WELCOME AND GOOD-BYE

Isn’t it nice to be missed? If a child has been absent, they will feel special when they return to school and you sing this song to the tune of “The Bear Went over the Mountain.”

     Welcome back child’s name.
     Welcome back child’s name.
     Welcome back child’s name.
     We’re glad you’re here today.

Good-Bye Book
I mentioned this book several years ago when K.J. and Kalina left on a long trip and wouldn’t be returning to school. Kalina’s teacher asked each child to draw a picture for her and then they made it into a book. She treasured that book!  K.J.’s teacher did nothing. It's one of those little things that could mean so much to a child.  

Moving away or going to a new school is painful for children. We’ve all felt that sense of loss when we have moved or said good-bye to friends. This book would give children a meaningful way to let their friend know they will be missed. And it would be something the parting child could hold onto and visit when they leave.

  

*Hint! A class photo would make a great cover.

Welcome to a New Friend

I just remembered this idea that we did when a new child joined our class.  We'd sit in a circle and I'd put a block in the middle.  We'd go around the circle and one child at a time would stand and jump over the block as we sang this song to "Jack Be Nimble."

     (Child's name) be nimble.

     (Child's name) be quick.

     (Child's name) jump over the candlestick.

It was just a silly routine, but the kids enjoyed welcoming a new classmate with it.