Maggie is graduating to a new classroom!

We love Aaron & Maggie's school- The Goddard School in Lincoln Park. The kids have so much fun everyday and are learning so much. The teachers are amazing and the kids have done really well adjusting to their new schedule! (I have definitely had some trials going to full time in my job, so I have been extra thankful that the kids part of this transition has turned out so well!)

Maggie is in a class called First Steps, which is for kids ages 15-20 months. As an 18 month old who tries to keep up with an older brother, Maggie's skills have surpassed the things that they are working on in her classroom, so she will be transitioning into the Toddler class. Below if the letter and report of Maggie's progress, as well as a few pictures that Maggie's teachers, Miss Emily and Miss Grazyna, shared with us.

September 29, 2011

Dear Ann and Tim,

We are very proud to announce that Maggie will begin transitioning to the Panda Classroom beginning on October 17th, 2011. Her new teachers will be Ms. Amanda, Ms. Rebecca, and Ms. Sara

Maggie is a fun and smart girl. She has a great memory and will even sing songs to which she remembers the lyrics on her own. Maggie can count by herself almost up to ten and knows all over her friends’ and teachers’ names. She is very independent and likes to try to get her own toys during play times. When her friends are sad, Maggie shows empathy and comforts her friends as best as she can. She holds her interest in activities and is always a great participant! She can speak words clearly, use two word phrases, attempt new words, and name items while pointing. In art, she likes new tactile experiences and can mark with a crayon or paint brush. Her motor skills allow Maggie to climb, kneel, kick or roll a ball, and stoop to pick up objects. Socially, Maggie imitates adult actions, and likes to help her teachers. Maggie can also recognize animals, their sounds, and likes to explore nature. With these skills we feel that Maggie will be successful in the Panda classroom.

Maggie will continue her journey into the Panda classroom. When Maggie transitions into the Panda classroom, she will be introduced to many new concepts. She will begin to enjoy simple experiments and also be able to recognize plants and animals. She will develop imaginary play and attempt to ask why and where questions. Maggie will enjoy new tactile experiences and be able to mark in a circular motion with a crayon. These are just some of the great new experiences you will see Maggie introduced to in the Panda classroom.

Her new teachers are very excited to welcome Maggie into their classroom and to be a part of her growth and development here at The Goddard School. Talking to Maggie about her new classroom will make the transition go more smoothly. We are looking forward to watching Maggie develop in her new class. We know that she will be happy there! Maggie will begin transitioning on October 17th, 2011. She will visit for a short period of time each day and her visits will slowly get longer until we feel Maggie is ready to move up full-time. We will keep you informed on Maggie’s transition and let you know how well she is doing. We feel she will do just great in the Panda class.

Please feel free to stop by the office for any questions or concerns you may have.

Sincerely,
Gina Carlton
Educational Director