sees the importance of the work as well as receives the support needed. Make sure that it is in by the stated due date.

8. Classroom Rules and Expectations Classroom Rules I will always do my best I will never bother anyone while they are learning If rules are broken: Verbal warning about inappropriate behavior Ask to go to “calm down” area for 5 min. to get control of behavior Note home/phone call home Sent to the office

9. Healthy Habits to help your Kindergartner have a great year! Start bed time routine early!! Children ages 5 and 6 years old should get at least 10-12 hours of sleep a night. Snacks should contain healthy food groups. Practice proper hygiene at home like hand washing. Dress your child for success!! Comfortable clothing and shoes are suggested every day. Rogers school policy requires no flip flops, thin strap tank tops, and clothing with suggestive words. Get off to a great start every morning!!! Your child will have a much more successful and productive day after a stress free morning. Have clothing set out and backpacks ready. Make lunches the night before to avoid the rush in the morning and ALWAYS eat a healthy breakfast before arriving at school!!!