Internet Safety
Free internet safety webinar for Parents. Use the link below to Choose your date and time and book your place for free through Zoom. Once you book your place, Barnardos Online Safety team will email you a link to the webinar. Each Webinar lasts 45 minutes.
https://www.barnardos.ie/learning-development/training/online-safety-programme/for-parents
The courses aim is that parents leave these webinars feeling empowered; they will have an awareness of the risks online for children and practical tips that will help them keep their children safe and resilient online.
https://www.barnardos.ie/learning-development/training/online-safety-programme/for-parents
The courses aim is that parents leave these webinars feeling empowered; they will have an awareness of the risks online for children and practical tips that will help them keep their children safe and resilient online.
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Maintain and Improve Wellbeing
The Five Ways to Wellbeing are simple actions to practice each day to maintain or improve our mental health and wellbeing. Click on the link below
https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/five-ways-to-wellbeing/
https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/five-ways-to-wellbeing/
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September Maths Challenge
Dear Parents,
Here is a fun Maths challenge which you can try at home with your child.
Guess the height of the sunflower :)
All correct entries ( or very close) will be entered in a prize draw.
Enter below and the very best of luck .
Here is a fun Maths challenge which you can try at home with your child.
Guess the height of the sunflower :)
All correct entries ( or very close) will be entered in a prize draw.
Enter below and the very best of luck .
One of our wonderful first class boys is giving you a little help with his meter stick :)
Thank you to everyone for entering , Entries are now closed:
Height was 2.44meters
Winning entry Stefan Sramko with 2.43 meters
Well done :)
Height was 2.44meters
Winning entry Stefan Sramko with 2.43 meters
Well done :)
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Tips on Getting Back into a good routine for return to school
Bedtimes will be the first on my list. It won’t be easy as it is still bright at 9pm, but It needs to be done. Start by adjusting bedtimes gradually. Two weeks before the first day of school, start to move your child’s bedtime earlier at night. Wake them a small bit earlier each morning. Continue this process every night until your child is waking at the same time that will be necessary once school starts.
Aim to create a relaxing wind-down routine. For about an hour before you want the lights turned off for the night encourage calming activities. For younger children this might be taking a bath or reading a book together. For older children this could be listening to music, taking a shower or meditation. By repeating this every night in the weeks leading up to the first day of school it will help your child to anticipate sleep time, making it easier for everyone once school starts again.
Next up, screen time. We know that less screen time before bed will improve the quality of their sleep. Yes, they love playing with their friends on line and who doesn’t enjoy a game of Mario Cart? They can still do this, but - earlier in the day. Aim for no screen time an hour before your child goes to sleep. Avoid screens in their bedroom. Watch those smart phones too. Agreeing a plan in advance on technology will prevent problems and fighting in the long run
Last but not least mealtimes. Plan to adjust mealtimes gradually in August to match up with school lunch breaks. Chat about the importance of eating well. Encourage your child to think of food as fuel for their body. Involve them in decisions about what they eat, the weekly shop, meal planning and preparation.
Tips for Junior Infants.
1.. BEFORE YOUR CHILD STARTS
It would help greatly if your child is able to:
Social skills are very important. Our goal is to foster the development of good interpersonal and mixing skills. We place a high value on good manners and expect all children to be able to know when to use "Please", "Thank you", "Excuse me", "I'm sorry", "Hello", "Good morning", "Goodbye" etcetera.
2.. GETTING READY FOR LEARNING
Oral Language Development
It is important that a child’s ability to talk is as advanced as possible.
It is through speech that children communicate their thoughts and
feelings, needs and desires, curiosity and wonder.
You Can Help …
3.. FIRST SPEPS IN READING
Reading Ability to read is the foundation for all future learning. However, learning to read is a gradual process and much preparatory work must be completed before a child is introduced to a first reader. We very deliberately do not rush or push children into reading. We get them ready for it over an extended period. Reading is meant to be enjoyable. It should never start as a chore for the small child.
How can you help?
4.. UNDERSTANDING MATHS
First, a Word of Warning:
Maths for the small child has nothing to do with “sums”, figures, tables or adding and subtracting. These will all come much later. Maths is really part of the language a child uses in understanding and talking about certain things in his/her daily experience e.g.
