Holidays are coming...

Well as much as much as we would love to continue learning about Autumn, as snow has fallen in much of the country, there is no denying that winter has arrived and with it, Christmas is on its way. 
The children were learning the Nativity story this week using our new set of "Story Spoons" to help them act out each of the characters. They are very excited and already taking on their roles for the Nativity which we will be starting to film in the coming week. 

We've also started practising our songs for the Nativity (I apologise in advance for the constant refrains of "Little Donkey" that I am sure you are experiencing at home right now). They've also been practising rhythms and patterns with Miss Boyce in music.

The children helped me to build our new drying rack for our paintings this week. They are becoming much more confident using tools and really love helping to develop our classroom as more brilliant new things are arriving. ​

Many of the children moved up a group in phonics this week. We are incredibly impressed with the progress they are making in their reading and writing. Thank you all for your help with reading and practising sounds at home - it really makes a huge difference and is paying dividends in class. As the weeks go on, you may notice that your child's books may change as they begin moving up through the levels. I am sure you will be glad too as they learn to read more words and have different stories to read to you each night. 
Next week, Christmas begins in earnest in Oak class. We will be decorating our tree on Wednesday and I am certain that Elfina is going to be up to her old tricks... be sure to ask the children what she's been up to each day. 
We have our Christmas Post Box set up now so if you want to start Christmas cards, feel free to post them into the box when you come to school in the morning. 
Thank you to everyone who has sent in material to make costumes with - I am going to be very busy at the sewing machine this week I think!
Hope you have all had a lovely weekend and are refreshed and ready for the coming run up to Christmas!
From Miss Prince and the Team.