Community Helpers Come to PK!

We wrapped up the Community Helpers unit and the kids had a blast meeting three new helpers! Here is a look at our week:

We had a special visit from Officer Wright from the Evanston Police Department.  She explained to the kids how she keeps the community and us safe and we were able to see her tool belt with handcuffs and a radio. We did pushups, sit-ups, and ran in place to train like a police officer.

William’s dad, Mr. Hunter, surprised the kiddos and shared the exciting aspects about being a firefighter. He spoke about his career and answered many questions from the kids. One of their favorite parts from his visit was bringing in his fire gear to try on! The kiddos took turns dressing in his boots, pants, coat and hardhat. They got a kick out of this.  

Next, we met a dentist Dr. Chip and learned why it is important to keep our teeth and mouth clean by brushing our teeth twice a day! We sang and danced to two songs about keeping the sugar bugs away and staying healthy!

Morning Meeting

We read a variety of community helper books about a dentist, train conductor, firefighter, and police officer. A highlight from this week was creating a class bar graph about what they wanted to be when they grew up. The kids used their picture to graph their future careers. It was amusing to hear their responses. 

Centers

In language arts the kids read a community helpers story and circled sight words and went on a letter hunt.  In math they counted the dots on the ten frame and matched that number to the corresponding digit on the fire truck. They did an awesome job and were very independent! Next, the kids rolled the dice and counted that number of cookies to put in the cookie jar.  At the fine motor center the kids worked on a community helper puzzle where they matched the profession with their tool. They also tested their memory skills in a matching game.

  

Small groups

In reading groups the kiddos read the Bob series books and did a variety of word and letter work games. The kids were challenged at their ability level.  In art they constructed a tool belt.  We discussed and colored 5 different tools that the community helpers need to be successful in their jobs and why they were important. They colored and cut out these tools and glued to a belt.  Cutting with scissors was a challenge, so we will continue to reinforce this skill in the upcoming weeks! In journals the children drew pictures of them as a community helper and expressed their interest in this job.  The independent center this week was the post office.

Next week

We will begin an author study about Mo Willems and read the Piggie and Elephant series as well as the story, Knuffle Bunny!