Category: School

Categories
School

March is too Early for High School Enrolment!

Studying - Maybe this will be the twins next year.
Studying - Maybe this will be the twins next year.

Last night I attended “Meet the Teacher” at the twin’s school.

The last one I attended was when they were in Kindy and then moved into stage 1.

I decided to attend the one last night since it is the girl’s last year of primary, they are getting ready for high school and I wanted to understand how the school is preparing them for the next step.

It was great to hear all the wonderful things that the teachers and the school have organised. It was also good to meet one of the new teachers and hear from another that the kids have known forever but have never had as a teacher.

One thing that amazed me was that next week the whole year six are visiting the local high school. They are spending a full day there to experience what it is like to be at high school. On the same day, there is an information session for parents about the high school.

Hopefully, this will be my girls soon. Looking up stuff in a dictionary.
Hopefully, this will be my girls soon. Looking up stuff in a dictionary.

While at the Meet the Teacher event it was told to all parents that there will be forms sent out for registering at the local high school in March.

March! What the????

The girls just started grade six and now we are talking about racing off and enrolling at the high school!

So getting back to how the school prepares the kids for the transition to high school.

There are a few more events that the kids attend at the high school and we also got told that some of the teachers come to the primary school to help the kids to deal with the fact that they will be dealing with timetables and how they will have different teachers for each subject.

As you can imagine the girls are super excited about going to high school and at times a little scared but mostly excited.  Both girls have been wanting the year six hoodie jumper last year, however, they were technically in grade five so that was never going to happen. Now they now officially grade sixers they will be getting their grade six hoodies soon.

Soooo all teachers told all the parents that the kids need to do the following each night:

  • Read aloud to mum/dad
  • Practice their spelling words
  • Do their mathletics homework

Ever since the girls have moved into stage 3, which is grade five and grade six, they have told me that they don’t need to do any homework as it is all done at school.

As a mum that wants to prepare her children for the soon to be the first day of high school. I am trying to get my kids to practice their reading, spelling, comprehension, maths and so much more. I want them to be ready and not freak out if they get asked something or have to do a task for their new teachers.

Studying - Maybe this will be the twins next year.
Studying – Maybe this will be the twins next year.

After learning about all the wonderful things planned and how it aligns with the syllabus I asked a question.

“If you expect the kids to do about 30mins of practice each afternoon, can you please tell the kids that they need to do the work.  I find it extremely difficult to get my girls to do any practice when they tell me that they don’t need to do homework.”

Many other parents said the same thing and the teachers understood the issue.

If teachers want kids to do work they need to tell kids that homework is due, rather than say you don’t need to do it. How do you enforce a little bit of homework each day when the school says you don’t have to!

I’m really struggling to get my kids to understand that the only way they can get better is with practice. Are you in the same situation as me? I know that too much homework is bad and not good, however, a little bit of something each day I believe is a good idea, it helps kids practice and know their work and therefore develop more confidence.

I am still in shock that I am off to the high school next week to find out more. I am also in shock that the kids are off to the high school so early in the year. And yes, a little amazed that the high school wants you to fill out forms for enrollment in March!

My tactic to get the kids to do some work is to take their technology off them during the school week, do a bit of work when they come home from school. I get both kids to read a few pages of a book they are reading, do some spelling, any maths work that is needed to be done, and some quick practice for their times tables.

Getting ready for high school - Pity the girls have a school uniform and cannot wear these fun shoes.
Getting ready for high school – Pity the girls have a school uniform and cannot wear these fun shoes.

 

I know it is a bit harsh to take technology off them but I have found that this makes them focus and once the work is done I let them play outside or do something creative, or even keep reading the book they are reading.

What do you do to help kids practice or do homework for school? Let me know.

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Categories
School

First School Camp

The twins have their first school camp this week.

In fact, camp starts tomorrow.

We have to be at the school at 7.45am to ensure that they don’t miss the bus.  This means a super early morning for all three kids and mummy.

Last night I helped the kids pack their camp bags. The only thing that we don’t have done is their lunch for day 1 and a sun hat that they will take with them on the bus.

Camp bags are packed. All done and ready for the girl's first school camp.
Camp bags are packed. All done and ready for the girl’s first school camp.

I’m pleased that I finally got two bags packed, and we are not doing it the night before!

It was a trying experience.

First, the girl’s room needed to be tidied up. The floor was a huge mess and we couldn’t sort anything out. Picture kids standing on things, clothes and toys and then piling a bag and more on top. How would we know what is coming and what isn’t!

Hours later and much discussion about not mucking around and cleaning up, we were finally done with the cleaning the girl’s room. It wasn’t perfect but just enough to allow us to get organised.

Mummy needed a stiff drink by this stage and some painkillers but had to hang in there until the job was complete.

Now the packing started.

Geez, you would have thought this part would have been easy. No, it wasn’t. I was getting yelled at by the kids about what they have to pack and what they cannot.

One thing that the twins did not want to take was their wet weather jacket. This jacket has a hood and will also keep them warm if they are sitting around a campfire at night time.

Don’t tell them but I have secretly added the jacket in their bags.

They will be thankful as it is going to get cold this week and the kids are camping. What would they do if they needed a jacket, and were stuck without it?

Roasting marshmallows on a campfire. Maybe the kids will do this while camping.
Roasting marshmallows on a campfire. Maybe the kids will do this while camping.

As you might have guessed the twins are so excited to be going away with their mates from school. Three days away having fun, and not doing school work!

The girls heard about how fun it was from their mates last year, and have desperately wanted to go. This camp is only for grade four so therefore as soon as the kids started grade four this year their first thought and comment was, “We can go to camp this year mummy!”

