Preschool

Some friends recently started a co-op preschool and invited me to join. We pitched in on a curriculum, and are taking turns team teaching. Anna and I kicked things off, teaching both last week and this week. We survived, and so did the kids (ha ha). Today was trying, but I think it's because they had become too comfortable with my house and each other. Good thing they'll be at Angie's next week! Here are some pictures highlighting the first week.


Ready to go, back pack and all!


Zoey, Ben, Aly, Tyler, Abby, Chloe, Cassidy and Annelise (yes, you counted right. That's 8 kids!)

Exploring the world of goop (cornstarch, water and green food coloring that is)


Coloring...


And more coloring...

Last week's theme was 'Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss'. We celebrated with several of his books and activities that corresponded, decorating and enjoying cupcakes, exploring solids and liquids, coloring and snacking. This week's theme was 'You Are What You Eat'. We talked about the food groups and planted grass seeds in styrofoam cups. Monday we made pretzels, and today we taste tested countless fruits and veggies, then finished the morning with homemade peach ice cream. My kitchen was sticky and disgusting but it was so worth it. My ice cream maker will definitely NOT be gathering dust again for a while.

One thing Anna and I quickly learned was the power of food and music! Anytime "snack" was mentioned or one of us started singing, those little ears perked right up! Funny how that works.

Chloe has struggled a lot, particularly this week. To begin with, she's a {precious} little snot who thinks she has the authority to boss anyone around at any time. That combined with the new experience of preschool alone, not to mention the fact that it's (so far) taken place in her home, which has required her to share her toys and mom with seven other 3 year olds, has made for a challenging beginning (wow, that was a long sentence). And I'm sure the added excitement of Grandma Jill's visit last week didn't help anything. I am hoping that the changes of next week turn a new page. I keep reminding myself that Chloe's strong will will someday serve her well. And while I absolutely believe that to be true, it doesn't make this stage any easier.

Despite the challenges we faced, I know Chloe has enjoyed herself overall. When she thinks I'm not listening, I can hear her softly singing the songs we've learned, and she wears her 'One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish' crown almost everywhere. I am optimistically curious to see how the next several weeks go.