5.. GETTING READY FOR WRITING
Making letters on paper is not easy for small children. They must learn to hold the pencil properly and make regular shapes. Their hand and finger muscles are only gradually developing at this stage. They must develop the ability to get hand and eye working together (hand-eye coordination). This is very important.
You Can Help …
Encourage your child to manipulate toys like:
When your child begins to use a pencil make sure that he/she holds it correctly from the beginning. It is difficult to change bad habits. Special pencils are available for early users. Pencils are provided in school for school use. Children may be making block capital letters at home even before coming to school. This is fine. But when they start making lower case letters at school, please try to encourage them to discontinue the use of capitals and practise the new system. Children who begin to show left hand dominance should be allowed to hold the crayon / pencil in the left hand.
It would help greatly if your child is able to:
- Button and unbutton a coat and hang it up.
- Use the toilet without help and manage pants and buttons.
- Know how to flush the toilet and wash hands, without having to be told.
- Use a tissue when necessary.
- Share toys and playthings with others and ‘take turns’.
- Tidy up and put away playthings.
- Remain contentedly for a few hours in the home of a relation, friend or neighbour. If children have had this experience, then separation from parents when they start school will not cause any great anxiety.
- Manage their own shoes. Velcro is the best option for this.
- Open and close his/her own lunchbox.
- Undress and change themselves in the unlikely event of a toileting accident.
Social skills are very important. Our goal is to foster the development of good interpersonal and mixing skills. We place a high value on good manners and expect all children to be able to know when to use "Please", "Thank you", "Excuse me", "I'm sorry", "Hello", "Good morning", "Goodbye" etcetera.
2.. GETTING READY FOR LEARNING
Oral Language Development
It is important that a child’s ability to talk is as advanced as possible.
It is through speech that children communicate their thoughts and
feelings, needs and desires, curiosity and wonder.
You Can Help …
- Talk to your child naturally and casually about things of interest that you may be doing at home, in the shop, in the car, etc. Remember that all the time children are absorbing the language they hear around them. It takes them a while to make it their own and use it to express their needs.
- Try to make time to listen when your child wants to tell you something that is important to him/her.
- Introduce a child gently to Why? How? When? Where? If? etc. Asking questions demands more advanced language structures.
3.. FIRST SPEPS IN READING
Reading Ability to read is the foundation for all future learning. However, learning to read is a gradual process and much preparatory work must be completed before a child is introduced to a first reader. We very deliberately do not rush or push children into reading. We get them ready for it over an extended period. Reading is meant to be enjoyable. It should never start as a chore for the small child.
How can you help?
- Have attractive colourful books in the home.
- Join BallymunLibrary, we are very lucky to have such an excellent library in our locality.
- Read a variety of stories from time to time. Children will begin to associate these wonderful tales with books and reading.
- Children have their own particular favourite stories that they never tire of hearing. Repeat them over and over again and gradually get your child to tell you the story.
- You must gradually convey that books are precious things. They should be minded, handled carefully and put away safely.
- Look at the pictures and talk about what they say.
- Read nursery rhymes.
- Sing the alphabet song with your child, so that he/ she has at least heard of the letters. If he /she knows what each one looks like, all the better.
- Focus on your child's progress, not other children's progress. Don't compare.
- Above all, don’t push with early reading. You may turn your child against it for evermore.
4.. UNDERSTANDING MATHS
First, a Word of Warning:
Maths for the small child has nothing to do with “sums”, figures, tables or adding and subtracting. These will all come much later. Maths is really part of the language a child uses in understanding and talking about certain things in his/her daily experience e.g.
- Colours – black, white, red, green, etc.
- Prepositions (telling position), over/under, before/after, inside/outside etc.
- Matching/Sorting–objects of the same size/colour/texture/shape etc.
- Patterns
- Odd One Out – difference in size/colour etc.
- In the course of your ordinary daily routine in the home, in the shop, in the neighbourhood you could try to use suitable opportunities to casually introduce the maths vocabulary referred to above, e.g. How many cakes? The glass is full/empty. We turn left at the lights, etc.
- Children associate certain numbers with particular things – two hands, four wheels, five fingers etc.
