What Did You Do in School Today?

At the end of every school day, sometimes around dinnertime, children are often asked, “How was your day?” or “What Did You Do in School Today?”

Have you tried asking your child that this year? The answers may vary, depending on age, gender, or personality of the child.

A grade 2 might say – “We went to library today and I got a book!” or “At recess today I played soccer and scored a goal!

A grade 4 might say – “I had a fun day.” or “In math we started multiplying.

A grade 7 might say – “Nothing.

No matter what they answer, please don’t stop asking. Connecting to children about their school day (or any day) is very important.

Add to you repertoire of questions (beyond the “How was your day?” or “What Did You Do in School Today?”).

    “Tell me about something new you learned today.”
    “Who did you play with at recess and what did you play?”
    “What happened at school today that made you smile? Tell me about it.”
    “Did you see anyone do something nice for someone else? Describe for me what he/she did.”
    “If you had to write a story about your day, what would you choose to write about?”

A friendly hint about the last one: if you want it written down, you write it (scribe it) as they tell the story. If students have to write all their stories, they often resort to the simplest story they can tell: “Nothing.”

Communicate early with your children about school, and ask a variety of questions. Keep asking, and keep sharing. Encourage story telling, and avoid (when possible) yes or no questions.

Stories come in all shapes and sizes. Be curious about your child’s day, and they will be open and share what goes on in their world.

Share your stories.

Take care

Our Welcome Back Social

Last night we had a Welcome Back social event at school. It was a big success. Ice cream was served, children played in bouncy castles, and many volunteers joined together to get the new school year off to a great start.

Children and adults alike brought their own bowls and spoons to create super sundaes, and chai tea was available to adults in the inner courtyard. Some families forgot to bring their spoons, and solutions were found. Ben and Leanne had to eat ice cream with a fork, but they did not seem to mind.

Many thanks to the parent volunteers who helped get the school ready for the night. The courtyard looked great, the Jump for Joy play area for kids was excellent, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting.

It was wonderful to meet so many families last night, and see our students spending time with their mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends.

Cleveland Parent Advisory Council members volunteer many hours of their time to help students and staff make Cleveland a wonderful place for all children. For Cleveland parents, please remember you too are members of the Cleveland Parent Advisory Council (CPAC). The CPAC is always in need of more parent participation, and there are many opportunities for parents to give as little (or as much) time as the can. Many hands make light work.

On behalf of all students – Thank you.

On behalf of the staff of the school – Thank you.

Take care.