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Learning Together Joyfully: May: Time To Bloom

Welcome back parents, educators, and grandparents. It’s the start of the second quarter of the year. It’s like a mini January, but with longer daytime to enjoy the spring weather outside. With the flowers starting to bloom and the leaves turning green again, winter blues are flushed out by the beautiful spring delights. Celebrate Principals and Vice Principal Day on May 1st. Enjoy the many books, songs and activities. Sports is a focus in May so enjoy the many sports books, songs, and activities. May 5 is Cinco de Mayo day – there are several books, songs and activities to enjoy. Mother’s Day is always a time to celebrate. Enjoy the many books that focus on inclusion and diversity. There are also many songs, books and activities to enjoy together. April is a special time to play, learn, grow, together!

Quick Links

Use these links to quickly navigate to specific sections within this blog!

  1. Read and Sing Together
  2. Create Together: Puzzles, Crafts, Drawing and Constructing
  3. Explore, Engage & Interact Together
  4. Healthy Living: Movement & Nutrition
  5. Reflect: Thoughts of the Day About Learning

1.  Read and Sing Together 📚 

Character traits are defined as the individual qualities or attributes that make up a person’s overall character. These descriptions can be physical, emotional, mental, or moral. Every person is made up of many different traits or qualities, and these can also change over the course of someone’s life. Positive character traits include the following: Respect and courtesy. Responsibility, including accountability, diligence, perseverance, self-management skills, and self-control. Fairness, including justice and freedom from prejudice. Caring, including kindness, empathy, compassion, consideration, patience, generosity, charity, and interpersonal skills.

Download these posters –  Reading Character Traits.

SPORTS BOOKS: The skills – honesty, teamwork, commitment, having respect for others and understanding rules – may develop through playing sport and can contribute greatly to the overall development of a child. The competitive aspect of sports can also help to teach children how to handle both winning and losing with maturity. Growing up can be difficult, leaving many youth with the feeling of inadequacy but sport has been found to help increase self-esteem and self-confidence in children. Not only does sport increase their individual confidence but it also helps keep children social.

  • The Real Slam Dunk by Charisse K. Richardson. Marcus Robinson is psyched! Tomorrow, his class is going on a field trip to a professional basketball arena to meet the one and only Jason Carter, Marcus’s hero. Marcus usually ignores everything except for basketball, but this time he studies for hours to win the math contest-for the prize of being the official Jason Carter greeter! But when Jason tells Marcus some things he didn’t expect to hear about professional basketball, Marcus is confused. He thought that all he’d ever need in life was basketball. Thanks to Jason, Marcus is about to learn the meaning of a real slam dunk.
  • Dream Big by Deloris Jordan (Michael Jordan and the Pursuit of Excellence). Long before he became a professional All-Star basketball player, Michael Jordan had dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal—and with dedication and perseverance, that’s exactly what he did. This heartwarming picture book, written by Michael’s mother and illustrated by Barry Root, gives a rare glimpse into a sports hero’s childhood and emphasizes the role that good values play in success.This book is an inspirational story for sports fans, go-getters, and anyone with big dreams!
  • Young Jackie Robinson The Pillar of Responsibility by Edward Farrell. African-American baseball legend Jackie Robinson is the subject of this Biography. The first black player in modern American Major League Baseball, Robinson overcame harsh prejudice and went on to be admired and respected by both his teammates and his fans.
  • Coach Hyatt is a Riot By Dan Gutman. Chapter 4 – 6; Chapter 9-10; Chapter 11-13.In this fourth book in the My Weird School Daze series, the Pee Wee Football season is here! But A.J.’s new coach is crazy. She wants the boys to do push-ups in the mud. She wants them to pick up a car. She even wants to put girls on the team! You’ll never believe in a million hundred years what happens in the big game. Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, Dan Gutman’s hugely popular My Weird School chapter book series has something for everyone. Don’t miss the hilarious adventures of A.J. and the gang!
  • Curious Readers – Positive Power Stories: I Am Strong by Suzy Capozzi. This book follows a young boy on a fun-filled day as he learns what it means to be strong. Despite his small size, he surprises his teammates and himself when he demonstrates mental, emotional, and physical strength to become the Field Day champion! This third title in the Positive Power series will get kids excited about their own strengths—whether it’s learning to read or running really fast. And it includes 2 sheets of stickers!
  • A Boy Named Boomer By Boomer Esiason. A year in the early life of NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason follows his January instruction by his father on how to catch a football through his receiving the best Christmas gift ever in December.
  • Messi, A Boy Who Became a Star by Steve Herman. This inspiring children’s story of Lionel Messi, is about a boy who became a star. Born in a poor family, the small boy faced many obstacles in life, including a medical condition that prevented him from growing…But he decided to follow his dream, worked hard and overcame all obstacles to become one of the best soccer players in history. This illustrated book teaches children to work hard to make their dreams come true. Learn about Messi, and learn how to be successful doing what you love.

