Oldies but Goodies
Normally at LANK the spring is such a welcomed time! We enjoy watching the antics of our chicks while waiting patiently for our eggs to hatch in the incubator. We look ahead to Field Day, end of school five day celebrations, playground party, and a school wide puppet show or musical performance. It is always extremely busy, and we sometimes long for a chance to catch our breath. Spring 2020 is quite different, and the task at hand is how best to communicate with our families, and more specifically what to communicate.
Teachers have done an outstanding job of letting their classroom children know how much they are missed, while still providing a sense of wonder, joy and optimism! I’ve loved seeing their story videos, photos, and hearing about all their efforts. At this young age, the main goal of our efforts is to connect, and provide our children with some sense of normalcy. Kudos to Mrs. McConnell and Mrs. Barbaro as well. After watching Mrs. McConnell’s Marvelous Music, and Mrs. Barbaro’s Movement videos, as well as my own and Mrs. Marsh’s contributions I was struck by something; our choices all seem to include “oldies” that endure the test of time.
For my first video, I chose to retell the story of the Tortoise and the Hare. The first English printed version of the tale appeared in the 1600’s, which provides some context for the tale’s ability to endure. As my second choice, it made great sense to retell Goldilocks and the Three Bears written by Robert Southey in 1837, and still beloved today. Mrs. Marsh chose to read Make Way for Ducklings which was published in 1941.
Often as parents and educators, we search for material that is new, modern, and “the best of” that current year. While I am always interested in up to date material and innovation, it is interesting that some of the finest material to keep the attention of young children and provide guidance in all areas of development seem to be what we may term “oldies but goodies!” Goldilocks with its repeated text, friendly bears, and story moral is the perfect way for young children to experience literature. Add the concept of size and order, well there just isn’t a better story retell!
But, what I love most is the generational link that using well known classics provides. Even great grandma can share in the joy of recalling Goldilocks and the Three Bears, or Make Way For Ducklings. When Mrs. McConnell sings The Itsy Bitsy Spider or Mrs. Barbaro asks students to leave quietly after humming Rock A Bye Baby they are doing so with the knowledge that classics remain timeless for a reason. As you strive to make the coming days at home meaningful, please remember to revisit the books, songs and games of your own childhood. You will find in the words of Goldilocks, that “they are just right!”
Joan
