Happy New Year

‘Tis the night before the first day of 2015, and I find myself wondering, “What happened to the month of December?” I remember running around each day attempting to be “ready”, but never achieving my goal! If anyone has a better way to prepare for the joyful holiday season, please share. I could use some advice!

With the holidays behind me, it’s time to think about getting back to kindergarten, kids, and winter ideas! As I teach in southern California, many of my kids have never played, touched, or even seen REAL snow ... until TODAY! Yes, it’s true! There was a small dusting of snow last night and we woke up to see white roofs! You can’t imagine the excitement that this rare act of nature sparks!

The kids can’t wait to go outside and attempt to make a snowball with the smallest amount of snow you can imagine ... just to throw it and announce, “Look at my snowball!” Giggles and laughter follows, and eventually cold fingers and toes too! 

Our snow doesn’t last long, but it’s enough to signal “hot chocolate and marshmallow time.” I grew up in Maine, and the thought of hot chocolate and marshmallows brings warm memories back to me of times playing in the snow with family and friends. This memory inspired my January Take-Home Calendar: A mug of hot chocolate!

Last year, the children loved making the calendar while eating a few mini marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate as a class! It was a memorable way to celebrate the new year together!

You can find the calendar patterns and directions at my TPT store: Kindergarten with Susie. For the first 24 hours of every posting my products are 50% off.

I’m looking forward to a bright and healthy new year filled with new friends and adventures! Thank you for sharing with me and keeping my spirits high with your encouragement.