Learning about Thanksgiving (and more)

Hi Families,

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!

What an interesting day!
First we all brainstormed what we knew about why we have Thanksgiving and how this celebration began. Few children could tell about the pilgrims, the Mayflower, the colony, and the first Thanksgiving.
(We had talked and read about this last week but children have no connection with long ago and people they don't know).
Next, I briefly talked about the pilgrims, the Mayflower etc. We went to the world rug and looked at where the pilgrims lived before they sailed to America. Then we enjoyed watching a short cartoon movie called The Origins of Thanksgiving (10 mins), which featured Charlie Brown (as one of the pilgrims). The children LOVED it and learned a lot.

Later on in the morning we watched the second half of the movie (10 mins.), and then responded to the movie by drawing and writing about it.
Here are the links to the movie in case you would like to watch it again with your child.

part 1:http://youtu.be/yRobYUSZ4do
part 2:http://youtu.be/yeAtelXK9P4

Did you know that one of the main beams on the Mayflower cracked on the way to America? Find out more interesting facts watching the movie with your child and then discuss it together.

This afternoon Ms. Brittany's third grade crew joined us to share the tall tale stories they had created. Our children were delighted and enjoyed hearing the stories. Next, each kindergartner read some of the books from his/her book box to the third grade buddies.

We also made turkey decorations but were a little rushed for time.
Here is the link to the video which shows how to make the turkey (in case your child wants to finish the turkey or make another).
http://youtu.be/JBOMwSLT2Ko

I hope you enjoy the photos of the third grade buddies reading to our crew.
If the photo is black, click on the arrow (bottom, left) it should become a very short video.
Please email and let me know if you can see these pictures.
Thanks,
Kathy