Keeping Busy

So I haven't been posting as regularly because I've been working on my new project.  I have started a new preschool called Music Train Preschool.  This has been really fun but has taken quite a bit of my time organizing. I started a Music Train Preschool Blog which I will help me communicate with parents throughout the school year.  I will feature our weekly theme and give ideas that will help them reinforce the skills we learn in preschool.  I am really excited because I just filled my Tuesday and Thursday Class with the cutest kids.  I will only take six children per class.  This will help me give more individual attention to each student.  Music will be an integral part of our Preschool.  I will use music (singing, instrument playing, dancing, rhythm, and rhyme) to reinforce all the learning. It is something I know I will enjoy.  Most children I have interacted connect so fully with music.  The music helps engage and provide a whole learning experience.  Even though music will be a central part of the preschool experience I am planning a very well-rounded environment filled with, arts and crafts, reading, math, snacks, outside play, show and tell, field trips, free-play, and more.  My personal philosophy is Preschools primary importance is to prepare children for Kindergarten by providing an opportunity for children to interact nicely with other children their age, and learn how to be away from mom and dad and listen to another adult.  If they learn more then that then off course that is wonderful.  If you have any question or are interested in learning more please visit my blog at:  musictrainpreschool.blogspot.com  Even if you aren't signed up for Preschool you may find some of the posts interesting if you have a preschooler at home.

Encouraging Summer Reading

My kids are excited about a couple of reading programs this summer.  


1st -- Library Summer Reading program.  I'm sure all Libraries have some program that encourages reading.  We get coupons, and this is for even the adults, each week if we read so many hours.  It's so great.  At the end of the summer there is a fun party.  My kids look forward to it every year.  


2nd --I've had several e-mails about the the Borders Books.  Here is the link to the form:

http://media.bordersstores.com/pdf/summerreading.pdf

After your child reads 10 books - they get a FREE book from Borders! On the bottom of the form there is specific books that you child can choose from.  This is for children 12 and under.  Most of the books are chapter books but hey it's a free book to work towards!

3rd --The Read and Win Program

For Children 6-12 years old.  Deadline is July 22nd.  Read 10 books and receive a free ticket to the Utah State Fair in SLC.  For a form you can e-mail Jamie at jamie@utahstatefair.com   The state fair is Sept. 9-19.

Any other ideas?  I would love them in the comments!

Happy Reading!