Have your kids gone camping with school?  Did they have fun? Was it hell packing before they left? It was a nightmare here but thankful it is all done now… Phew is what I am saying and glad that I have survived this stressful experience.

It will also be a break for mummy having the twins at camp.

No kids to take to school and pick up, and also no after-school activities for the week. What a fab break for me!

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Categories
School

Back to School Organising

School goes back for my twins at the end of January. Part of me is excited that they will be starting a new year of learning, and part of me is realising that time is flying.

The girls starting school last year. I’m sure they will be this excited this year.
The girls starting school last year. I’m sure they will be this excited this year.

There is also another part of me that likes the fact that they will be at school so that mummy might be able to get a few things done….. I know many parents do rejoice when school goes back so I might not be the only one doing a happy dance.

Although with school going back the routine returns. Lunches have to be made, bags packed, school uniforms washed and folded, kids dropped and picked up from school, and then after school activities return and therefore means that I need to take everyone to the required place for the required amount of time.

School holidays do tend to wear me out, but I do love the fact that you can just stay home and do nothing. You don’t have to be anywhere and no one needs a lunch box to stay home.

This was the twins last day of pre-school. 
They were super excited to be going to Kindy. Now they are in grade four, how time flies.
This was the twins last day of pre-school. 
They were super excited to be going to Kindy. Now they are in grade four, how time flies.

Soon the girls will be done with their primary education and move on to high school.

Not only have I been a little down about the fact that they are growing up so quickly, I have been thinking about all the items that I need to organise for the kids before they get to their first day of term 1 this year.

Are your kids starting school this year? If they are I bet they are very excited. 

What do you need for the first day of school?

  • Depending on what year you are in you have different things to bring to school. Your school gives you a breakdown of all items that you need to for your child.
  • If you have attended Kindy Orientation the year before, you would have received an info pack. In the info pack you get told all about the school, bell times, teachers, where rooms are, snow and bushfire policies (Yes our school has both snow & a bushfire policy), what the kids need for their first day and so much more.

    COST SAVING TIPS: 

    TIP 1:  Look at the uniform and see how you can cut costs. If the school wears a single colour polo shirt, this same top an be purchased cheaply at Target, BigW or Kmart.  If the school has a crest on their shirts buy a few of these and get the rest in the plain colour. This way your child has the fancy one for school functions, photos and excursions.

    TIP 2: The same is for other items, like shorts, skorts (a cross between a skirt and shorts) and so on.  I purchased skorts for the twins for $8 at BigW and from the school, they are $30 each. Shopping around for school uniform items is a good idea. Oh, and if your kids are like mine and love wearing shorts, buy the boys shorts and you will save a bundle. Who cares if they are boys or girls shorts. It really doesn’t matter.

    TIP 3: If your child is at the stage you need to purchase stationery and other supplies for school, it is a good idea to see what you already have at home. I’m sure that you might already have textas, pencils, sharpener, pencil case and more already. This will save you a bit of money at the shops.

     

For Kindy kids, the following is basically all you need:

  • Full uniform, school shoes, hat (wide-brimmed is ideal), sunblock, spare clothes if needed (In case of an accident. Pack undies, socks, pants, skirt or skort in a plastic bag).
  • Bag or backpack that is not too big for your child. Something that they can carry without any help.
  • Lunch box packed with a yummy lunch. Give the kids some snacks, finger food, a sandwich and a treat here and there. If your school has a canteen or possibly a tuck shop maybe put a $2 coin in their lunch box so they might get a treat once a week.
  • Water Bottle
  • Smock for creative tasks like painting.
  • Jumper & rain jacket in case the weather changes. If your weather is like mine it can change without notice. You don’t want your little one to be at school and freezing.
  • Make sure to label everything. Kids lose so many things and you want to be able to claim your item in the lost property box.
  • Library Bag ( I made one for the twins so that it is different from the other kids. This way it is easily recognised as theirs)

  • If you are concerned that you have not packed or supplied what is needed, it is always a good idea to check with your child’s teacher.

NOTE: Normally you have a two-week window to get everything organised for the start of the school year. This gives you ample time to source all items.

 

  • Download my FREE Guide to Make a Book Bag

    There are many ways to add your names to items. You can write them on the items with pen or texta, or get actual labels.

Labels can be for clothes, bags, books and more.

One website that we have used and love is called, Stuck On You.  We liked that the labels are unique to each child, and were so fast to arrive.

Just google labels for kids and you get so many choices that I’m sure you will find something that suits your needs.

The above list for Kindy kids was fine until my girls got to third grade. Once we reached this level in primary school we needed to provide more for the kids.

Each grade gets sent a list via the school newsletter and it is also available for purchase from the local newsagency.

If your school uses SkoolBag  (SkoolBag is an app the school uses for all communication, some school use it) then you can download the equipment list from there.

 

What the twins need for grade four: 

  • 2 x 30 cm ruler, clearly labelled with centimetre and millimetre markings (no metal or floppy rulers, please)
  • Scissors
  • Highlighters – at least two different colours
  • 2 glue sticks – 35g
  • 8 lead pencils, HB.
  • Sharpener with container
  • 2 rubbers for lead pencils
  • Coloured pencils
  • Gel pens and textas are optional
  • Pencil case large enough to hold the above items (1 pencil case only, please!)
  • Library bag
  • 4 plastic document wallets A4
  • 2 x 0.4 or 0.5 fine point black pens for map work, labelling and artwork
  • Large sheet of cardboard for Art folder
  • 3 x Lined A4 exercise books for homework/classwork
  • 2 x Boxes of tissues (this helps the classroom if each kid contributes)
  • 1 x packet whiteboard markers
  • USB 4-6GB
  • Drink bottle with water only for drinking during class
  • Please remember a hat each day

For example, grade five will be getting extras like pens as they will have their pen licence (yes this is a thing!), extra workbooks, cardboard for folders and also a calculator for maths.

