First 100 days of school super fun at Pinnacle College Linden
The schools Grade 1 class recently celebrated this milestone that has seen them learn new concepts through engaging activities.
Nothing quite competes with the wonder a child has about the world. Take the past 100 days of school for example, during them, the Grade 1’s of Pinnacle College Linden had the grand opportunity to learn something new everyday.
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Head of Foundation, Celeste Els, said the first 100 days of a child’s schooling can be made memorable by the creation of a welcoming and nurturing environment that encourages excitement for learning. “Having engaging activities that blend play with education, supportive teachers who provide individual attention, and opportunities for social interaction help children feel comfortable and valued.” She added regular communication with parents, and the celebration of small achievements, among other aspects, create a positive foundation for their future educational journey.
The transition from Grade R to Grade 1 comes with its own specific challenges, “including adjusting to a more structured learning environment and routine, which demands greater academic independence and a faster pace of learning,” said teacher and Grade 1 leader, Bianca Lawrence. She explained the children start to take care of their own belongings, such as managing their school supplies and personal items, which encourages a sense of responsibility.
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So far, the little ones are said to be actively engaged in various learning activities, both formal and informal, which has helped develop their fine motor skills and familiarity with writing. “Reading sessions have introduced them to literature and the foundational skills needed for comprehension,” said Lawrence. They have been blending and segmenting sounds to read simple words, which then progressed to reading simple sentences, enhancing their phonemic awareness. In mathematics, they have been working with numbers, learning to count and recognizing numerical patterns. “The Grade 1’s have been inquiring about new topics, developing their curiosity and critical thinking. Additionally, they’ve been adapting to new routines, which helps in building a structured approach to their daily activities,” said Lawrence.
It is important for children to look forward to going to school, because it creates a positive association with learning and sets the foundation for their academic journey, according to Else. “When children are enthusiastic about attending school, they are more likely to engage actively in their learning and participate inside and outside of the classroom, which enhances their overall learning experience.” Adding a school environment that feels like a calm, safe space allows children to grow, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally. This holistic development is crucial for building confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
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