  • Flying High: The Story of Gymnastic Champion Simone Biles by Michelle Meadows. A lyrical picture book biography of Simone Biles, gymnastics champion and Olympic superstar.Before she was a record-breaking gymnast competing on the world stage, Simone Biles spent time in foster care as a young child. Nimble and boundlessly energetic, she cherished every playground and each new backyard. When she was six years old, Simone’s family took shape in a different way. Her grandparents Ron and Nellie Biles adopted Simone and her sister Adria. Ron and Nellie became their parents. Simone was also introduced to gymnastics that same year, launching a lifelong passion fueled by remarkable talent, sacrifice, and the undying support of her family. From her athletic early childhood to the height of her success as an Olympic champion, Flying High is the story of the world’s greatest gymnast from author Michelle Meadows and illustrator Ebony Glenn.
  • Kids Book Read Aloud: Serena Williams by Mary Nhin. Follow Serena William’s life as she shows us how mental strength is cultivated and what it takes to become a champion. In the new Mini Movers and Shakers children’s book series comes a cast of characters who have failed, yet succeeded despite overwhelming obstacles. Find out what happens in this kid’s book about keeping your hope. Sometimes, we are faced with challenges that seem insurmountable. But with grit and hard work, one can achieve great things! Mini Movers and Shakers was developed to inspire children to dream big and work hard. Fun, relatable characters in graphic style books easy enough for young readers, yet interesting for adults. The Mini Movers and Shakers book series is geared to kids 3-11+. Perfect for boys, girls, early readers, primary school students, or toddlers. Excellent resource for educators, parents, and teachers alike.
  • A Dance Like Starlight, One Ballerina’s Dream by Kristy Dempsey. A story of little ballerinas with big dreams. Little ballerinas have big dreams. Dreams of pirouettes and grande jetes, dreams of attending the best ballet schools and of dancing starring roles on stage. But in Harlem in the 1950s, dreams don’t always come true—they take a lot of work and a lot of hope. And sometimes hope is hard to come by. But the first African-American prima ballerina, Janet Collins, did make her dreams come true. And those dreams inspired ballerinas everywhere, showing them that the color of their skin couldn’t stop them from becoming a star. In a lyrical tale as beautiful as a dance en pointe, Kristy Dempsey and Floyd Cooper tell the story of one little ballerina who was inspired by Janet Collins to make her own dreams come true.
  • Flat Stanley On Ice by Jeff Brown. Flat Stanley and Arthur are excited to go ice-skating on the frozen lake. But when the weather suddenly warms up, Stanley finds himself skating on thin ice! Beginning readers will love following along with Flat Stanley’s winter adventure. This book is geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help.
  • Scuba-Cat by James Dean. New York Times bestselling author and artist James Dean brings Pete the Cat’s world to life under the sea in this new I Can Read book. Pete the Cat is going scuba diving! Before he hits the water, Captain Joe tells him about all the sea creatures he can encounter, and Pete is super excited to see a seahorse. But when he is suited up and swimming around, he has to search high and low to find the little guy. In this aquatic adventure, Pete makes a new friend and gets a big surprise! This book is perfect for shared reading with a child. New readers will love the easy-to-read format and groovy illustrations in Pete the Cat’s first I Can Read underwater journey!
  • Black Belt Bunny by Jacky Davis. Black Belt Bunny is fast and strong and has seriously awesome moves—from front-kicks to back-flips to air-chops. Then he’s faced with something new, something every bunny must learn, something he might not be as good at: He has to make . . . a salad. Black Belt Bunny tries to escape. He even disguises himself with a fake mustache. But when he finally hops to it, he discovers that his seriously awesome moves come in pretty handy, and that—in a funny twist that puts the narrator in the hot seat—he isn’t the only one who has to try new things.
  • Do You Like My Bike? An Acorn Book (Hello, Hedgehog! #1) by Norm Feuti. Hedgehog has a new bike! This series is part of Scholastic’s early reader line, Acorn, aimed at children who are learning to read. With easy-to-read text, a short-story format, plenty of humor, and full-color artwork on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and fluency. Acorn books plant a love of reading and help readers grow! Hedgehog loves his new bike. His best friend Harry says he likes it, too. But when Hedgehog asks Harry to go bike riding with him, Harry says he does not want to go. Does Harry not like his friend’s new bike? Or could this all have something to do with training wheels? These reassuring, laugh-out-loud stories with full-color artwork and easy-to-read text throughout are perfect for new readers!