 

 

This should give you a good idea of what to pack for your child who is starting school this year.

One of the things I do dread is packing the kids lunches, the dread is fuelled by the fact that the twins are so fussy that it is hard to know what to pack.

I want to give the twins something that I know that they will eat, but also try to expose them to new and yummy foods.

Did you know that you can put in tasty, yummy and healthy snacks that will make your job as the chief lunch packer easier.

A simple lunch box.
A simple lunch box.

There is a place called School Snack Box and they can send you a box of snacks that you don’t need to think about.

All you need to do is to pick how many snacks you wish to add to your child’s lunch box and then order the box that is right for you. You can choose from a box with 22 snacks for $40/month, with $15 shipping fee. Or you can get 44 snacks for $80/month and also with an extra $15 shipping fee.

This is a great option if you wish to have different snacks delivered each month. Add something different to the lunch box each day.

Starting big school is a major milestone. I hope your child has a great time.

It’s a massive step when kids start Kindy. You will be emotional even if you have told yourself it won’t happen.

Let it happen and it is all normal.  Trust me, I was happy and still crying.

If you are able to help out at the school, do it. It’s so amazing to see your child thrive and be more confident in their new school.

I volunteered to help with reading when the twins were younger and will do so for Alexander as well when he starts school.

Good luck with term one. I hope your kids have a great time and you do as well.

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Categories
School

NAPLAN Starts for My Kids

Today my little girls sit their first test at school.

Both kids have been doing practice tests for days before today to prepare.

The test they are taking is called NAPLAN.

This test makes sure that kids have the basic skills of reading, comprehension, and maths.

NAPLAN started in schools in 2008 and the following years are tested: Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.

The girls sit the first test for NAPLAN today. It is over 3 days and a big thing in their school life so far. I just told the kids to do their best.
The girls sit the first test for NAPLAN today. It is over 3 days and a big thing in their school life so far. I just told the kids to do their best.

I like the idea of testing and making sure each kid is on track. If they are not, more help will be given to a child that needs assistance with reading or maths.

The results are also helpful for more funding for the school so that the school can help all kids and ones that need some extra help.

One kid this morning looked rather upset and worried. I asked her why she was upset and she said, “I’m worried about NAPLAN Mummy”.

This is what I told my girls before they head to school to do their first major test: 

  • I’m proud of you both.
  • I love you both so much.
  • Do your best. Doing your best is all that anyone can ever ask.
  • Relax, take a deep breath and just pretend it is the practice test that you were doing with your teacher.
  • If you cannot read a question ask your teacher to read it to you.
  • If there are pictures that go with the question look to see if this helps you understand the question more.
  • Do the questions you can do first and see if you can go back and do others if you need more time.
  • I told both kids that they are brainy.
  • They are smart.
  • They are clever little kids that will do well no matter what.
  • It does not matter how they do on the test just that they give it a good go.

I just hope that my kids don’t get freaked out by this test.

I hope that they don’t lose their confidence and shut down for future exams.

I hope they don’t think they have failed. The girls might feel they have not achieved after this test.

One kid reads very well but not perfect, the other kid has some issues and finds some things difficult. I hope that the kid that has some issues with reading does not panic and get upset with what she is being asked on this exam.

As a mother I am sure that I am more worried by all this than they are at this stage. The twins are in grade three and there is plenty of time to get better at things. To be come an expert or a master at maths and reading.

However if there are issues with a child understanding the basics it is a good idea to learn now about what the difficulty is and to get help to fix the issue. The earlier you can help a child that has issues reading, writing, and other things the better their life and time at school will be.

I’m hoping that if there is anything found that we get told so that we can action things now rather than later.

Parents can remove children from sitting the NAPLAN test on special grounds. If you decide to do this you can write a letter to the principal and tell them why you wish your child not to sit the test.

I hope that all kids do well this week sitting the NAPLAN. It must be hard on kids with dyslexia or other issues. I hope that kids that struggle with some things at school don’t feel too stressed taking this test.

This test is over three days. Today is Language conventions for 40mins and then writing for 40mins. Wednesday is Reading for 45 mins, then Thursday is Numeracy for 45mins.  It is a big thing the next couple of days.

I even put love notes into their lunch boxes. The notes tell each child how smart and brainy they are, and also how much mummy loves them.

Good luck everyone.

Remember just do your best and that is all anyone can ask for.

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Categories
School

Twin Classroom Issues

My wonderful girls, very happy starting grade 3.
My wonderful girls, very happy starting grade 3.

My girls have started grade three and since grade one have been in separate classes.

They do say that twins need each other and more so if they are identical. I can say that this has been true to a certain extent for us. The girls are very attached to each other and therefore fret if they are apart for too long.

My wonderful girls, very happy starting grade 3.
My wonderful girls, very happy starting grade 3.

However due to them spending so much time together they get annoying.

By annoying, I mean yelling, hitting, biting, pinching, being naughty, creating problems and so much more. Oh the list goes on.

During the last term of school last year one of my girls was hysterical, upset and just miserable. Why I asked, and the answer was that she wished to be with her sister next year. She wanted to be in the same class, as she felt that she was missing out. Missing out on fun, missing out on friendships and more.

I did try and explain that since she spends so much time with her sister having her own space might be nice. This was met with screaming and yelling and more info about why she should be with her sister. I did not know if this was a good idea but I was very concerned due to how upset she was.

A meeting with the principal was in order to address this issue before school started for 2017. I met with our lovely principal and had some great chats. I explained that this kid was very sensitive and I think due to her attachment with her sister she might be best to be in the same class.

