I've had a few parents ask me about recess time and center time in first grade.  In first grade and the other upper grades, we only get one recess which is their lunch recess.  We are very lucky because our lunch and recess times really help break up our day.  We do lots of hands on learning in first grade, but we do not do center time like kindergarten.  We use our subject times for moving and we take lots of brain breaks. We also have our special time in the afternoon that helps with the amount of learning we do in first grade. :)  I understand the concern that some may be having with not enough "running or moving around" time, but in  first grade the expectations and the amount that a first grader does is very high.  If time is allowed, we always try to give a extra recess, but I am always amazed at how well most of my students adjust to the switch from kindergarten to first grade.  The kiddos love learning new things so as teachers we work very hard to make sure your kiddo gets the movement they need. :) 

I wanted to touch base with my parents about my expectations for your kiddos during library time.  I am hoping that since your kiddo has had kindergarten for a full year that they know to choose a good-fit book.  I want them to be reading their library book to you.  So I have asked them NOT to be checking out Junie B. Jones or similar books right now as we are working on our fluenc

We are working hard at building our stamina during read to self time.  We have been talking about naming the characters and the setting or where the story takes place.  We have been able to read for 16 minutes!  Ask your kiddo about the characters and setting when they are reading to you!