BOOKS: Cinco De Mayo- May 5. Cinco De Mayo is celebrated every year on May 5  to commemorate the victory of the Mexicans over the French in the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War in 1862. The term Cinco de mayo translates to “the fifth of May”. The day has become more popular in the United States than in Mexico, and it serves as a commemoration of Mexican culture in America. 

The commemoration of this day in the US began in California in 1863 at the hands of Mexican miners who were residing here and wanted to celebrate the victory. Cinco De Mayo became known all over the country in the 1940s during the Chicano movement. However, it became really popular in the 1980s. The celebrations emphasize Mexican culture, food, and music, and Cinco de Mayo events feature Baile Folklorico and mariachi demonstrations. A movement across the globe Cinco de Mayo is now celebrated across the whole globe, in Australia, The United Kingdom, and anywhere that there is a community of Mexicans or people who find pleasure in Mexican food and culture. In schools there may be events and activities to educate students on the history and cultural significance of Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo is not a public holiday, and as such, schools and businesses remain open. Consider borrowing the following books from your school library, public library or consider purchasing them.

  • Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds. With whimsical illustrations by Paulette Bogan, Aaron Reynolds has created a hilarious picture book about one rooster’s quest for culinary delight. What happens at Nuthatcher Farm when the chickens get tired of the same old chicken feed? The rooster hatches a plan, of course! With a pinch of genius, a dash of resourcefulness, and a little pilfering from the farmer’s garden, the chickens whip up a scrumptious snack of chips and salsa. When the rest of the barnyard gets a whiff of the spicy smells and wants to join in, it can mean only one thing . . . FIESTA! But when the big day arrives, all their spicy southwestern supplies are gone! It seems that Mr. and Mrs. Nuthatcher have caught on to the flavor craze as well, and the only thing left for the animals to do is to try a new culinary style-ooh la la!
  • Cinco De Mayo (Rookie Read-About Holidays) by Mary Dodson Wade. An introduction to the traditions, festivities, and history of Cinco de Mayo for the youngest readers. This fact-filled Rookie Read-About Holiday book introduces young readers to Cinco de Mayo. Colorful photos and very simple nonfiction text encourage children to read on their own as they take an in-depth look at the Mexican holiday known as Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates a battle for freedom fought in Mexico in 1861, and describes how it is celebrated today.
  • Cinco De Mouse-O! (Adventures of Mouse) by Judy Cox. Yum! Yum! A delicious smell wakes up Mouse on the fifth of May! He follows his nose down the street to a Cinco de Mayo festival. High up in a tree he spies a magnificent piñata. If only Mouse could get just one piece of candy from it. But look out! Cat is on the prowl. He is planning a fiesta of his own, and Mouse is on the menu. Sprinkled with a few words in Spanish, this Cinco de Mayo adventure is a great read-aloud for youngsters interested in other cultures or in sharing their own. The art is appealing and kid-friendly and filled with energy.

