This is the question we asked friends as they gathered together on the oval rug. We discussed what a neighborhood IS and then one by one and two by two friends ran to the front and back doors to observe River Park, the Wee Friends neighborhood. They returned with lots of information about what makes a neighborhood: cars, trees, sidewalks and people walking on them, logs and houses were among the many observations they made.

While in our circle, we learned the Sesame Street song “Who Are the People in Your Neighborhood?” and belted it out while waiting for friends to return from their research.

Then we invited our Wee Friends and neighbors to the art table where we have begun a 3D model of River Park. With recycled packaging materials, friends created elaborate houses and river boats and fences.

Max and Finn began construction on a railroad.

Sisters Jane and Macy created a house and engaged several friends in an imaginary family exploration.

We have increased our Magna Tile set and friends continue to work with these math tools, ever expanding the complexity of their creations.

Outside, throughout our winterized classroom, the ice offered Wee Friends a very interesting science experiment. First, friends found a shovel, frozen in a pool of water in the back of a toy truck. Melinda led them in their quest to find out “How can we get the shovel out?” After much collaborative problem solving, the accomplished their mission! Then everyone got crazy about ice-running all over the playground looking for ice patches and working to dislodge them.

Next, they found rocks and shovels frozen solid in a black bin. Ellie thought it was the funniest thing she’s ever seen. Again, a conversation ensued about how to get the plastic shovels out. Finn suggested they pour hot water over it and Ada thought putting it where the sun would shine upon it would do the trick. We decided to bring it indoors and study how long it will take for the ice to melt.

Finding the ice, cracking it against the sidewalk and eating it filled the remaining moments of our outside time.

We warmed up inside with a hiding/guessing game: Who is That Friend in Our Neighborhood? Each friend had a chance to hide while the others guessed who was missing, singing our song all the while.

Wee Sprouts: Cucumber slices. Breakfast: Oatmeal and bananas. Lunch: Cous-cous and chicken, peas and pear slices. Snack: Whole wheat pancakes and bananas.

Conversation Starters:

• Who are the people in our neighborhood?
• What happens to ice when it melts?
• Look out the window-can you find your letter?

Have a great day.