Preschool News
October 6, 2024
School Days
Hello Rodman Preschool Families,
As the Thanksgiving break approaches, we wish to extend our warmest thoughts to all of families at the Rodman Preschool. We are thankful for each and every student and the community we serve. May your homes be filled with laughter, love, and the joy of togetherness this Thanksgiving!
Friendly reminder that we have dress like a Storybook Character Day(s) on Monday for Rooms 25 & 30 and Tuesday for all other classrooms. Costumes are welcome! A few examples: Harry Potter, a Brown Bear (from Brown Bear, Brown Bear), a Caterpillar (from The Very Hungry Caterpillar), Pete the Cat, The Man with the Yellow Hat (from Curious George), etc. Have fun with it!
Sincerely,
Shelley Needle, MS, BCBA, LABA
Early Childhood Director
Pronouns: she, her, hers
Canton Public Schools
needles@cantonma.org781-821-5060 X 1505
Calendar Reminders
11/27/24: Early Release (Thanksgiving Break), 11:35 Dismissal
11/28 & 29, 2024: Thanksgiving Break
Book Highlight of the Week
Thanksgiving: Preparations
Thanksgiving can be a warm and joyous occasion, but for children and especially those with special needs, the sights, sounds, and disruption of routine that come with it may be overwhelming. Here are five tips to help support children during the Thanksgiving holiday:
1. **Prepare in Advance**: Talk about Thanksgiving ahead of time. Use stories, videos, or picture schedules to explain what will happen and who will be there. This preparation can help a child understand the upcoming events and reduce anxiety. If possible, involve them in the planning process, letting them choose a dish they like or a quiet activity they can do if things get too overwhelming.
2. **Create a Quiet Space**: Identify a quiet, comfortable space where the child can retreat if the festivities become too much. Make sure this area is equipped with some of their favorite calming activities or items, such as headphones, soft blankets, or familiar books. Letting them know they have a safe space to go to can be very reassuring.
3. **Maintain Routine**: Try to keep to the child's routine as much as possible. This might mean serving meals at the usual time or keeping bedtime consistent. The predictability of routine provides a sense of security.
4. **Use Visual and Sensory Tools**: Children with special needs often find visual schedules or timers helpful in understanding transitions and the sequence of activities. Sensory tools, such as noise-canceling headphones or sensory toys, can also help manage sensory overload during the hustle and bustle of the holiday.
5. **Educate Guests**: Brief family members and guests ahead of time about your child's needs and what they can do to help create an inclusive environment. This might include avoiding loud sudden noises, understanding if the child prefers not to be hugged, or simply being patient and flexible. Educating others helps to create a supportive network around the child.
Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one child may not work for another. It's important to tailor your approach based on what you know about your child's preferences, triggers, and coping mechanisms. With planning and understanding, Thanksgiving can be enjoyable for everyone involved.
Rodman CAPT
Thanks to all who participated in the restaurant fundraiser at Crisp and attended the various CAPT events this year! This was our last event for the fall, but the coat donation drive and spirit wear fundraiser are still going. Our next meeting will be January 16th where we'll discuss details about our upcoming winter/sprint events. Hope to see you there!
Snapshots of the Week
Absence/Tardy Reminder
To report your child absent, tardy, or leaving school early, please include the following three people in your email:
- Susan Crespi, Administrative Assistant, at crespis@cantonma.org
- Nurse Bailey at hewitb@cantonma.org and
- Your child’s classroom teacher
Please email by 9:15am and also include a reason for your child’s absence.
To reach Susan Crespi, please call 781-821-5060 X1503
98th Annual Thanksgiving Football game Canton vs. Stoughton - Community Event
This Thanksgiving will mark the 98th meeting of the Canton Bulldogs and the Stoughton Black Knights in this nearly century-old tradition. This year's game will be played at Canton High School's WWII Veterans' Memorial Field on Thursday, November 28th with a 10:00am kickoff.
Both teams have worked hard all year and are now ready to face off on the gridiron in front of their communities. It is more than a football game. It is truly a community event. Please consider joining us in supporting the Bulldogs as they face their long-time rival in what should be a memorable game.
https://chsbulldogsathletics.blogspot.com/2024/11/98th-annual-thanksgiving-football-game.html
Around Town Events!
Canton Public Schools has a Community Resources and Information Page on its website titled Around Town. This page lists resources and events taking place in our community. To access the information on this webpage, use this link: About/Around Town.