  • Marco’s Cinco de Mayo by Lisa Bullard. Marco loves the food, parades, and fun of Cinco de Mayo. This year he’s one of the dancers. As he listens to the mariachi music, Marco thinks of the brave Mexicans at the first Cinco de Mayo. Find out the different things people do to celebrate this holiday! Learn the history behind the days people celebrate in the Holidays and Special Days series. Each book follows a young narrator through the process of preparing for and celebrating a special event.

  • Little Mama Forgets by Robin Cruise. The Mexican-American grandmother may be getting a bit forgetful, but she still remembers what’s really important. In the mornings, Lucy’s grandmother, “Little Mama,” sometimes calls her “little Luciana” and forgets the bread is toasting, but she remembers to tickle Lucy and pour lots of cream on her rice pudding. Little Mama may forget how to tie her shoes, but she remembers how to button her satin dancing slippers when she twirls with Lucy. On the way to the park, Little Mama often forgets directions, but she remembers perfectly how to skip, laugh and sing. Everyday Little Mama forgets “names and places and people and words,” but she never forgets to tuck Lucy in at night “with a song and a kiss.” Brimming with patterns and colors reminiscent of Mexican folk art, the brilliant illustrations accentuate Little Mama’s zest for living, while celebrating Mexican-American family life. Lucy’s tender and loving kinship with “Little Mama” gently extols the importance of memory and intergenerational relationships. Warm and wise. (glossary of Spanish words and phrases)

Download this poster

 MOTHER’S DAY – May 12th, 2024

Mother’s Day is observed every year on the second Sunday of May. It is a day for celebrating mothers and sharing love.  It is not a public holiday, only businesses follow normal Sunday hours. Celebrations of motherhood go back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Anna Maria Jarvis was the creator of Mother’s Day in America. She founded it in 1908 but it was made into an official holiday in 1914. Mother’s Day is celebrated across the globe, in Australia, Canada, and India. The unbreakable bond between a parent or caregiver and child is one of the strongest forces in nature. This Mother’s Day, in Canada, Mothering Sunday celebrations gradually disappeared until they were fully merged with Mother’s Day in the 1930s. These books are primarily based on reviews, as well as focusing on finding a diverse range of storylines on same-sex couples wanting to grow their families. We are also mindful of choosing with cultural diversity in mind.

  • Mommy, Mama and Me by Leslea Newman. This book is written for very young children and showcases a loving relationship within a family with lesbian parents. From playing games to bath time, this book takes readers through a typical day, showing just how similar all families truly are.
  • The Family Book by Todd Parr. This book details the daily lives of all kinds of families. Each unique family structure is depicted with vivid illustrations that complement the book’s themes of family diversity and inclusivity.
  • Why I’m So Special: A Book About Surrogacy with Two Daddies by Carla Lewis-Long. This book is a great resource for same-sex couples who conceived their child via surrogacy and want to explain their path to parenthood in a positive, kid-friendly way. According to reviewers, one of the standout elements of this book is the lasting relationship the parents have with their surrogate after their child is born.

  • And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell. This book tells the story of Roy and Silo, two male penguins who live at the Central Park Zoo who long to have a family. So, with the help of the zookeeper, they adopt and raise a baby penguin, named Tango. One Amazon reviewer shares that it’s a good classroom book to help teach preschoolers about equality and love.
  • Stella brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer.  Stella’s class is having a Mother’s Day celebration — this sets the stage as she tells her story of having two dads who take care of her and support her every day. Although she’s nervous about it at first, bringing her dads to the party helps explain love, acceptance and the different variations on the definition of “family.”
  • In Our Mother’s House by Patricia Polacco. This book follows the story of an African American girl recounting her childhood with her two adoptive mothers and siblings. It takes on contemporary topics such as race, religion, sexuality, and family structures.
  • Welcome to the Party by Gabrielle Union. Inspired by the eagerly awaited birth of her daughter, Kaavia James Union Wade, this author pens a festive and universal love letter from parents to little ones, perfect for welcoming a baby to the party of life!
  • One Hug by Katrina Moore. Told in joyful rhymes and bright illustrations, One Hug celebrates the many ways we embrace our loved ones. As a family wakes up to begin preparing for the arrival of their immigrant relatives, the littlest girl begins to feel left out and nervous. But an encouraging brother and the welcoming arms of her grandma help end the day with a belly full of food, jars full of fireflies, and all in cozy, snuggly slumber. From the dazzling talents of debut author Katrina Moore and illustrator Julia Woolf comes a fun, cuddly story that reminds readers how one simple hug can go a long, happy way. A perfect read-aloud to share in classrooms or at bedtime!

