Pre-K Winter Olympics

In the spirit of the Winter Olympics, Pre-K students got together to celebrate all we have learned this winter to provide students with an exciting blend of physical challenges and academic learning. Just as Olympic athletes compete in diverse events that require skill, strategy, and determination, these activities encourage students to build teamwork, sharpen their problem-solving abilities, and apply important academic concepts in a fun, interactive way. Whether simulating animal behaviors or practicing math, these activities mirrored the exciting and competitive nature of the Winter Olympics while reinforcing our winter academic themes. 

On Monday we began with the “Hibernation” relay race! In this activity, students were given the task of running back and forth between designated “caves,” delivering “food” to prepare for their winter hibernation. The objective was for each team to successfully stock their cave with as much food as possible. The team that first filled their cave was declared the winner.

On Tuesday students enjoyed a variation of the classic game, “Red light, Green light”. In this version, students were challenged to simulate the migratory journey of birds flying to a warmer climate. They were instructed to navigate an imaginary equator marked by a jump rope while facing challenging weather conditions, represented by PK teachers waving scarves as stormy winds. The goal was for each student to reach a safe landing place on the opposite side while playing this game we all know and love. 

On Wednesday we gathered to participate in a friendly competition where they took turns throwing “snowballs” (paper balls) at a floor target marked with lines, each representing different point values: 1, 2, or 3 points, with the furthest square worth 10 points. Each student was given two attempts to score as many points as possible. After each throw, students recorded their score on an abacus, summing the points from both attempts. This activity provided an opportunity to practice counting, number recognition, and basic addition in a hands-on, engaging environment.

Thursday morning students were met with the challenge to put on thick winter mittens, simulating the blubber of a polar bear, and were tasked with drawing a simple picture of a bear within a time limit. Then they removed their mittens and tried again! Finding that it was much easier the second time. The goal was to observe how blubber affects a bear's ability to perform everyday tasks and compare it to their abilities. Students were encouraged to complete their drawings to the best of their ability, fostering creativity while highlighting the impact of cold weather adaptations on animals.

On Friday the classes gathered for one last time for the week to celebrate all that they had accomplished. Each student is presented with a ribbon they painted and personalized.

Through these winter-themed activities students strengthened their teamwork and problem-solving abilities, developed a deeper understanding of animal behaviors and environmental adaptations. They also practiced key math skills such as counting, addition, and number recognition. The hands-on experiences also helped improve fine motor skills, creativity, and focus. These activities helped students grow not only in their knowledge but also in their ability to work together and apply their learning in practical ways, all while having fun!