- Counting – one, two, three, four, etc.
- Setting the table
- Drawing attention to shapes in the home and the environment.
- The child’s understanding of Maths is best developed by handling, investigating and using real objects. This has been his/her natural method of learning since babyhood.
5.. GETTING READY FOR WRITING
Making letters on paper is not easy for small children. They must learn to hold the pencil properly and make regular shapes. Their hand and finger muscles are only gradually developing at this stage. They must develop the ability to get hand and eye working together (hand-eye coordination). This is very important.
You Can Help …
Encourage your child to manipulate toys like:
- Jigsaws, Lego, beads to thread etc.
- Plasticine (Marla) to make his/her own shapes.
- A colouring book and thick crayons. (In school, we use chubby crayons for most of the first year)
- Sheets of paper that he/she can cut up with a safe scissors.
When your child begins to use a pencil make sure that he/she holds it correctly from the beginning. It is difficult to change bad habits. Special pencils are available for early users. Pencils are provided in school for school use. Children may be making block capital letters at home even before coming to school. This is fine. But when they start making lower case letters at school, please try to encourage them to discontinue the use of capitals and practise the new system. Children who begin to show left hand dominance should be allowed to hold the crayon / pencil in the left hand.
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SeeSaw for Parents
Drumcondra Educational Centre are running a free webinar on Seesaw for parents on 15th February at 7pm FOR FURTHER DETAILS CLICK HERE
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John Sherry free talks
Below, I also have some links to library talks on preserving family relationships and homeschooling during the pandemic , these sessions are hosted by John Sherry a leading child psychologist
Upcoming Library Talks
‘Managing "home schooling" during the Covid-19 pandemic’
Thursday 4th Feb 7:30pm supported by Galway Libraries
With lockdown and restrictions, parents are under more stress than ever during the pandemic. In this talk, I will provide practical ideas on how to balance the demands of ‘home schooling’ primary school children while trying to work, and keep the whole family going during this challenging time.
Please note that this is being hosted by Galway Libraries, so enquiries and booking information are available here only.
‘Looking after your family’s mental health during the Covid-19 crisis’
Tuesday 9th Feb 2021 7pm Online talk supported by Kildare Library
The continuing Covid-19 crisis has disrupted family life and brought serious challenges for children and parents. During this talk, I will provide some practical principles on how you can look after your family’s own mental health and to cultivate your resilience and deal with challenges such as home working and schooling. This will be an interactive workshop with time for Q&A.
Please note that this is being hosted by Kildare Libraries, so enquiries and bookings are available here only.
Upcoming Library Talks
‘Managing "home schooling" during the Covid-19 pandemic’
Thursday 4th Feb 7:30pm supported by Galway Libraries
With lockdown and restrictions, parents are under more stress than ever during the pandemic. In this talk, I will provide practical ideas on how to balance the demands of ‘home schooling’ primary school children while trying to work, and keep the whole family going during this challenging time.
Please note that this is being hosted by Galway Libraries, so enquiries and booking information are available here only.
‘Looking after your family’s mental health during the Covid-19 crisis’
Tuesday 9th Feb 2021 7pm Online talk supported by Kildare Library
The continuing Covid-19 crisis has disrupted family life and brought serious challenges for children and parents. During this talk, I will provide some practical principles on how you can look after your family’s own mental health and to cultivate your resilience and deal with challenges such as home working and schooling. This will be an interactive workshop with time for Q&A.
Please note that this is being hosted by Kildare Libraries, so enquiries and bookings are available here only.
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Getting Unlimited Data
To get unlimited data on your mobile phone so you can use it to continue your education using the internet, please follow these steps:
That is all you need to do. If the Customer Service person says they have not heard of this then ask them to double-check with their manager. If they refuse to change you to an unlimited data plan (at no extra cost to you) then you can contact a government organisation called CommReg to complain and get further support. The phone number for CommReg is 01 804 9668. If you are still having issues then you can call AONTAS on 1800 303669 to report these issues.
- Step 1: Top up your phone credit (if you are on a pay-as-you-go plan); you do not need to be on a bill pay plan to change to an unlimited data plan. Whatever your current plan is, it does not matter. This unlimited data should not cost you any extra money on top of what you would normally pay.
