October 13th
Today an 'ofrenda' awaited the kids as we begin a little unit on the Dios Des Los Muertos. The Day of the Dead. I hope it is not cultural appropriation as I am a little vague about that, and only mean it is an honor to this tradition. I like to celebrate this mostly Mexican holiday in preschool because it gives us a venue to talk about our ancestors, talk about death and life in a very natural way. And in a happy way. Our culture doesn't seem to encourage that we talk about ancestors at all, must less show them honor and respect and keep their stories alive. During Dio Des Los Muertos, the spirits of ancestors are called back (attracted with the scent of the marigolds), a cause for celebration.
Also I love arts and crafts that go along with it. And I loved the q-tip project they did today!
Anyway, the ofrenda currently holds a picture of Kit, Joel's parents, and my father. You are welcome to bring in any photos or items that might represent a dead one- grandma's favorite recipe, Fido's ball, a special tea...
In other news, today we returned to 'old style' rest time: 4 year olds can enjoy two stories sitting in chairs and then slip out to do quiet alone activities while I stay for few songs with 3 year olds on mats. And wouldn't you know it, the now four-year-old Daniel requests a mat and has fallen asleep before the end of the stories! Having a birthday can be exhausting!
The week is off to a very fine start, and the muffins got two-thumbs up all around.
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