9.24.2008

Autumn Leaves and Separation

What's on our shelf this week ~ Autumn and Separation

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"As a leaf is connected to the tree, we are all 'one' part of the whole -- coming from the same source, returning to the same place. When we are removed from our family or community, we believe ourselves to be separate. What we need to understand is that we do not have to be with others physically to be conected to each other. Your are never alone -- just go within."

Ok, of all the books this week, the children have LOVED listening to Oh My Baby, Little One.

"It's always hard for Baby Bird and his mama to say good-bye on their way to school and work in the morning. But Mama finds a lilting, lyrical way of showing how her love is with her child all the time--and his love is with her, too.

But even when I'm far away,this love I have will stay.
And wrap itself around you, every minute of the day.


Mama Bird tells her child how her love slips inside his lunch box, sits upon his shoulder when he sings a happy song, and snuggles on his pillow while he naps. Hints of hearts nestle playfully on the pages: on the blackboard under the letter H, and sewn onto his pillowcase. Oh My Baby, Little One will resonate deeply for moms and kids alike, and may make daily separations just a little bit easier.

So blow a kiss and wave good-bye--my baby, don't you cry.
This love is always with you, like the sun is with the sky."


I also have a dedicated basket for each season. As I read books (or do picture walks and have discussions) with the children, we'll add those books here.

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Sensory/Tactile
Mia explored the Pink Tower today and was excited to learn about biggest vs. smallest.
It was neat to see her carry this concept over to snack time when she looked at the containers her mama sent her snacks in, and said to herself, "Hmmmm...is this one the bigger one, or this one?"


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Culinary
Today, we made bread!


Mia poured the mix, Lulu combined the yeast and milk, and Sophia helped me mix.

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Ready to let dough rise.
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When I opened the oven and saw how dark brown it was, I was worried it was burned! However, one slice through, showed the fluffy, moist and yes, yummy homemade bread! The girls got to enjoy some when they woke up from their nap. The smell of the house was wonderful.

Sophia's impatience demonstrated below.

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Fine Motor
We took out the coffee grinders and the girls grinded coffee beans! This was a bit challenging at first, so we moved to the floor, and I held the base while they turned. They had to use a bit of force and remember to keep turning clockwise, but in the end, they all got it, and got a kick out of how they went from whole beans, to coffee grounds.

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*The reason for the shirtless kiddies is, we did this after art. It's easier to take off their shirts than to worry about too much paint getting on them. Any sewing inclined mamas want to make the art smocks I have listed on the wish list? hint, hint.... :) I'll buy the fabric!

Art
A sneak peak to what the children are making. Stay tuned!
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Some shots from yesterday of Austin and Lulu exploring the Brown Stair and Pink Tower.

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1 comment:

iMother2.0 said...

Mia sang the tortilla song for me yesterday, and told her daddy how she helped make bread. He asked if they used milk and yeast and she said yes. She wasn't sure if eggs were used.
Mia helped unload the dishwasher, explaining which bowls were bigger or smaller. She's been doing that for a while, but it's so nice that it's continued at Casa T.
Learning through experiences :)