Personally I thought that each child did very well in different classes. Their reports were excellent last year, and I thought that it helps each child to be their own person, developing their own skills and finding what they like on their own. They won’t have each other to help all the time. In life they will have to do things on their own and be able to do this without a crisis.

I did speak with the other kid on her own to see if she wanted her sister to be with her in grade three. She said yes and said all the right things. However I was not convinced. I asked her several times over a couple of weeks and got the same answer. Yes I want my sister to be with me. I still was not sold.

The principal of the twins school met with one of the kids teachers, and found that one kid was doing much better without her sister being with her. The kids are fine together but the teacher thought that the shadow of her sister will make this kid not want to do things, or feel like she is having to do things just because her sister is there.

The kid that told me it was fine for her sister to be in her class, I was told feels pressured to do things that her sister does. Her teacher also mentioned that she is doing much better on her own and due to not reading at the same level (although only a few levels behind her sister might find that she is compared and will not try if they are together).

I do know that the kid that wanted to be with her sister brags about what a good reader she is and this makes her sister feel upset, so I can understand that being separate would have its benefits.

It was decided that the girls would be in different classes although the kid who was hysterical would be upset that is what was going to happen.

I asked if I could find out the teachers they would have for the new year and was lucky to get that info. Normally this does not get revealed until the first day of school.

Due to the fact that one kid was a mess and demanding to be with her sister I decided to tell both last year that they would again be separated and then had the wrath of screaming, yelling and crying that followed. It was horrible. Oh the joys of parenthood!

This kid screamed at the top of her lungs that she that she wanted to be with her sister. Why can’t this happen? Why can’t the school do this for her?

I explained that the teachers had already put both of them into classes prior to me talking to the principal, and after many discussions with the principal and other teachers it was decided that both kids would do better in different classes.

Still heaps of crying and yelling was happening! It did not stop.

All through this situation I was just hoping that we were doing the right thing. What if they need to be together I thought in my head? What if they need the connection to each other?

What would happen if she just had a terrible hysterical fit at the start of school and could not cope?

I was worried. I hope this does not happen.

I decided to tell the kids what teachers they had to make them a little happier about the situation. Well in fact only one kid was halving a terrible time about this. I think the other one was not fussed either way.

After I revealed what teachers they had one kid was very happy and the other was yelling at me again. She wanted to have the same teacher her sister did. Jeez this cannot happen. They are in separate classes! Oh boy back to the same issue about this kid not being happy about this again.

I of course was over it all and just feeling horrible.

 

I just wanted all the upset to go away.

 

I felt for my little girl and told her all the good things that will happen with her new teacher.

 

The girls have some lovely teachers this year. They will have fun, and learn so much. I’m glad that I told them last year as this gave them time to adjust and especially for the one kid who was so upset about it all.

Her new teacher was the same one her sister had when she was in grade one. He is a fabulous teacher, very creative, musical, loves dance and is very switched on. He is a lovely person.

My little girl was not upset but instead was very happy and joined her new class skipping with a smile on her face. She told me today that she loves her new class and teacher. She thinks he is awesome.(Thank goodness for this…I was dreading the outcome if she hated it all)

My other little girl is very happy with her classroom too, and likes the fact that she is doing something different from her sister.

I did explain that the girls will see each other at recess and lunch and also when I pick them up and at home. They won’t miss out on anything, the different classes just give each kid a chance to be themselves and to have some time for them.

I’m glad that both kids are happy in the new classes. The kid that was so upset and emotional about all this last year had me very worried if this was a good idea to keep them separated.

I can see benefits for both sides of the situation. Due to the fact that the girls had already been in separate classes for two years I was not keen on having them together for school again. I know if this needed to happen that is fine, but the kids were doing so well individually.

The girls share a room, I take them with me everywhere, they are rarely apart, so that time in the classroom is time for them.

Here are some links that might help you if you need to decide about separate classes:

The main reasons to separate twins in the classroom is due to competition between each sibling (if your twins are like mine they are super competitive and that then leads to arguments) and one twin being more dominant than the other. Separate classes are thought to help these issues.

Of course it is a personal choice and dependent on what your twins are like. If they are super close and cannot cope with being apart separating them might do more harm than good. It is a case by case situation.

I was asked at the end of kindergarten if hubby and I wished to separate the girls. We thought it was a good idea but were concerned with the fact that they were so close, and might need to be with each other. The school took matters into their own hands and separated them for grade one and they have been in separate classes ever since. I think if it was left up to me, I would have kept them together.

Do you have twins or triplets? Have you separated them for school? Or did you keep them together?

If you separated them do you think they are happier? Let us know.

Categories
School

First Parent Teacher Interview in Different Classes

Today I have the first parent teacher interviews of the year. This is the first year that the girls have been separated, and I am excited to hear how each teacher thinks each kid is going.

One major reason for being keen on hearing teacher feedback is the twins have been mixed up for the last three years. They had two years of pre-school where they got them confused, and in Kindy they were together. I am sure they did get them a bit mixed up, there were comments that I was sure was for the other child and not the one mentioned.

Finally a report for each child and a teacher that will not mix them up! I wonder how much this report will differ from last year?

The classroom all set for parent teacher interviews
The classroom all set for parent teacher interviews

Do you have twins in the same class? Have they been constantly mixed up and confused with report time or parent teacher night or afternoon? Have you made the change to have your twins in different classes? Has this helped them and the teachers know who is who?

The girls are very different people and I am glad that they can express themselves in different classes. It helps each child be themselves and not compared to their sister. It is hard enough looking exactly like the other person. Having time for you and to allow you to just be is needed.

Have you found that your twins have blossomed after being in separate classes. Did you notice this more when you got the first report card? Or was it during the parent teacher interview?

Let us know your thoughts. Why not continue the discussion on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

Categories
School

The Slow Dressers!

