ELA: We are in the middle of our unit on poetry. Ask your kiddo about Love That Dog!
Social Studies: We are working through Chapter 6: Geographic Regions of the Western Hemisphere.
I just love when I meet fellow humans who share my affinity for elf culture (special thanks to Buddy)! I hope your elf is enjoying these weeks as much as I am!
Please ask your elves about how they are spreading cheer to the adults in our building. I have the great fortune of seeing the smiles and hearing the gratitude of the recipients, and while I make sure to share the reactions with your kiddos, it doesn't equate to how it feels when you see or hear the reaction first-hand. Which makes this activity even more powerful. Just like our small real-life gestures, we will never know where our kindness ends up. Doing something without the expectation of recognition or thanks is the ultimate in altruism, and the foundation for a world I believe we would all love to live in.
While academics is obviously the focus of our day, we know that the true work of school cannot happen unless basic needs are met. You all do the hard work of setting your child up for success each day and sending them to us ready to learn. But even with your diligence, things get messy. Peer relationships become increasingly central to a 5th graders' sense of self and the world around them. One sideways look, a huffy comment, or something more obvious can derail any chance your child has at giving their best that day.
What I witness on a daily basis is people figuring out their own humanity. And sometimes it's not pretty. But it is always honest, and it is always full of opportunity. Which is why this focus of making peoples' days better is so critical, especially for those early in their life journey. Kindness is contagious, and the more we do simple things for others (holding a door open, sharing a smile, etc.), the more automatic those actions become...and the more inclined others are to do the same. Life doesn't often give you "grand gesture" moments (thankfully, I've never been in the position to rescue anyone from a burning building), but it does give you endless opportunities to share kindness. And those small kindnesses create a ripple effect that extends far beyond what you or I will ever know. The power we have as people living together on this planet is mighty. Make one person smile, and there's no telling what that smile will end up doing for the recipient, and for those who come in contact with them. Such power we all have!