On Halloween, the first graders met their fourth grade meeting partners with great anticipation! The students gathered in a big circle and one at a time they introduced themselves and shared something that they liked or liked to do. After their introduction, they chose a block and added it to a structure being created in the center of the circle. When someone tried balancing a block atop another narrow block it was met with gasps and giggles of joy as all wondered if it would stay. Some blocks did and others did not! The students loved it either way!
Once the amazing community 'building' was complete, the students paired up and spent time getting better acquainted through books, Lego building, games, drawing and lots of calm, joyful conversation. The atmosphere was magical!
The next morning, first and fourth grades teamed up again and walked into Jenkintown to the Breathing Room Foundation. There, Volunteer Coordinator, Eileen Carissimi, explained many of the ways they provide support to families affected by cancer. The AFS students spent time writing colorful, heartfelt notes to families that they tucked inside carefully decorated cups filled with either tea bags or hot chocolate and Hershey Kisses. These will be included in holiday baskets that will be given to families to brighten their days and lessen their loads. It was so rewarding to see how the older students took the first graders under their wings and helped them with spelling and ideas for their notes and cups. Creativity and thoughtfulness were definitely the themes that were expressed in all the students' work. A lovely walk there and back with many first grade parents made this community project a rich treat for all!
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