Why does it take kids forever to get dressed?

It took the girls well over 40 minutes to get dressed and organised for school this morning!

Yes that is a long time, especially when it should only take about 10-15mins at the most!

Do you find that your little one takes ages doing tasks that should not take forever? I do!

Due to the super long time taken to simply put on a uniform, socks, shoes and brush hair I of course was getting very annoyed. I’m sure if I said, c’mon we are going to the movies, swimming or somewhere fun, they would have magically gotten ready in record time. I have seen it happen so I know they can do it!

After nearly 15 minutes of the kids still being in their birthday suits, I gave the kids an ultimatum. If they were still like this when we had to leave, this is how they would go to school!

This picture shows how this morning went. Giggles, games, and silliness and no getting ready for school!
This picture shows how this morning went. Giggles, games, and silliness and no getting ready for school!

Yes I would have had to put two naked kids in a car and drive to school, but I was prepared to do this.

I would have clothes in the car for them if this did eventuate, but they were lucky that they got with it and managed to get dressed although super slow.

As I was getting upset and angry about this, I took deep breaths and kept on reminding myself. If they don’t get dressed I will leave as promised, and they can deal with it in the car or at school.

I think they saw how annoyed and angry I was at the progress, and realised mummy would follow through with her threat. Scary if they had not dressed well or at all!

I was thinking maybe it is our morning routine that gets them out of sorts. But thinking about it our morning routine is a good one. We get up, eat breakfast, kids pick out their uniform, have a shower, get dressed, get bags sorted and leave for school.

The girls were full of beans and had the giggles which did not help. Maybe I need to have them in separate rooms in the morning to speed up dressing? Have you had to do this? Did it work for you?

Have you ever ended up taking a non-dressed child to school or somewhere else due them not being ready? Let us know what happened.

What is it like at your house? Do the kids muck around and take ages getting ready for school? Or are they good and get ready quickly?

Let us know your thoughts. Why not continue the discussion on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

 

Categories
School

DIY: Sight Words Bingo

Do your children grumble and complain when you want them to practice their sight words?

Mine do!

With school reading starting this week I’m sure you will be practicing with your little ones so that they can progress with their home readers.

It got me thinking…. Why not make it fun?

If it was a game the kids would be more inclined to want to practice. Maybe they would not even realise they are practicing their sight words, and just think it’s a game.

One bingo card for one of my girls
One bingo card for one of my girls

 

What is Sight Word Bingo?

Sight word bingo is like regular bingo but without numbers, it uses words. The words you select are aligned to your child’s level at school and reading.

How to play Sight Word Bingo

  • Each child gets a different bingo card. (When you print out your cards on Sight Word Bingo Creator you can tell it how many cards you need. It automatically creates each card differently for you.)
  • If the child/children are not familiar with the words take a moment and read them with the children. Let them get familiar and know the words before playing. If any child needs any help with the words make sure to give them an extra hand. This game is all about getting to know the words.
  • It is recommended that the adult/parent use the word in a sentence so that the child understands the word and how it is used. For example: “Mummy had to think about where she put her keys.” (This happens a lot, yes I know I should find a place and keep them there.)
  • You can play this game as many times as you like until your child/children know the words. Once they are confident with these words you can then move onto other words.
  • The parent or adult calls out the words one at a time. Once the child hears each word, they cover the word that appears on their bingo card with a marker. (If you don’t have markers how about buttons or bottle tops – cheap and easy to get a hold of)
  • Remember: Not every word is on every card. If every word was on all cards everyone would get bingo.
The words to read out for Sight Word Bingo! Let the games begin.
The words to read out for Sight Word Bingo! Let the games begin.
  • When the child has a whole row of words completed whether horizontal, vertical or diagonal they have won. To win you need to yell, “BINGO!”
The other bingo card for my other lovely girl
The other bingo card for my other lovely girl

 

How do you create your own Sight Word Bingo?

To create your own Sight Word Bingo game, you need to go to the Sight Word Bingo Creator (see below image)

I selected two cards to be created as I have two children. You can select more if you need more.

I selected the Dolch Sight words and ticked the box for 1st Grade. As you can see there are more grades to choose from and different selections of sight words.

 

BingoCardCreator_web

Once all selected and confirmed a PDF is generated that allowed me to save and to print.

I would recommend printing on thicker paper so that the Bingo Card lasts a bit longer and maybe laminating it so that it can be used again and again.

Have fun with your Sight Words Bingo and I hope this will help your little one learn more words.

Disclaimer: I was looking online and found the SightWords website. I was so taken with their free resources to help children read, and making these tools accessible is fabulous. I have not been paid to promote SightWords and had to share this great website as helping your little one read is very important.

Do you practice sight words with your child/children at home? Help at school for reading?

 

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Categories
School

First 3 Days of Grade One

As you know the twins are in different classes for grade 1 and both seemed very happy with this when they left with their new classes, and from my last post you would know it was me that was the most seemed upset about this. I have been questioning why and I believe that I thought the girls would be more emotional by being apart than they were. In reality they were fine.

I was not opposed to separating the kids and believe that this will help in their development and confidence. However due to past behaviour and of course asking the kids what they wanted to do regarding school, I thought being together was the way to go. The girls both told me together and separately that they wished to be in the same class. So I thought that this would be the best way to go.

Last Thursday was the girls second day of school and one kid was very clingy and upset. She did not want me to leave. I stayed for a little bit and tried to remove myself from the classroom with little disruption to my girl and of course the classroom and teacher. My attempts did not work and she was hanging onto me very tightly and like her life depended on it. I was not sure if she was just a little sensitive that day or if she was missing her sister. She seemed okay to be in a class without her twin so I did not bring it up. I did not want to allow her to think that she cannot be in a classroom and develop by herself.

