Dear Pre-2 parents and families,
This past month has been a tubular time with all the learning and exploration around tubes and tunnels. We began our exploration about tubes and tunnels, starting with exploring various examples of tunnels and tubes. For example, the children had the opportunity to join group time by passing through a play tunnel from the large motor room.
Using visuals and books, we discussed how people create tunnels. First, we defined a tunnel as a passageway that goes through mountains, rivers, roads, and oceans. Next, we learned that engineers are people who build tunnels. Engineers need three things to build a safe tunnel: tools, controlled soil, and a strong lining. According to our book, Amazing Structures Tunnels, the lining is used to support the weight of the material above. Thirdly, we learned that there are various types of tunnels. Subways are a type of tunnel and there are tunnels that travel underwater. The Channel Tunnel connects England and France. The part that is underwater is 23 miles long.
We briefly discussed the types of insects and animals that make tunnels or burrows in the ground. Some examples include earthworms, ants, moles, rabbits, and badgers. These animals create burrows underground for living purposes. This is a place where they can store food, sleep, and keep babies safe from predators.
An exciting part of this study was taking a walk around campus to find various tubes and tunnels. We saw several pipes used for water supply or electricity. We found a skywalk and walked down several hallways, which we explained as a tunnel because it is a vessel that is open at both ends and allows us to move through.
Moving forward, with only 30 days left until the end of the school year, we will begin our study on kindergarten readiness. We will discuss feelings some may have towards starting a new school and compare our school versus an elementary school. We will introduce vocabulary words pertaining to school and extracurricular classes that elementary schools provide. We hope that this study will excite your child with the change that is soon to come their way.
Please keep an eye out for conference sign up. Conferences are scheduled for April 29th and 30th. The last day of PFA-E is May 23rd.
Thanks,
Hillary and Bri
