Did I mention that we have a class pet? No? Well, we do! Last fall, two of the friendliest little hamsters were gifted to first grade. One lives in Mrs. Vargas' room and the other lives in my classroom. Their names are Oloff and Kristoff. Sound familiar? That's because Mrs. Vargas and I have "Frozen Fever", too.
Kristoff is the hamster that resides in Room 28. He has the best spot in the room and can see just about everything going on. We have a lot of fun with Kristoff. Especially, when we earn the chance to have him roll around the room in his ball while we're working. He really likes to roll right under our desks!
The best part about having Kristoff, in my opinion, is that the first graders get to take him home on long weekends and winter, spring, and summer break. When school starts, I'll be sending home a permission slip for all families that are interested in hosting Kristoff for a weekend or a break. Last year, every family that wanted to bring Kristoff home, got to. Kristoff comes with an overnight bag, hamster themed books, student journal, food, treats, bedding, and a care sheet.
Having a classroom pet teaches so many valuable lessons. This year, just through Kristoff, the first graders will learn a lot about responsibility and empathy. The first graders will be responsible for feeding Kristoff and changing the bedding in his cage (with supervision, of course). The kids can also earn the opportunity to read to Kristoff and to work next to his cage if they would like.
The best part about having Kristoff, in my opinion, is that the first graders get to take him home on long weekends and winter, spring, and summer break. When school starts, I'll be sending home a permission slip for all families that are interested in hosting Kristoff for a weekend or a break. Last year, every family that wanted to bring Kristoff home, got to. Kristoff comes with an overnight bag, hamster themed books, student journal, food, treats, bedding, and a care sheet.
Having a classroom pet teaches so many valuable lessons. This year, just through Kristoff, the first graders will learn a lot about responsibility and empathy. The first graders will be responsible for feeding Kristoff and changing the bedding in his cage (with supervision, of course). The kids can also earn the opportunity to read to Kristoff and to work next to his cage if they would like.
I love having Kristoff in the classroom. He makes life more interesting. Having him is not only a learning experience for the students, but its also a learning experience for me.
So, start thinking about it. Would you and your family be interested in hosting our furry friend for a weekend or a long break? Be on the lookout for the permission slip that will be sent home within the first week or two of school. I'm looking forward to sharing this journey with the firsties this year!
So, start thinking about it. Would you and your family be interested in hosting our furry friend for a weekend or a long break? Be on the lookout for the permission slip that will be sent home within the first week or two of school. I'm looking forward to sharing this journey with the firsties this year!