The twins first day of grade 1
The twins first day of grade 1. Wearing their new YUUworld Bags.

When I left the teachers aide said that she could be the class helper. She sat near the teacher and was promised to help. I thought this was great as this was my queue to exit the room and when I looked back she had a smile on her face. My little one does love helping and doing things for the teacher and others.

My other little girl, was busy with her work in her class and did not look bothered. I waved her goodbye and she gave me a wave and a smile. All good I thought.

The girls are in a composite class of kids who are grade 1 and grade 2 students. The teachers and students are all learning about each other and understanding what level each child is at for work and learning names and so on.

The kid who was clingy was very upset on Thursday night and told me that she was not allowed to help in the class, that the older kids got different work and that she was doing Kindy work and it was boring! She told me she wanted to learn everything and do more and that the teacher was not allowing her to look at the bigger kids worksheets.

I sat down and listened to what she was saying and explained the following:

  • The class is made up of kids who are at different levels for work – she is in grade 1 while the other kids are in grade 2. The teacher gave each child different work due to their ability and year. It is not that she might not be able to do it, just due to getting to know students and finding out what kids can and cannot do. I also said that it is only day 2 of school and I am sure things will be harder soon and that she will be challenged by the grade 1 work as well.
  • The teacher is trying to get to know all the kids with some fun games and just because it is easy and similar things that they did last year does not mean that she will not learn new things. From what I understand the teacher is easing the kids into the week to then settle them and then coordinate the work in the weeks to come.
  • I asked her what she was not allowed to help with and she did not say, but said everything. I said maybe there was a valid reason for this. I said, that I am sorry that she did not help and that she was upset.
  • I also learnt that the older kids counted to 100 unassisted and by themselves and the grade 1’s did not. She and her sister can do it and she wanted to show the teacher how clever she was with counting and numbers, but was not given the chance.

I don’t know if I got a straight story about the day but I know the following things, she was upset, she was told she would help and then did not and could not show that she could do higher work like the grade 2’s.

Friday came and this was day 3 of the first week of school. I felt uneasy as I had to go and have a chat with one of my child’s teacher’s and it was only day 3 of the first week. I did not want to be seen as a problem parent or fussy mother, but I thought I should address some of the issues early on. If I left it and it got overlooked due to me not saying anything I would hate myself. I don’t want me not speaking up to be the reason that a child gets frustrated and does not try at school.

  • I told the teacher that I do understand that it is early days and just the first couple of days of school. I know that she is dealing with different levels in the classroom, I do understand that grade 1 kids might not get the grade 2 work and that is fine. However if a grade 1 child is clever and can attempt the grade 2 work why not let them.
  • I asked about the fact that she got upset that she could not help out in class after she was told she could. The teacher did not realise and said that she will make sure she can help next time.
  • I mentioned that my girls are the same age as some of the grade 2 kids due to the fact that they had their birthday at the end of the year so therefore were 5 before they started school. The twins will be turning 7 this year when a majority of grade 1’s are turning 6. Some are like the girls and are turning 7 but they are a year older than their year.
  • Due the kids not being able to be at school when they were 5, both had 2 years at pre-school and now kindy so they are bursting at the seams to learn and do more.
  • I just wanted to address the fact that she is bright, wants to do more and is getting upset that she is seen as a little kid who cannot. The teacher understood and I am hoping that if she does grade 1 work she might get the chance to do grade 2 or at least see it.
  • It is a new class, new teacher, and kids. I told the teacher that I do understand it is early days and it is a big change for the girls.

My immediate thought with the composite class was that they will learn so much. My fear now is that they will be stuck with grade 1 work even if they do well, above and beyond. I hope that they get exposed to more being in a class with grade 2 kids and with more things to learn.

I am worried it will be an impediment and they will get angry if they cannot learn more in this class (If they excel at grade 1 work that is; I would just be happy if they do well with what is offered in grade 1) Has this happened to you?

Our school is great and the teachers are amazing. I have done my part and mentioned how my little girl was feeling and what she is capable of. Let’s just see what happens in term 1. It is all new and a learning curve for the girls. Grade 1 is a big step compared to Kindy.

I must say that the start of grade 1 was more stressful for me than the start of Kindergarten. I was concerned about the kids being split up, the issue with one of the kids being worried and upset, and there is another issue; The school has had more enrollments and there will be another class of kids for grade 1. Gosh, will they split up the kids again?????

I had a word to the principal and mentioned that we are fine with the twins being in different classes, but thought that it might be a drama if they get moved again. I mentioned that if we can, can the kids stay where they are? I do understand if we have to move due to numbers and was told I will be consulted if this would happen (Not sure if it will happen but I have not received a phone call with any updates, so think all is well). I think due to the big change of different classes, and all different ways of doing things, moving kids again might not be a good idea. Have your kids been moved after settling into a classroom and a teacher?

Today is the start of week 2 for school and the kids have now been told of the new class for grade 1. Both kids are telling me they want to move to the new classroom…. oh the joys of grade 1 currently. I believe that it might take a while to adjust to the new way of doing things but all will be fine! It might take a good month to do this but it will happen.

How have your twins handled the start to school? Are they in Kindy, Grade 1 or another grade. Maybe in high school? Do they share a classroom or have they been separated for a while now. Let us know.

 

Categories
School

Grade 1 and Separate Classes

Today is the first day of school and the kids first day in grade 1. Yes my little girls are getting bigger and they are both so pleased to be the bigger kids now in grade 1.

It would have been nicer if the weather was sunny and not overcast with non stop rain but you cannot have everything. The girls were saying that they were hoping it was a good day to play outside but were a bit disappointment due to having to be inside on days like this at school.

