IMPORTANT DATES AND REMINDERS
4/19: Parent Teacher Conferences (No optional care for 3s and up)
4/22: Earth Day, Elementary Outdoor Experience, PreK-4 Toy Swap
4/24: Epcot Field trip (K-5)
Lower School Highlights
Lower school children dug into fossils and paleontology this week, studying dinosaurs and rock layers in the Earth. 2 chrysalises now hang delicately in the butterfly box, which serves as a living demonstration of plant and animal life cycles. Students also continued their studies of the Everglades, learning about the differences between alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and turtles, as well as how climate and environment interact. Lastly, classes are putting incredible time and effort into constructing pieces for their Project Recycling Runway Show- a celebration of what’s possible when we rethink the way we use everyday materials.
A Note from Kris
Build Together, Grow Together
Why blocks are so important
When children build together, they explore math and science concepts and develop their social and early literacy skills. Children can use any building material—from a fort of branches on the playground to a block city in the classroom, or a hideaway made from couch pillows at home.
EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE
“My coworkers- who are funny, encouraging, smart, and creative- are my favorite thing about working at Collage”, says Yvette Delport, Spotted 3 teacher. She continues, “The kids in this class have shown such awesome growth this year. A lot them came in shy, not talking much, unsure of what to do or how to act. Now, those same kids love to communicate, play with their friends, and show how confident they’ve become.”
Asked her thoughts about Collage as a program, she responds, “I love having the resources and enriched education of a large school, but housed here in a small school, with a community feel. I also really like how the teachers here are such strong educators. They come from different backgrounds and experiences, but all share a commitment for the care and education of children.”
Yvette is a friendly and dedicated employee, who can be found on any given day lending an encouraging and supportive word to staff and students alike, and we feel lucky to have her on our team.
Upper School Highlights
Hard at work themselves, Upper School kids studied eclipses, and began preparing for Earth Day by starting to discuss ways to help the Earth. Classes also read nonfiction books about baby animals, and followed writing prompts to create informative writing pieces. Other students examined the effects of climate on weather patterns in the United States, dove into test prep skills, and began laying groundwork for their next PBL project- researching a local or worldwide problem and formulating a solution.
Summer Camp 2024
Preparations are well underway for Collage’s 2024 Summer Camp, and we’re proud to announce new and exciting expansions to our program. For our youngest, Preschool-aged campers, Camp Collage and TimberNook will be filled with outdoor crafts and activities, as well as weekly on-site field trips with a new theme each week!
For our campers aged 5 and up, along with participation in Camp Collage and TimberNook, new mini-camp choices will be offered, including:
Ballet and Contemporary Dance
Horsin’ Around
Lacrosse
Princess Ballet
Improv
Cheer
In My Summer Era
Track and Field
Color Theory and Art Exploration
Volleyball
Culinary Connoisseurs
Kids Eye View
Marine Biology
Flag Football
Soccer
Roblox
Archery
LEGO
Pickleball
Watercolor Exploration
We can’t wait to see what amazing things our campers create this summer, and we hope to see you all there!
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO SIGN UP:
For direct questions, reach out to Tiffany Clark, at clark@collagedayschool.org
Curriculum Corner: MAP TEST PREP
As we approach the end of the year, teachers are beginning to prep our students for the end-of-year Spring MAP assessments. Teachers will spend time reviewing concepts and skills addressed in the first half of the year in Reading and Math. In addition, teachers are modeling and teaching test-taking strategies, and offering students helpful habits to help improve performance, increase confidence, and reduce test anxiety. We hope you can help us by ensuring your child comes to school on time, every day, ready to learn, and refrain from picking them up early in order to maximize instructional minutes. MAP testing begins May 1st for students in kindergarten through 5th grade. Please refer to your child’s teacher for specific testing dates.
Earth Day Toy Swap
Collage Day School Talent Show!
UNIFORM SALE!
COLLAGE AFTERSCHOOL ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITY:
SOCIAL SKILLS GROUP**
For many children, managing the social world day in and day out eventually presents challenges. Some children may struggle with social flexibility, or sudden frustration, or wanting to engage but just struggling to figure out how. Mandala Family Wellness is proud to offer a group designed to improve children’s confidence, fluidity, and excitement about making and maintaining friendships. Guided by Mandala therapists, children will learn highly effective and applicable social skills to improve their navigation of relationships and bolster their self-esteem.
** Social skills group is now open to 3, 4, and 5-year-olds with our "Little Leaders" program.
To sign up, contact Sierra Sternberg at: sternberg@mandalafamilywellness.com
Staying Healthy with Nurse Chelsea
SKIN INFECTIONS
While no fun to talk about, staying informed about common skin infections and ways to treat them is an important part of maintaining the health of your child, your family, and your community. Below is information regarding common infections and the ways to deal with them:
Fungal Skin Infections
Ringworm (Tinea corporis):
- Description: Ringworm appears as red, scaly patches with raised borders on the skin. It can occur on any part of the body except for the scalp, groin, palms, and soles.
- Caused by: Fungi called dermatophytes.
- Transmission: Direct contact with an infected person or pet, or touching contaminated objects.
- Treatment: Topical antifungal creams, lotions, or powders are usually effective. Oral medications may be prescribed for severe cases.
Athlete’s Foot (Tinea pedis):
- Description: Athlete’s foot affects the feet, causing itching, burning, and cracked, peeling skin, typically between the toes or on the soles.
- Caused by: Fungi thriving in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms or swimming pools.
- Prevention: Keep feet clean and dry, wear clean socks and shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in public areas.
Jock Itch (Tinea cruris):
- Description: Jock itch affects the groin area, causing redness, itching, and sometimes a raised, scaly rash.
- Caused by: Fungi similar to those causing athlete’s foot.
- Prevention: Keep the groin area clean and dry, wear loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics, and avoid sharing personal items like towels or clothing.
Bacterial Skin Infections
Impetigo:
- Description: Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial infection characterized by red sores or blisters that rupture and form a honey-colored crust.
- Caused by: Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Transmission: Direct contact with an infected person or contaminated items.
- Treatment: Topical or oral antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. Keep the affected area clean and covered to prevent spreading.
Cellulitis:
- Description: Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, typically deeper than impetigo.
- Caused by: Bacteria entering the skin through cuts, scratches, or other breaks in the skin.
- Treatment: Oral antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. Keep the affected area clean and elevated.
General Tips for Prevention and Management:
- Teach children good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing.
- Keep the skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to fungal infections.
- Encourage children to avoid sharing personal items like towels, clothing, and sports equipment.
- Ensure children wear clean socks and shoes, especially in communal areas like locker rooms or swimming pools.
- If your child develops any unusual skin symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
SPONSORS
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