We are in a New York state of mind this week as we concentrate on all things Big Apple.  Though we spend most of our time in New York City, it can be easy to take the city and all it has to offer for granted.  This week we will use familiar objects and places from every day New York life (taxis, subways, skyscrapers, parks) to introduce new skills and concepts. This gives children the opportunity to make connections between school and home and provides them with a sense of hometown ownership and pride. 

Our burgeoning Warhols and Hoppers will get a chance to do some hands-on work this week when they create their very own New York City skyline, complete with painted skyscrapers and tin foil stars.  They will also use silver paint and number/letter stickers to turn a series of large boxes into a functional NYKC subway line.  

During rug time we will learn a new song about riding the train called "Bing Bong."  

Bing Bong, the doors open on the train.

(Start with hands together, then pull them apart: this will be the train door opening and closing)

Bing Bong, and all the people pile in.  

(Make fingers "people" and walk them forward)

Bing Bong, and the doors shut tight!

(Clap hands together)

And we're rollin' down the tracks,

(roll hands around each other)

We're rollin' down the tracks.

Bing Bong, Clickety Clickety Clack.  

(Close and open "train doors," then roll hands)

Bing Bong, Clickety Clickety Clack.

Bing Bong, Clickety Clickety Clack.

And we're rollin' down the tracks,

Rollin' down the tracks.

Bing Bong, now here's our stop!

(Close and open train doors then show stop hands!)

Bing Bong, and all the doors open up.

Bing Bong, Say "Bye Bye Train".

(Wave "bye to train")

As it's rollin' down the tracks,

Rollin' down the tracks.

Students will get to ride in the train they created while singing this interactive song.  Ask your child to help teach you the hand movements that go along with it. Feel free to practice the next time you are on the train as it is sure to make the quintessential New York experience a little faster, and certainly a lot more fun.

Sincerely,

 

Gair Morris

 

Director