March 18, 2020: Resources and checking in

Hi 1A families,

It looks like the Zoom call works! I'd like to set up a call on weekdays at 10:00am. I will send out and email with login details. It will give me a chance to check in with the kids and read them a story. On days when your first grader can log in, great! If they can't make it on a particular day, that's ok, too.

I really hope all of you are doing well. I think about you and the kids all the time. If you are anything like my family, we are having our ups and downs and trying to make the best of it. Our administration is doing a wonderful job trying to coordinate resources for you to use at home while we are not in school.

• First, please have your child do the Beyond the Classroom assignments because these are the only thing that is required at this point. It's my understanding, that we must have at least 80% participation in this program according to state regulations. Once your kiddo is finished, please send me either a picture or an email so I can document that it was completed. It doesn't all have to be done right now, so take time if you need it, but please don't forget. Thank you to everyone who has already sent me pictures of the work.
• Second, the Assistant Superintendent, Lorene Marx, sent out a big list of resources for the district. None of it is required, but it's VERY helpful if you are looking for things to do with your kids. Please take a peek.
  https://sites.google.com/northandoverpublicschools.com/beyondtheclassroom/learning-activities-for-school-closure/pre-k-grade-2?authuser=0
  FYI: They listed Brainpop.com, but the username and password also works for Brainpopjr.com - which is more targeted to the little ones in first grade. We use this in class, the kids are familiar with it, and most really like it.

I'm trying to keep a schedule for my own kids on weekdays at my house. It includes reading time, written work, a chore, math, and exercise. We're also doing hikes as field trips from time to time. I try to give the kids choices at each step of the way so that they feel like they have a little control over their day. But let's be realistic, some days will be more successful than others. This is just a suggestion; do what works for you.

Thank you to all of the families that have reached out to me this week. If you haven't already, please send me an email to let me know how you and your family are doing. If you need anything, I will do whatever I can to help. If the kids want to chat with me, I can be available. Send me an email and we can set up a  time for a call. 

Hope this is helpful!
Thanks for all that you do!
Katie Barnett