December 2013

Hi Everyone,

Throughout the month of November Lila class focused on learning about Health and Nutrition.  We began by talking about how various food groups help our bodies (protein is good for our muscles and helps us have energy, dairy helps us have strong teeth and bones, etc). I noticed many children examining their own lunches with a new understanding. The children had a great time preparing vegetable soup with Vinni, Meera's mom.  Mmm, it was so good! There was a popular Magnetic Meal work that allowed children the opportunity to practice creating balanced meals on their own. Children also enjoyed using a Wooden Food Prep work and a silverware sorting work. Next we discussed how exercise increases heart rate and blood flow, and helps our muscles become stronger. We did group yoga a few times and there was an independent yoga work available that got quite a bit of use. Finally, we talked about the things we can do to stay well. We spoke about wellness checks with the doctor and dentist, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning our bodies, and brushing our teeth. We emphasized the various times during the day when it is necessary to wash our hands. I still have children approach me to present their freshly washed hands to me for an approving sniff :) We closed out the month by making a healthy fruit salad with Julianna's mom, Jenelle. The children enjoyed eating it when we had our banquet-style lunch (our Thanksgiving Feast).

During December we will focus our learning on the country of India. We will talk about and look at common Indian dress, listen to cultural music, and make some of the everyday food common in india. To help us do so, we will have a guest parent come to share a bit about Indian culture and Heritage. Another parent will be joining us to make Naan bread. In addition to this, we will also be learning about elephants (where they live, what they eat, etc.)

Best Regards, Nancy