Skippy the Guinea Pig

Skippy is our stuffed class pet.  You may have read about another famous guinea pig's adventures in a second grade class in the Fluffy the Guinea Pig book series by Kate McMullan, who visited OHES in the past for an author presentation.  He is used as an inspiration for writing, sharing and responsibility.  He is a motivational tool for behavior and a reward for great behavior and effort.  Skippy spends his week in his cage in our classroom, watching and learning from the second graders around him. He is often used as an example or as part of a lesson.  We love to read with him at special reading times and write him notes.  Every weekend, Skippy likes to go on an adventure to one of our houses to get to know us better and have some fun.  The child who takes Skippy home will receive a note from him on the Thursday of that week and will take him home in his cage with some of his books and accessories on Friday.  This is an optional activity, but rarely will a student refuse the chance, especially after they see others do it.  During their weekend together each child is encouraged to have parents take photos of activities they do together to share with the class verbally that Monday.  Lucky students will take Skippy home over vacations and extended weekends! There will be second turns for anyone who would like later on in the year.

Help your child to be responsible for Skippy and his materials by keeping him away from pets, food, and very small children.  He will sometimes return to my house to visit the “guinea pig spa”, otherwise known as my washing machine, when he gets too dirty.  Return all of Skippy’s belongings to his cage when finished.   Skippy will have his first adventure later in the month of October.   Skippy would love to visit your house!!