- Step 2: Go to the website of your mobile provider (Vodafone, Three, Tesco Mobile and so on) and contact their Customer Service. You can use ‘web Chat’ on the website to talk to them or you can ring them if you prefer. Their Customer Service phone number will be shown somewhere on their website.
- Step 3: When you get through to a Customer Service representative tell them that you want to change your current plan to a plan with unlimited data because you need the unlimited data to continue your education course online.
That is all you need to do. If the Customer Service person says they have not heard of this then ask them to double-check with their manager. If they refuse to change you to an unlimited data plan (at no extra cost to you) then you can contact a government organisation called CommReg to complain and get further support. The phone number for CommReg is 01 804 9668. If you are still having issues then you can call AONTAS on 1800 303669 to report these issues.
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Support for Parents - useful links
Dear Parents, I have created links to a range of resources which you may find helpful.
The Department of Education National Educational Psychology Service (NEPS) have many resources that you may find useful while the school is closed. These resources can be found on the Department website here
Plan for a Day
A plan for the day template is available here to help you and your child put a structure on the day. It suggests trying to have a schedule, creating time for fun activities, time for learning, break times and time for physical activity.
Advice for Young People
NEPS has published Advice for Young People while Schools are Closed which is available here
Relaxation Techniques Podcast
This link will take you to a podcast from NEPS to help parents and pupils practice relaxation techniques.
Advice for Parents NEPS has also published A Guide for Parents on Supporting Children and Young People with Daily Routines while Schools are Closed which is available here
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Junior Infants Bedtime Story Club
Check ourDear Parents/Guardians,
Hi everyone, I hope you are all keeping safe and well.
With your help and support we intend to run a Covid 19 friendly version of our Bedtime Story Club starting Monday 23rdth November.
How will it operate?
Every week the class teacher and a support teacher will read a book to a small group of children.
After three weeks every child will receive a book that they can keep at home to continue reading.
What do I, as a parent, need to do?
- Story time is simply you spending some quality time reading a book to your child.
- Reading can take place at any time of the evening. Children LOVE being read to!!!
- Watch two of our teachers reading stories at https://www.olvinfants.com/literacy-support.html
- We would love to see some photos of you reading the books at home. This can be sent to your class SeeSaw app.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me on 0874152165
Kindest Regards, Claire (HSCL)
Would you like to access more books? See information below
Although Ballymun Library is closed to the public at the moment, books can be downloaded from our online service ‘Borrowbox’ (Details here: https://www.dublincity.ie/residential/libraries/using-your-library/digital-library#borro
A
Incredible Years Parent Workshops
I'm delighted to be able to offer this series of short parent workshops presented by Young Ballymun. They are always very informative and enjoyable workshops.
Places are very limited so please sign up ASAP with Liz 087 634 7001 or Cathy 0876173667.
Places are very limited so please sign up ASAP with Liz 087 634 7001 or Cathy 0876173667.
Supports available for parents
National Parents’ Council: The National Parents’ Council are running free online ‘Transitions from pre-school to primary school’ information sessions for parents from 9th November.
How: To register use the link below and choose a date and time that suits. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NPC_Transition_from_preschool_to_primary_school
Barnardos Online Safety Webinar for Parents: Barnardos are hosting a free webinar for parents on online safety which will be run a number of times over the coming weeks. This 45-minute session will give parents practical tips that will help them keep their children safe & resilient online. The following webinar will be held on the following dates: Wed 4th Nov @ 1pm, Tues 10th Nov @ 7pm, Tues 24th Nov @7pm, Wed 2nd Dec @1pm and Tues 8th Dec @7.30pm. Click link for registration details: CLICK HERE
Jigsaw Webinars: Jigsaw are running a series of Webinars for parents. The first was on supporting young people struggling with mental health at school and there is a recording available. The next is on Monday November 9th and is entitled Self-Care in the Winter Months. Jigsaw have a number of centres around the country, but anyone can register for the webinars. Click here for link: https://jigsaw.ie/webinars-for-parents-supporting-young-people/
· Mind Yourself – the Mental Health and Wellbeing Reading Guide: The Covid-19 pandemic is a considerable source of worry for children and families, and young people are having to cope with big changes at home and at school. In response, Children’s Books Ireland, in partnership with Jigsaw and ISPCC Childline, has created Mind Yourself – the Mental Health and Wellbeing Reading Guide. The Mind Yourself reading guide is a resource that can be used by adults – parents, guardians, caregivers, teachers – to support and educate young people in relation to mental health and wellbeing. The guide contains reviews and recommendations of over 400 books for children and young people from birth to age eighteen and is designed as a ‘first-aid kit’ for worries, sadness, loneliness, anxiety and any number of feelings that a young person may want to explore. Mind Yourself also contains mental health and wellbeing information from Jigsaw and ISPCC Childline, including tips and coping strategies for young people and advice for adults on supporting children to build resilience. The guide is available free of charge through every library authority in the Republic of Ireland and a digital version of the Mind Yourself Reading Guide can be viewed or downloaded here. Should you wish to purchase a copy of #MindYourself please click here!