  • Toad on the Road: Mama and Me by Stephen Shaskan. Toad is back in his second read-aloud adventure—this time with Mama! Tender and funny, this mama and me story is perfect for kids learning to read.  Fox has a flat. Goat ran out of gas. But help has arrived from Mama and Toad. Go, Mama, go! Go, little Toad! Help your friends get back on the road.  With bold, eye-catching art and a bouncy rhyming text, this is the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. “The call-and-response construction of the tale lends itself well to performing for young readers. A catchy cautionary tale.”

  • I’ve Loved You Since Forever by Hoda Kotb. This book is a celebratory and poetic testament to the timeless love felt between parent and child. This picture book is inspired by Today show co-anchor Hoda Kotb’s heartwarming adoption of her baby girl, Haley Joy. This book has lyrical text and stunning pictures by Suzie Mason, young ones and parents will want to snuggle up and read the pages of this book together, over and over again. In the universe, there was you and there was me, waiting for the day our stars would meet. . . Makes a lovely gift for Mother’s Day, and more.

  • All the Things I Love About You by LeUyen Pham. There are oh so many things a mom loves about her young child. But most of all, she just loves him, no matter what. This book combines the author’s experience as a mother and her proven storytelling skills in a humorous and heartfelt love letter of a book. In this book Mama lists the reasons she loves her little boy: the way his hair sticks up in the morning, the way he says “Mama” (even in the middle of the night), and the way he laughs. This book, simply written and beautifully illustrated, speaks to the unconditional love between a mother and her child. Children and parents alike will treasure this heartwarming book and, in reading it together, appreciate the small actions that make love grow stronger every day.

  • My Mommy Hung the Moon; A Love Story by Jamie Lee Curtis & Laura Cornell.  My mommy hung the moon. She tied it with a string. My mommy’s good at EVERYTHING. This book is a celebration of unconditional love between mother and child. Mommy is the best at everything: Not only does she carpool, untangle kites, steal bases, and bake cookies, she also seems to light up the sun with her love. Written straight from the heart and illustrated with tender hilarity. This book is a keepsake that defines the magical relationship a mother has with her son or daughter. So grab the little one you love, and rejoice as the ordinary moments of everyday life become extraordinary because of the magic of mother love.
  • The Berenstain Bears: We Love Our Mom! By Jan and Mike Berenstain. With Mother’s Day only a few days away, Brother and Sister Bear are looking for the perfect present for Mama. After all, Mama Bear is always there for her cubs! When Brother scrapes his knees, Mama is there with bear hugs and kisses. When Sister Bear needs help with her homework, Mama always lends a helping paw. So what can the cubs possibly come up with to show their mom how much they love her?
  • Biscuit Loves Mother’s Day by Alyssa Satin Capucilli. There are so many ways to make Mom feel special (on Mother’s day and every day). Pull back the big flaps to see the surprises Biscuit and the little girl have in store for Mom!
  • The Bad Seed by Jory John.  He has a bad temper, bad manners, and a bad attitude. He’s been bad since he can remember! This seed cuts in line every time, stares at everybody and never listens. But what happens when one mischievous little seed changes his mind about himself, and decides that he wants to be — happy? This book is a funny yet touching tale that reminds us of the remarkably transformative power of will, acceptance, and just being you. Perfect for readers young and old. This book proves that positive change is possible for each and every one of us.
  • The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown. A little bunny keeps running away from his mother in an imaginary game of hide-and-seek. Children will be profoundly comforted by this lovingly steadfast mother who finds her child every time. This book was first published in 1942 and never out of print, has indeed become a classic. Generations of readers have fallen in love with the gentle magic of its reassuring words and loving pictures.
  • Dear Girl by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Paris Rosenthal. This mother-daughter have collaborated to bring you the heartwarming and inspiring book which is  a remarkable love letter written for the special girl in your life; a gentle reminder that she’s powerful, strong, and holds a valuable place in the world.
  • Silly Wonderful You by Sherri Duskey Rinker, is a funny and tender love letter from a parent to her child. If you, too, never imagined your house would be so messy after having a child, this book is for you. Before YOU came along, so many things were different! But now there’s a giggly baby, a house full of adventures and toys, a million little surprises. . . . And so much love.
  • You Made Me a Mother by Laurenne Sala. I felt you. You were a pea. Then a lemon. Then an eggplant… In this beautiful celebration of motherhood, the universal message of unconditional love for a child shines through.
  • Llama Llama Mother’s Day Present by Anna Dewdney. This bestselling Llama Llama series is now a television show on Netflix, and Little Llama’s latest adventures are captured in a brand-new book series. With Mother’s Day around the corner, Little Llama is busy planning a special celebration. This amusing tale follows Llama as he goes undercover to discover his mother’s interests and creates the perfect way to honor his mama.
  • I Love Mom With the Very Hungry Caterpillar written and illustrated by Eric Carle. Eric Carle’s signature collage-style artwork shines in this eye-catching tribute to mothers. Colorful illustrations of animals with their young ones, combined with simple text that sweetly describes the many notable attributes of mothers, makes this a special keepsake for families.
  • The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin. Beautiful and touching, Emily Winfield Martin’s picture book expresses all the things parents hope for their little ones. With her signature lush illustrations and rhythmic rhymes, The Wonderful Things You Will Be is a celebration of the dreams, acceptance, and love each parent has for their child. This is one that your family will enjoy reading again and again.

  • Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman. This classic story about a baby bird in search of his mother is sure to delight little readers and makes a perfect gift for moms. A lovely celebration of the special bond between a mother and child.

VICTORIA DAY – May 24

Victoria Day was first celebrated in 1845, when the parliament of Canada declared May 24th as a public holiday in honor of Queen Victoria’s birthday. The holiday was later adopted by all Canadian provinces and territories and became a federal statutory holiday in 1901, the year of Queen Victoria’s death. For many people now the May Two-Four weekend heralds the start of Summer, and so it is celebrated often with summer activities such as picnics and hikes in the countryside. What activities you can take part in will, of course, be affected by where you live in Canada. The meaning of Victoria Day is to celebrate our British heritage and the life of Queen Victoria who ruled the British Empire between 1837 and 1901. It’s also a great opportunity to celebrate being Canadian with events and activities taking place across the country. In Québec, the day is known as Fête de Dollard or National Patriots Day, and so chooses to celebrate other aspects of Canadian history other than historic British involvement.  

  • Victoria Day for Kids by Natalie De Marco. Discover the history and traditions of Victoria Day with your children. Enjoy fun kid-friendly Victoria Day activities that will keep you kids entertained for hours. Children ages 6 to 10 will love this easy-to-read children’s book and the colorful pictures. Discover…* How did Victoria Day get started?* Why do we celebrate Victoria Day?* What do people do for Victoria Day?* Fun things you can do with your family on Victoria Day!* Victoria Day activities that you and your kids will remember for years to come.….and Much More! So get ready to have the best Victoria Day as you and your kid discover the history and tradition of this special day and do fun activities to make this Victoria Day the best one of all.
  • The Kids Book of Canada by Barbara Greenwood. Finally, the premier children’s resource on Canada is available in a fully revised paperback edition — bringing up to date this bestselling treasury of information that has long been an essential book for schools, libraries and homes from coast to coast. Ten years after its debut, this title in the acclaimed Kids Book of series is more than ever an indispensable tool for researching school projects or a conversation piece for sharing Canadian facts with friends and family. Bursting with rich and detailed illustrations, this book is as far-ranging, fascinating and full of surprises as the country it describes. Inside you’ll find:
    • colorful maps of the provinces and territories showing major cities, rivers, mountains and points of interest.
    • the provincial and territorial coat of arms, flowers, birds and trees.
    • details of famous Canadians and important events, plus a time line to guide you through each province and territory’s history.
    • current information on Canada’s growing industries and evolving environmental challenges.
    • updated references to the Aboriginal Peoples in Canada.

