Two of the “Big Ideas” in the Kindergarten Social Studies Curriculum are understanding our own personal identity to appreciate how others perceive their identities; and that individuals and families need to make choices about their needs and wants based on their limited resources.

During our Library Time this week, Mrs. Kennedy, our Teacher-Librarian explored the concept of family by brainstorming everything the children knew about families.  In looking through their list, it’s clear that the people in their immediate and extended families are uppermost in the Kindergarten mind.  Others sought clarification about cousins, aunts and uncles.  Some of this language was new for many of our Kindergarten students

Then, Mrs. Kennedy began reading aloud from the outstanding book, Families, by Mary Hoffman and Ros Asquith.  The additions to the children’s understanding of family shows the new vocabulary they learned, and how family members can have more than one role, depending upon one’s perspective.

Our Sharing Theme in class this month has been on Family.  The children have been sharing a family photo with the class and highlighting three activities their families enjoy doing together.  We have created a “Family” photo wall in our classrooms. This ties in nicely with the theme they will now be focussing on during their weekly library visits.