How: To register use the link below and choose a date and time that suits. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NPC_Transition_from_preschool_to_primary_school
Barnardos Online Safety Webinar for Parents: Barnardos are hosting a free webinar for parents on online safety which will be run a number of times over the coming weeks. This 45-minute session will give parents practical tips that will help them keep their children safe & resilient online. The following webinar will be held on the following dates: Wed 4th Nov @ 1pm, Tues 10th Nov @ 7pm, Tues 24th Nov @7pm, Wed 2nd Dec @1pm and Tues 8th Dec @7.30pm. Click link for registration details: CLICK HERE
Jigsaw Webinars: Jigsaw are running a series of Webinars for parents. The first was on supporting young people struggling with mental health at school and there is a recording available. The next is on Monday November 9th and is entitled Self-Care in the Winter Months. Jigsaw have a number of centres around the country, but anyone can register for the webinars. Click here for link: https://jigsaw.ie/webinars-for-parents-supporting-young-people/
· Mind Yourself – the Mental Health and Wellbeing Reading Guide: The Covid-19 pandemic is a considerable source of worry for children and families, and young people are having to cope with big changes at home and at school. In response, Children’s Books Ireland, in partnership with Jigsaw and ISPCC Childline, has created Mind Yourself – the Mental Health and Wellbeing Reading Guide. The Mind Yourself reading guide is a resource that can be used by adults – parents, guardians, caregivers, teachers – to support and educate young people in relation to mental health and wellbeing. The guide contains reviews and recommendations of over 400 books for children and young people from birth to age eighteen and is designed as a ‘first-aid kit’ for worries, sadness, loneliness, anxiety and any number of feelings that a young person may want to explore. Mind Yourself also contains mental health and wellbeing information from Jigsaw and ISPCC Childline, including tips and coping strategies for young people and advice for adults on supporting children to build resilience. The guide is available free of charge through every library authority in the Republic of Ireland and a digital version of the Mind Yourself Reading Guide can be viewed or downloaded here. Should you wish to purchase a copy of #MindYourself please click here!
Uploading photo to SeeSaw
Please see a simple photo guide below
Maths Eyes Competition 2020
You can send 1 entry to your teacher on Seesaw.
Remember all entries must be submitted by Friday 16th of October!
Winners will be picked from each classroom. The winning entries will also be framed and presented to the winners!
Below are some examples of Maths Eyes
Best of luck!
Ms. Thomas
- Using your ‘Maths Eyes’ take a photograph in your local area or at home.
- Add an accompanying tagline which highlights the mathematics that you have seen in the photo you have taken.
You can send 1 entry to your teacher on Seesaw.
Remember all entries must be submitted by Friday 16th of October!
Winners will be picked from each classroom. The winning entries will also be framed and presented to the winners!
Below are some examples of Maths Eyes
Best of luck!
Ms. Thomas
Summer Maths Challenge
Congratulations to all those who entered our Summer Maths Challenge. The children produced some wonderful work and I was delighted to receive all you creations. Here are a list of the winning entries and I have ordered a special book which will be delivered to their doors in the coming weeks.
