Potpourri: Skate, Throw, Catch, Jump, Scoot

It's been a fun week on the ice and in the gym!
Let's start with JK! My 4 year old friends have been learning about the safety rules for riding on a scooter, then practicing riding them in a safe way. Our scooter rules include no standing on the scooters (our most important rule), stay away from others on scooters, and be very careful of your hand and fingers on the scooter. The children have been so careful, but have also had fun exploring ways to ride. We also played with jump ropes again, and I reminded the children that when I was 4 I couldn't jump yet either.... BUT with practice and practice, and more practice they will be "so totally awesome" by the time they are in SK. And they really are getting better. Some have even mentioned that they might ask Santa for a rope.... great stocking stuffer!!!
The first and second graders have been amazing on the ice. Everyone can skate forwards and backwards, and most can stop on a signal. Their progress and enthusiasm has been great. I added some dancing on the ice this year, and the children really seem to enjoy the challenge. Plus it really works their balance and keeps them moving in a fun way!
The third and fourth graders are finishing their throwing and catching unit this week. We have been working on our form through drills, games, and a self-assessment. I think the biggest hit was a new game called castle ball where the children need to work together to build 3 castles for their team using 6 hula hoops for each castle. Then they try to knock down the other team's caslte by throwing balls. If one of your castles falls down, you can set it back up, but hurry because if all three are down at once the game is over. So much excitement in the gym!
The third graders also went out today and we had a couple of contests using the wet snow that fell last night: tallest snowman and prettiest. The children worked very hard for about 25 minutes straight, pushing around that heavy snow. I think I wore them out, and they had a blast working together and divising strategies for "winning" the contests. No prizes, just for fun! And it was SOOOOOO much fun!
I am gearing up for our last week before break! I know the children will have lots of energy and I am excited to help them use it! Stay safe on your winter drives.