This Decem
ber, our preschool room was filled with excitement as we kicked off the holiday season by decorating our classroom together. The children helped assemble our Christmas tree, working as a team to wrap tinsel
and place the ornaments, even helping friends to reach the higher branches. We also created Christmas tree ornaments using coloured glue, pom poms, sparkles, and other art materials. These projects helped support fine motor development, hand-eye coordination, and creative expression as the children had fun experimenting with different textures and mediums.
Throughout the month, holiday music also filled our classroom as we brought out our jingle bells and other small instruments to play along with festive music! The children loved singing, shaking, tapping, and experimenting with rhythm. These activities supported their language development as they may have learned a few new songs that they can now sing at home, as well as encouraging their self-confidence as they expressed themselves through music and movement with their peers. They even got to sing with Santa as he visited our classroom!
We also made the most of the snowy, frigid weather outdoors. The children build snowmen, threw snowballs onto the ground, and observed changes in nature, such as seeing fewer squirrels, no more bugs, and more dogs on walks. These moments led to conversations about winter, hibernation, and animal behaviours. Outdoor play encouraged gross-motor developments, coordination, teamwork, and early scientific thinking as the children explored cause and effects and asked questions about their environment.
To wrap up our festive month, we held a special Christmas photoshoot using colourful lights to create a sort of magical moment. These photos will be turned into a gift for families to enjoy over our winter break! Through all of these December activities, the children strengthened important skills while experiencing the joy and wonder of the holiday season. We look forward to more learning and fun in the new year!
