Ashley Read '05, Head of Early Childhood

November 10, 2023

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Dear Families,

Students have enjoyed complimenting each other this week. We learned that we can compliment each other on simple, noticeable things such as the way we look or dress, but the words that have a deeper meaning are when we compliment each other on our actions. “Wow! I love how Teddy is so patiently waiting for his friends by holding the door open!” 

It has been a busy week in the ECC! Fall Showcases, a visit from a Police Officer and an Air Force Veteran, Election Day voting, to name a few.

Community Helpers: Officer Trowbridge, an Arlington Police Officer and Oakridge Campus Officer visited our Preschool, Pre-K and Kindergarten classes on Monday. He talked to our students about safety and how and when to call 9-1-1. One of my favorite parts of the day was observing a group of our Pre-K friends work together to creatively build a police car and police station out of Legos. What a great example of dramatic play at the ECC! Did you know that Dramatic Play (pretend or dress-up play) provides children with the chance to express themselves, share thoughts and ideas, and even get in touch with their feelings? When children have ample opportunities for Dramatic Play, they are developing:

• Conflict resolution skills

• Creative problem-solving skills

• Exploring self-empowerment

• Developing language skills

• Practicing self-regulation

You can support Dramatic Play at home. Consider setting up a space at home where your child can dress up and role-play. 

 

Election Day: Kindergarten students traveled to the polls on Election Day, November 7, to decide the ultimate winner between the Double Stuffed Oreo and the Birthday Cake Oreo. The votes are in and (drum roll please!) Double Stuff was the winner by a landslide!

Visit from Air Force Veteran: With Veteran’s Day being observed on November 11, Pre-K students enjoyed a visit from a special guest, Air Force Chief Gaspar (or some may refer to him as “Mrs. Gaspar’s husband). Chief Gaspar showed the students medals and discussed the importance of our military. Each child left with his/her very own American Flag to honor our country. We are so grateful for special guests that can add true meaning to our learning.

 

Visiting Author: Mrs. DeWinter, our school librarian, is excited to share that author Christ Barton will be visiting with our Kindergarten students on November 29 during the school day. Click here to learn more about the author visit and how to purchase a book for the author to sign for your child.

Fall Showcases: What a treat it was to watch our tiniest Oakridge Owls practice public speaking, rhythm, spatial awareness, following directions and so much more as they shined during their Fall Showcases. Coach T and the students should be so proud of their efforts. 

Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day: On Friday, November 17, we invite all ECC Grandparents’/Grandfriends’ to join us for a very special day as we honor our loved ones. Grandparents will begin their morning on the main campus with coffee and breakfast, followed by a performance in the Fine Arts Performance Hall, and will conclude their morning visiting with their grandchild at the ECC from 10:40 - 11:30 a.m. See flyer below with specific timing and details. Friday is also an 11:30 dismissal. 

Sincerely,

Ashley Read, Oakridge Class of 2005
Head of Early Childhood