- Ionela Calmic Room 15
- Martyna Puchow Room 17
- Lukas Soican Room 15
- Zuzanna Bartnicka room 4
- Elizabete Makarova Room 2
Lace Making with our Creative school Coordinator
HI all
I'm sharing a video Fiona Harrington made for Creative Schools TV showing children how to make paper lace. Many of the children meet Fiona Harrington when she was in our school doing creativity workshops. Maybe this is something you could try over the summer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jfNWoL59V4&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR2wad_W-o1XKvvtz_kgj5e6qZdHLOrSMsILRrfGPiSNCWEO4YGDmxXpb_Q
I'm sharing a video Fiona Harrington made for Creative Schools TV showing children how to make paper lace. Many of the children meet Fiona Harrington when she was in our school doing creativity workshops. Maybe this is something you could try over the summer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jfNWoL59V4&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR2wad_W-o1XKvvtz_kgj5e6qZdHLOrSMsILRrfGPiSNCWEO4YGDmxXpb_Q
Summer Maths Challenge
This maths and crafts activity will help children become more familiar with shapes and symmetry.
What you will need:
INSTRUCTIONS
Best of luck everyone!
What you will need:
- Coloured Paper / paper and colouring pencils
- Ruler
- pencil
- Scissors
- Colours
- Glue stick
INSTRUCTIONS
- Draw several squares of different sizes on paper and then cut them out and colour them in. Compare the different sizes and colours. (bigger, smaller, blue, green, longer/shorter sides)
- Discuss the properties of a square.
- How many sides?
- How many corners?
- What do you notice about the lengths of the sides?
- (4 equal sides, 4 corners, 4 right angles)
- you could discuss the lines of symmetry on a square – a shape has symmetry if a central dividing line can be drawn on it, that shows that both sides of the shape are the same.
- Get the child to fold the shape along the different lines of symmetry so that they can be clear that the two sides are identical.
- Cut some/all the squares, along their lines of symmetry to form smaller triangles and rectangles
- Ask your child to arrange the shapes to create a piece of art.
- Count the number of different shapes used.
I used:______ triangles______ squares______ rectangles etc
Send your picture to [email protected] or to 0874152165 along with your child's name and room number and I will be delighted to pick a winner from each stream to receive a prize in the post.
Best of luck everyone!
Maths Around the House
Home School Liaison Activities
In OLV encourage and facilitate parents to get involved in our school community in fun and creative ways including Easter hunts, coffee mornings and sun flower planting. We also endeavour to get parent's involved in their children's learning with Maths for fun, attendance promotion activities and Story reading session. We are always delighted to support the parents in whatever way we can and encourage parents to get involved in our school community as much as possible.
Creative Ideas at Home
Creativity at Home
Bring the outdoors indoors
Collect some natural materials from your garden, such as twigs, leaves, grass. If you don’t have a garden collect some natural materials if you go out on a walk.
Make a picture or a collage using the materials you have collected.
You can use food colouring for the background if you don’t have paint and if you don’t have either, you can tear up old magazines, coloured paper or coloured plastics into small pieces and stick them onto a page. If you don’t have glue, simply place them on the page and photograph.
Collect and Create
Collect a variety of different coloured papers/cards/palstics. You might find some interesting things in the recycling or maybe the packaging of food that is no longer needed. Use a scissors to cut the materials into smaller sized pieces or if you don’t have a scissors you can tear the pieces into smaller pieces. Create a collage or a picture by sticking the coloured pieces onto a larger sheet of paper. If you don’t have glue, place the coloured pieces down and photograph!
Making Connections
Make a picture for someone you love. Although you may not be able to see the person right now, you can post it or you can photograph it and send it to their phone.
Use whatever materials you can find.
You can draw or paint a picture or you can make a collage by sticking different materials in place. You could use different coloured paper/card/fabric/plastic. If you don’t have glue, you can arrange the materials onto a blank page and photograph your picture
Animals and Insects
Spend 10 minutes outside today.
If you can’t go outside, maybe you can spend some time looking out your window. You might see some birds, bees, bugs, butterflies, dogs, cats.
See: what colour are they?
Hear: Can you hear anything? What kind of sounds do they make?
Smell: Can you smell anything?
Draw or make a picture of your favourite animal or insect you saw today.
Stamping or Printing.