SCHOOL PRINCIPAL BOOKS: Monday, May 1 

Several studies indicated principals can facilitate strong school climates by helping teachers and students feel safe, valued, and emotionally supported, helping them believe their individual effort will lead to achieving academic goals. The role of the Principal is to provide leadership, direction and coordination within the school. The Principal’s main focus should be to develop and maintain effective educational programs within his/her school and to promote the improvement of teaching and learning with his/her school. principals, through their actions, can be powerful multipliers of effective teaching and leadership practices in schools.

  • Mr. Lincoln’s Way by Patricia Polacco. When Mr. Lincoln, “the coolest principal in the whole world,” discovers that Eugene, the school bully, knows a lot about birds; he uses this interest to help Eugene overcome his intolerance.
  • Rufus Goes to School by Kim T. Griswell. Rufus Leroy Williams III wants to go to school to learn to read but the principal at first refuses because Rufus is a pig. 
  • Our Principal’s In His Underwear! By Stephanie Calmenson. A unique principal named Mr. Bundy runs PS 88 in this silly, fun-to-read Aladdin QUIZ chapter book that’s perfect for emerging readers! Mr. Bundy gets a brand-new outfit…but he’s the only one in PS 88 that thinks it’s spectacular! In this clever twist on The Emperor’s New Clothes, acclaimed author Stephanie Calmenson turns a beloved fairy tale on its ear with the silly (mis)adventures of Mr. Bundy!
  • Mr. Klutz Is Nuts! By Dan Gutman. With more than 11 million books sold, the My Weird School series really gets kids reading! In the second book of the original My Weird School series, Principal Klutz goes nuts! He wants to climb to the top of the elementary school flagpole. He even kissed a pig on the lips and painted his bald head orange. And now he wants to bungee jump off the roof of the school dressed as Santa Claus! Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, bestselling author Dan Gutman’s insanely popular My Weird School series has something for everyone. Don’t forget to join A.J. and the gang on the rest of their hilarious adventures.
  • Principal for a Day by Christine Evans. When Raven leaves for vacation, Luca finds himself on his own again. As the new kid at Lincoln Elementary, he’s tired of getting told what to do by everyone around him. So despite his best friend’s warnings, Luca visits the Wish Library and asks to be the one in charge. But even rule makers need to compromise sometimes. For older readers.
  • Mrs. Jafee Is Daffy! by Dan Gutman. Chapter 1 – 3. Chapter 7-9. Chapter 10-11.The weirdness never stops! The new vice principal of Elementary school has some crazy ideas on how to teach kids. A.J. and the gang have to stand on their heads while they do math! They have to take a spelling test underwater! Everybody has to do yoga! Could it possibly get any weirder? For older readers.
  • The Incredible Shrinking Lunchroom by Michal Babay. This modern retelling of the classic Yiddish folktale and Caldecott Honor book It Could Always Be Worse asks: What do you do when the school lunchroom gets too crowded? The students at Parley Elementary have a hard time using the space in their lunchroom efficiently. When they get tired of shoving and arguing, they write a letter to their principal asking for help. She responds by moving all the science projects into the lunchroom. Now it’s even more crowded! Through a series of letters and increasingly hilarious scenarios, the lunchroom gets more and MORE chaotic. When the principal finally announces that the lunchroom is once again only to be used for lunch, the students are overjoyed with the result.

SONGS: The poster below uses the word ‘MUSIC’ as an acrostic. These rules support positive, desired student behavior and cover expectations of children. When you download the freebie there are both multi-color and black and white formats. You may also wish to download a free Classroom Instrument Labels or other free Music Posters.

Download this poster here

text “happy victoria day” on a deep red background with a red maple leaf silhouetted by a white cirle

VICTORIA DAY: The holiday is a day off from school and work for most Canadians. Many major cities host parades and fireworks displays. The Royal Union Flag, or Union Jack, is flown at all government buildings from sunrise to sunset. The Canadian Flag, however, always takes precedence. The day is the official kick-off for summer in Canada. A lot of people begin working on their garden or spend the long weekend opening up their summer homes in the mountains. The holiday is also considered the kick-off for camping season, a popular pastime in Canada.

