We have been easing into our daily routine this week. I feel structure is extremely important for children.  While we have our typical daily routine I fully understand the need for flexibility! 
Routines give children a sense of security and stability.  They also help children feel safe and secure in their environment. Toddlers gain an understanding of everyday events and procedures and learn what is expected of them as routines make their environment more predictable.  

​We work on our names daily! One of the best places to start when it comes to teaching children how to recognize letters and to read is to begin with their name. Every young child is interested in their own name, names are meaningful and personal! They will naturally begin to recognize their friends names as well over time. We read name books daily; each child has their own name book. Their names are posted all over; in the classroom, in the bathroom, cups, folders and cubbies.
The name plates your child comes home with weekly may seem very simple and repetitious but they are learning so much more than their name. We work on shapes, colors, letter recognition, scissor skills and patterns. The younger kids match up the shape with the letter written on the name plate. The older kids put their name together without prompts. The older kids will also either trace their name or write themselves.

The kids are back!  I am ready for another fantastic year.