In preparation for school starting I purchased new hats, new socks, new shoes (of course they have grown and I had to get bigger shoes) and polo shirts. I was lucky to be given the great YUUWorld Bags for the girls, which the kids were telling all their friends about the new bag and how amazing it is! (Get 10% off your very own YUUworld Bag until 10th of Feb) Did you stock pile supplies in anticipation of school going back? I was lucky to see the shoes that the girls wanted last year in the right size this year and to find two pairs was good work.

firstdayofgrade1I had to wake the kids up as they were so tired from the night before and of course have been sleeping in due to holidays. I really hate waking sleeping children… my instinct is to walk away and to let them sleep, however this will do no good if they need to be at school. Plus leaving them sleep will mean a later start which is not good on the first day and of course possible kids not wanting to go and therefore ruining mummy’s first day off in a while.

Did you have to wake up kids for school today? Or was I the only one?

I got kids up at 7am and I had breakfast ready for them. Weet-Bix is their favourite and they finsihed that off in no time. Then after breakfast I make them get their clothes ready for school before they get into the shower. Having their clothes ready means they are all ready once dry to put on the uniform and be ready to leave.

While the kids were in the shower I made their lunches as we had a late night last night I did not make them like I normally do. All lunches done I packed up their new funky school bags from YUUWorld and we were all ready to drive off to school. It took a bit longer in the fog and the rain but we got there. Pity that the streets were not like last week and I could not find a park (last week the streets were empty and parking was so easy). Park finally sorted, we then walked to school to then find out no one knew where we were supposed to be.

Finally the kids went to their old teacher from last year and classroom and then they came to the hall were all the parents were waiting. Once all kids and teachers were at the hall the children were put into classes. I was thankful that they did the younger kids first and then I could leave the hall.

The first class was called and my girls were not in that one. Must be the next one they will be in. The second one had Lillian in but not Julia. OH NO! Will Julia be okay? Lillian was smiling and I could not see Julia. The class Lillian is in is a mixture of grade 1 kids and grade 2 children. So that is good and I’m pleased for this. I think different levels help learning and inspire the younger ones to do more or get exposed to what the others are doing.

Lillian has a male teacher and one of the parents thinks he might be a temp but I hope not. He seems lovely and I hope he stays. It would be nice to have more male teachers at the school as they seemed to only have one last year and it helps with diversity.

Now Lillian’s class went off and she bent down to kiss and hug Julia. That was nice… I was very pleased to see this.

Julia’s class was called and then they went off to their classroom. Julia has a wonderful teacher also and her class is a mix of grade 1’s and grade 2’s as well. So again a good mix.

Both kids have some good mates in their class and seemed to be very happy.

Once the first kid got put in her class and the other was not called, my heart sank. I was upset and worried about how the kids would react. Would they cry, yell or get very upset. Would this be a drama and a meltdown???? I had no idea. I braced myself for it. I was holding back some upset and tried not to cry. I know silly really but I was feeling what I thought they would feel. I ended up being the only one crying but I was happy…. I was just emotional and dealing with the shock I suppose of having the kids separated when I thought they were going to be together. I am very pleased that the kids were happy and adjusted well…. Now I just need to work on me adjusting to the new situation.

They are in separate classes for the first time

Hubby and I have been thinking separate classes was the way to go and their kindy teacher last year said she thought that might be a good idea. I was asked and I thought from the discussions that they were going to be put together. No not to be. I am pleased that this was what the school decided and in a way it was out of my control.

One kid gets very annoyed when the other does something she could not or is trying to do. It is not a bad thing but it might take more than one or two goes to get a new skill or technique. Sometimes things work or go well sometimes they don’t. Both the girls are on track and are very similar so if one does not get something it is only the next week or the next day or so when it all equals out.

I do feel that this will help them individually and allow them to be their own person. Being identical twins is one thing but always getting mistaken for the other in the classroom would be annoying. Different classes and teachers will also show the strengths of both children. I sometimes thought that the teacher was mixing up things in the report card and that is easy to do when there are two children doing the same work and you wonder who did what.

I was just very worried as they are both so connected emotionally and was fearful that they might pine for each other and not do well. I know this is good for their growth and development; the classrooms they are in are right next door so they can come and see each other if they want to. They see each other at recess and lunch and of course share a room at home. One big plus is that they will have a lot more to tell mummy and daddy about their day as it will be completely different. They will have their own stories not shared ones, how cool will that be!

My challenge now is to do reading for both kids in the different classes and try to be there for events and special occasions for each classroom. I hope the kids have a good day at school and love their new classes. I hope they like being in their own class and not with their sister.

How have you gone on the first day back at school? Was your child/children happy to go or were there tears? Hope all went well and now to plan my time in the next few weeks.

Question:

If you have twins or multiples have you put them in different classes? When did you split them up. The girls were together for two years of pre-school and also to last year in Kindergarten. Let us know.

 

Categories
School

School Lunchbox Inspiration

Does making school lunches make you cringe? It makes me wonder what I could add to the lunch boxes this year to keep little people interested and maybe try a new food or two. Yes I have two very fussy eaters. I never thought this would happen, as hubby and I are not fussy and try and experience different foods all the time. However my little ones don’t.

I have struggled to change this and I try and add a new food here and there to keep interest up and to add to their diet. One kid would like to be  Junior Masterchef and I use this to get her to try more foods than she would normally. She does a test taste a few things due to me saying as a Masterchef she needs to know what they taste like.

LB 15 mkp_2015-01-08_0333

So as you can imagine making two very fussy kids lunch boxes for school is a chore and I never know what to pack. I do try to make it healthy and a good mix of things. I normally have a sandwich of Vegemite/cheese/chicken/turkey, some piece of fruit either, watermelon, apples, pears, strawberries or a banana. I also sometimes throw in yoghurt, carrot and some other snacks. I do give a treat every know and then and that could be some biscuits, a cake we cooked at home or a square of extra extra dark chocolate.

