We met the Animals on Friday, courtesy of the Austin Science and Nature Center. They brought a bunny, a lizard, a turtle, a ferret, and a quail. The children learned about each of them during the presentation. What fun to have them join us.
Save the Date for the FUMP Music Fest on Friday, February 7 from 11:30 to 1pm. We will meet in Wesley Hall for an all school indoor picnic, and enjoy activities, games and a music set by Mr. Will. Parents are invited to this school wide event, and we hope you can join us. More information coming your way later this week about volunteering and other details.
Thank you for your responses to the parent survey regarding increasing FUMP’s hours. At this time, we have 82% of families supporting the change. There is a bit more information to prepare for the transition regarding our board approving the formal change, but it looks like the proposal will pass. I am reaching out to the families who prefer a four hour day to work out solutions. Registration begins at 11am on Monday, February 3 for the 2020-2021 school year. The registration will be held online so you will receive an email form on Monday. Please submit your form by next Friday at noon. This registration is processed in order of seniority, your family’s first date of enrollment at FUMP. We know that this is a big change, and please let us know if you have any questions. We love our families and want to continue to serve your family as we evolve.
As you consider your child’s enrollment for the coming year, it may be helpful to read about where FUMP students go in their academic programs after they leave our programs. It is an impressive list of colleges and universities. Read WHERE DO THEY GO FROM HERE for more information. Fun fact: one of our FUMP alumni, Sarah Jarosz, won a Grammy last night. Wow!
Teacher Column. Ms. Stacy. Encouraging Empathy and Kindness.
We are constantly asking our children to be polite and modeling good manners, but are we really teaching them the building blocks of KIND behavior? Here are some questions that might give you insight into how much your child understands about kindness and empathy. Children are egocentric at this age so it is very hard to fully empathize with peers.
What does it mean to be kind?
Who do you know that is really kind? What do they do that makes them so kind?
What do your friends do that is really kind to you?
How are you kind to me (Mom or Dad)?
How are you kind to your siblings?
How can you be a helper when someone is sad?
How can you be a helper when someone is mean to someone else?
Is there someone in your class that needs a friend?
Is there anyone in your class that you never play with? Why?
One easy way to start the conversation is to read books about social emotional issues.
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig. The story is about a little boy that feels left out and what that looks like at school. No one includes him in groups, or games or birthday parties. (age 4-6)
Rulers of The Playground by Joseph Kuefler. Jonah decides to become ruler of the playground and make everyone follow his rules. This works until Lennox comes. She wants to be the ruler too. (age 4-6)
You Will Be My Friend by Peter Brown. Lucy is an exuberant bear who is trying to make friends. It can be hard!
Find more books here: https://www.weareteachers.com/15-must-have-picture-books-for-teaching-social-emotional-skills/