PRINCIPAL SONGS:

SPORTS SONGS:

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MOTHER’S DAY SONGS: 

Momjunction.com

2. Create Together: Puzzles, Crafts, Drawing and Constructing 🧩 

Children are naturally curious. From the minute they gain control of their limbs, they work to put themselves out into the world to see how it all works. They explore, observe and imitate, trying to figure out how things operate and how to control themselves and their environments. This unrestricted exploration helps children form connections in their brain, it helps them learn—and it’s also fun. Art is a natural activity to support free play in children. The freedom to manipulate different materials in an organic and unstructured way allows for exploration and experimentation. These artistic endeavours and self-directed explorations are not only fun, but educational as well. Art allows youth to practise a wide range of skills that are useful not only for life, but also for learning. Art exploration is not only fun and entertaining, but also educational. Here are some tips for growing your budding artist. Here are some tips for growing your budding artist.

  • Skills youth practice when participating in art activities include:
    • Fine motor skills. Grasping pencils, crayons, chalk and paintbrushes helps children develop their fine motor muscles. This development will help your child with writing, buttoning a coat and other tasks that require controlled movements.
    • Cognitive development. Art can help children learn and practice skills like patterning and cause and effect (i.e., “If I push very hard with a crayon the color is darker.”). They can also practice critical thinking skills by making a mental plan or picture of what they intend to create and following through on their plan.
    • Math skills. Children can learn, create and begin to understand concepts like size, shape, making comparisons, counting and spatial reasoning.
    • Language skills. As children describe and share their artwork, as well as their process, they develop language skills. Parents and educators can encourage this development by actively listening and asking open-ended questions in return. It is also a great opportunity to learn new vocabulary words regarding their project (i.e., texture).

 Finwise.edu.vn

MOTHER’S DAY ACTIVITIES:

3. Explore, Engage & Interact Together 🌍

Blue mountain.com

SPORTS ACTIVITIES:

QUEEN VICTORIA ACTIVITIES:

  • Fun Facts About Victoria Day:
    • In much of Canada the day is known as May two-four. The long weekend is often called May Long.
    • Queen Victoria married her first cousin Prince Albert. They had 9 children and 34 grandchildren.
    • It is said that Queen Victoria started the trend of women getting married in white wedding dresses.
    • The birthday of King Edward was celebrated on Victoria Day even though he was born on November 9.
    • Canada is the only country that celebrates this day.
  • Read more Historical Facts about Queen Victoria.
  • Read and write more about Victoria Day.
  • More information about Victoria Day.
  • Read more about events in Prince George.
  • Activities around Vancouver:
    • British Car Show at VanDusen Garden.
    • The Cloverdale Rodeo.
    • Royal Canadian Circus.
    • Victoria Day Weekend Boat Party.
    • Vancouver Comic Arts Festival.
    • Big Dig at Britannia Mine.
    • Escape Room at the Maritime Museum.
    • Sweet Spring at Greendale Acres.

Huencese.com

MOTHER’S DAY ACTIVITIES:

PRINCIPAL DAY ACTIVITIES:

SPORTS ACTIVITIES:

Wishing Cinco De Mayo

CINCO DE MAYO ACTIVITIES:

4. Healthy Living: Movement & Nutrition 👭

  • Benefits of Creative Movement: There are many benefits to using creative movement with children. These benefits vary depending on the activity and age of the child. Some benefits of creative movement include:
    • Helps children develop body control
    • Children gain coordination and balance through varied movements
    • Children are able to respond to music and rhythm
    • Encourages children to express their creativity in physical ways
    • Children learn that movement can communicate actions and ideas
    • Gives children a different way of expressing themselves, especially if it is difficult for them to articulate what they are communicating
    • Encourages participation
    • Allows for exploration of cause and effect
    • Develops listening skills
    • Encourage social skills

MOVEMENT:

NUTRITION:

CINCO DE MAYO RECIPES:

MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST: 

HEALTHY LUNCHBOX IDEAS FOR KIDS:

5. Reflect: Thoughts of the Day About Learning 💭

MAY:

SPORTS:

MOTHER’S DAY:

Download this poster 

Download this poster