Sometimes the kids do have a canteen lunch and I lived in hope that they would see things on the menu and want to give it a go. The school they go to has a very healthy canteen so if they order something it should not be too bad and crossing fingers might expose them to different foods and tastes.

LB13 mkp_2015-01-08_0275

“With nutrition at the heart of IGA’s lunchbox inspirations,the local grocer has worked closely with a local nutritionist to ensure the

recipes have plenty of healthy options for parents to choose from, presented in a creative way for kids to enjoy.”

Are you like me and require some inspiration for kids lunches? IGA has some great lunch box ideas and I’m sure that you will be a lunchbox legend as well.  Since school is going back next Wednesday in NSW, this might give a hand to make the first week back easier.

Tips from IGA to help you make some awesome school lunches:

  • Cut out sandwiches with a cookie cutter. Make it a fun shape that your child/children will love. I have done this and been very surprised it worked so well. I used hearts, cars, flowers and other fun shapes. The kids came home and said I loved my stars and hearts.
  • Create the “WOW” factor with colour. Kids love colour and this will keep them interested in their lunch box
  • Bake some healthy cakes/muffins/cupcakes. Store the left over-overs in the freezer so that they are ready for the school lunch box. They’ll stay fresh and be ready to eat by morning tea.
  • Pack the lunch box the night before. This help if you are rushed and feeling pressured to get it all done in the morning. I pack the twins lunches the night before and it saves a lot of hassle and stress. All I need to do is to get the lunch boxes in the bag and kids out the door and all is good.
  • If you child or kids love to help in the kitchen, get them to help and give a hand to sorting out their lunch box. This way they are more inclined to eat what they pack.

I will be checking out the suggestions from IGA as they look like great inspiration and ideas. As you already know dealing with fussy kids is never easy so any ideas that help is a good thing.

 Thursday

Did you know?

“Two thirds of parents are feeling the pressure from other parents, teachers or friends, and a quarter (28 per cent) that say there is even competition among other parents when it comes to preparing school lunches” IGA (Independent Grocers of Australia)

I am not sure if this has happened to me as no one has said anything and I really don’t care about what other parents do with their kids lunch boxes. I am more worried about my kids.

 

For more information please visit:

Visit www.iga.com.au/school for easy and inspirational lunchbox idea or Join the conversation today at https://www.facebook.com/igaAustralia or via @igaaustralia on
Twitter.

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post for IGA. I have decided to support their healthy stance on school lunches and due to my kids being fuss pots I am interested in anything that will make them eat good healthy food. I hope this helps you out and gives you some more ideas on how to get kids interested and for school lunch box ideas.

Wednesday

 

Categories
5 years and beyond School

Kindy is a hit

The girls have taken to big school very well, and are enjoying it. On the first day there was a little confusion with one child. She did not understand when they all walked out the room at the end of the day and got their bags that the school day was done.

She raced out upset, crying and very shaken. She then told us after asking for a while what was the matter? she then told us, “They left her!”, “Even the teacher did not help me with my bag!” I was not sure how one child knew what to do and the others, and of course my other little girl did not. I can only imagine that she was involved in her colouring or activity that she did not hear the instruction.  Then when the kids walked out of the room she was of course thinking they were coming back. We of course consoled her and explained that it was the end of the school day and no one was leaving her.

So far the kids like school, but I do think it is making them exhausted. This is great if they just got home and crashed out. Not to be. They fit it and stay up! This in turn creates snarkiness, anger, and both of them being awful to each other. This charming behaviour then does not help anyone, and gets me and hubby upset.

The twins had their swimming lesson today and I hoped that this would have knocked them out by the time we got home. No, they had to wait until the limits were pushed and everyone was getting into trouble.

Although it was a disaster tonight they fell asleep quite quickly. Maybe next week will be different. My poor little babies are so tired. They are sleeping in the morning and not helping themselves by staying up late.

I am putting them to bed at a reasonable hour, but they muck up. Did your kids/child do this when they first started school?

I am pleased that they are meeting new kids and making friends. However I was told today one of our girls got told to stop making popping noises with her mouth and finger. She is very clever now doing it, but when the teacher is talking not a good idea. The other child joined in other kids making zapping noises with her mouth and was told to refrain from the teacher as well. Day 3 and they are already being told not to do something.

They are little and don’t so are still pushing limits and learning the rules. Let me know your stories and how your little one is going at their first taste of big school.

Categories
5 years and beyond School

Big School Starts Today

My little girls start school or should I say my big girls. They have grown up a lot and I cannot believe they will be at school today and all week.

Below is a picture of the girls and I soon after they were born. They were 6 weeks early and of course tiny as you can see from the picture.

Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Katoomba Hosp. Julia on left, Lillian on right.
Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Katoomba Hosp. Julia on left, Lillian on right.
Julia and Lilian on last day of school for term 1 2012 for preschool
Julia and Lilian on last day of school for term 1 2012 for preschoolLast day of school

 

Last day of School for 2012
Last day of School for 2012
The girls last day of preschool 2013 - Look how big and grown up they are!
The girls last day of preschool 2013 – Look how big and grown up they are!

They will be in their school uniform and I don’t post in regards to the school they go to and show the uniform but look how much they have grown. They are going to look so cute in their uniform and have such a great day. Hope they have a great time and really enjoy themselves.

Of course I will take pictures for me and to remember their first day. Hubby has the day off so that he can be there for their first day. You might think that today is going to be relaxing afterwards, but not to be. I have a tonne of things to get done.

Kids are now out of the shower and off to help them get into school uniforms and reach all the draws in their new room.