This week in our classroom, we focused on naming and expressing emotions. The children are learning a new song, “Hello, Hello, How Are You?” which incorporates hand motions and facial expressions to match different feelings. At the end of the song, each child has the opportunity to point to the feeling they are experiencing. Lately, many of them have been choosing “tired” or “surprised,” which has been so sweet to see! We will continue this song for the remainder of the month.
Giving children the language to name their feelings is an important first step in helping them eventually express those feelings in healthy ways. We remind them that all feelings, including sadness and anger, are okay. What matters most is how we respond to those feelings.
We also practice strategies to help our bodies when we experience big toddler emotions. We take deep breaths, pause together, and talk about what our bodies might need in that moment — sometimes that’s a quiet space, and sometimes it’s a big hug.
Also, we celebrated another friend’s third birthday. Happy Birthday to our sweet friend!
Food Tasting: This week, for food tasting, we explored the vibrant beet! The children had the opportunity to observe and handle the beet in its whole form, complete with its long stalks and leafy greens. We talked about how the beet is a root vegetable—meaning the round, colorful part grows underground, while the stalks and leaves grow above the soil.
After taking time to explore its texture, shape, and beautiful deep color, the children were invited to taste the roasted beet.
Love and Light,
Cynthia and Sara
