This week we have settled back into class beautifully after the long Christmas break. The children have returned with a positive attitude and have quickly reconnected with routines, friends and learning. We have been talking about the change of year and the new season, sharing ideas about winter and what we notice happening in the world around us.

As part of our learning about winter, we explored what happens to water when it gets very cold. The children were fascinated to see water freeze and enjoyed discussing changes they could observe, using lots of great vocabulary.

Our first focus book of the term has been Stick Man. The children have loved retelling the story and talking about the different places Stick Man travels. We have been using the story to support our writing, practising writing short words and simple sentences linked to the text.

On Monday we will be creating our very own Stick men. Please help your child to hunt for a suitable stick at home and bring it into school on Monday. We are very excited to see what they find.

In maths, we have been recapping different ways of making 5 using practical resources, fingers and number talk. The children are becoming more confident in recognising that numbers can be made in different ways. A fun activity to try at home is to have 5 objects, cover some and see if the children know how many are covered.

In phonics, we have been learning the sounds j, v and w. The children are working hard to recognise these sounds and use them in their reading and writing.

We are still spending plenty of time learning and playing outside despite the cold weather. Fresh air and outdoor play are important for children’s wellbeing and help support their immunity, so we will continue to make the most of it. Please ensure all hats and gloves are clearly labelled with your child’s name.

‍