A Typical Day in the Threes

Arrival 

Children hang up their jackets and backpacks, which are checked for notes.  Children greet friends and teachers, find their photograph/name to "sign in," and have time to play.

Meeting 

We sing our good morning song, do some fun finger plays, and talk about what we can expect at school that day.  We also find our who has a job that day (i.e. line leader, caboose, weather observer, botanist, block checker, attendance) and who has the day off!  We frequently play cooperative games from our Elmwood repertoire. Games engage a child while also supporting their growth in gross motor skills, following directions, cooperation, and good sportsmanship.  Games are part of who we are!

Choice Time 

Children move freely about the room, choosing their favorite areas in which to play. Choices include imaginative play in the housekeeping/restaurant area, building, painting at the easel, water/sand play, puzzles, and reading in the book corner.  Most days there is also a teacher-guided, small group experience related to our curriculum.

Cleanup 

Everyone helps, and when we're finished the block checker does his or her job!

Bathroom, Handwashing, & Snack Time 

We take turns using the bathroom and washing hands while the rest of the class plays circle games, reads a story, and sings songs. Teachers join the children in snack and conversations.  

Outside/Big Room 

We ride bikes, play ball, go to SandWorld, and to Elmville.  We have free play time as well as opportunities for large group days.  When the weather keeps us inside, we go to The Big Room for obstacle courses, ball activities, relay races, time to build or to act out stories.

Dismissal 

We talk about our day, sing our goodbye song, and dismiss from the front hallway. Parents drive through the loop in the front parking lot and teachers escort children to their cars.