Unit 1: Family, Friends, and More

Help children learn the names of others in their group and recognize their own names in print.

Introduce the alphabet to children through visual aids and discussion.

Place letter cards around the room and send children on a letter hunt.

Read a lively and rhythmic book about the alphabet.

Have children explore the idea of fitting objects in a limited space.

Help children identify the letters in their name.

Send a Family Connection letter home with children.

Help children learn other children’s names and recognize their own names in print.

Review the alphabet and talk about the order of the letters.

Sing a song to reinforce knowledge of the letters and their order.

Explore and talk about places where children might find letters outside.

Watch a video to introduce uppercase and lowercase letters.

Read a book about the alphabet, paying attention to repeating words.

Read a poem to reinforce ideas about repeating words and the alphabet.

Recite a poem that includes the names of each child.

Sing a song to help children recognize and learn names of other childen in their group.

Introduce the library by encouraging children to share their experiences at the library.

Watch a video about the different types of books children can find at the library.

Sing a song about different types of books and have children hunt for books in the Library Center.

Read a book about a girl who loves going to the library.

Sing a song and act out the motions with children.

Take a field trip to a local library, allowing children to explore.

Watch a video to introduce concept and nonfiction books that carry factual information.

Sing a song to demonstrate how to hold books and have children join in.

Discuss how to care for books.

Help children become familiar with names of others in the group through song.  

Talk about scientists and make connections to how children use some of the same skills as scientists. 

Guide children as they explore and observe outdoors using skills like a scientist.

Read about skills a scientist uses that children also use as they observe and explore. 

Have children draw to record an observation they made outside.

Talk about the different books and items you can find at the library.

Read a book to introduce borrowing and returning library books.

Watch a video about the alphabet and the library.

Have children take a trip to the pretend library.

Help children learn other children’s names and recognize their own names in print.

Review what the children learned about the alphabet and the library.

Help children sort big (uppercase) and little (lowercase) letters. 

Play a game matching letters of the alphabet.

Choose a favorite book and read to the children.

Sing a song about reading a book.

Discuss and write about children’s favorite books and reasons they like to read.

Review what children have learned about the alphabet, the library, and exploring.

Send drawings and photographs home with children and encourage them to discuss them with family members.