Collect 4 or 5 different things that have an interesting surface, texture or shape. (some things might include orange peels, apple cores, banana skins, bubble wrap, plastic bottles, old socks, hands, toes, feet?
If you have paint or food colouring, pour some colour onto a plate or into a container. Dip each of the objects into the colour and stamp onto some paper or an old piece of fabric
(maybe there is an old pillowcase or sheet around!)
See how many patterns you can make?
What Happens if you layer one pattern on top of another?
Do the patterns you create remind you of anything?
If you don’t have paint or food colouring and you can go outside. Try creating patterns and shapes by dipping your object into some water and stamping onto a patio/footpath/concrete wall. Once the water dries, your patterns will disappear!!
Bring the outdoors indoors
Collect some natural materials from your garden, such as twigs, leaves, grass. If you don’t have a garden collect some natural materials if you go out on a walk.
Make a picture or a collage using the materials you have collected.
You can use food colouring for the background if you don’t have paint and if you don’t have either, you can tear up old magazines, coloured paper or coloured plastics into small pieces and stick them onto a page. If you don’t have glue, simply place them on the page and photograph.
Collect and Create
Collect a variety of different coloured papers/cards/palstics. You might find some interesting things in the recycling or maybe the packaging of food that is no longer needed. Use a scissors to cut the materials into smaller sized pieces or if you don’t have a scissors you can tear the pieces into smaller pieces. Create a collage or a picture by sticking the coloured pieces onto a larger sheet of paper. If you don’t have glue, place the coloured pieces down and photograph!
Making Connections
Make a picture for someone you love. Although you may not be able to see the person right now, you can post it or you can photograph it and send it to their phone.
Use whatever materials you can find.
You can draw or paint a picture or you can make a collage by sticking different materials in place. You could use different coloured paper/card/fabric/plastic. If you don’t have glue, you can arrange the materials onto a blank page and photograph your picture
Animals and Insects
Spend 10 minutes outside today.
If you can’t go outside, maybe you can spend some time looking out your window. You might see some birds, bees, bugs, butterflies, dogs, cats.
See: what colour are they?
Hear: Can you hear anything? What kind of sounds do they make?
Smell: Can you smell anything?
Draw or make a picture of your favourite animal or insect you saw today.
Stamping or Printing.
Collect 4 or 5 different things that have an interesting surface, texture or shape. (some things might include orange peels, apple cores, banana skins, bubble wrap, plastic bottles, old socks, hands, toes, feet?
If you have paint or food colouring, pour some colour onto a plate or into a container. Dip each of the objects into the colour and stamp onto some paper or an old piece of fabric
(maybe there is an old pillowcase or sheet around!)
See how many patterns you can make?
What Happens if you layer one pattern on top of another?
Do the patterns you create remind you of anything?
If you don’t have paint or food colouring and you can go outside. Try creating patterns and shapes by dipping your object into some water and stamping onto a patio/footpath/concrete wall. Once the water dries, your patterns will disappear!!
Coronavirus Explained to Children
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20 Day Challenge Winner
Congratulations to everyone who took part in our 20 day Challenge. It was wonderful to see the children so excited about making in into school everyday and being recognised for their efforts. Well done to all the parents and children for all their effort getting to school :
Winners
Bike: Alexander Kalg Mc Donnell
Cinema pass: Audreyanna Lim
Smyths Voucher: Charlie Donohoe O Rourke
Craft bags: Marija NIkolayea, Olivia Deksne, Rian Clonan, Lilliana Richter
Winners
Bike: Alexander Kalg Mc Donnell
Cinema pass: Audreyanna Lim
Smyths Voucher: Charlie Donohoe O Rourke
Craft bags: Marija NIkolayea, Olivia Deksne, Rian Clonan, Lilliana Richter
Story Sacks
We had a wonderful response to our story sacks 6 week programme. The parents created beautiful story sacks which they presented to the children. Everyone had a wonderful time and the children were delighted with their bags
20 Day Challenge
How do I take part
Your child must attend for 20 full school days from 4th – 29th November.
How it works:
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday full week at school
Week 1 in in in in in yes =sticker
Week 2 in in in in in yes = sticker
week 3 in in in in in yes = sticker
week 4 in in in in in yes = sticker
Attended school for 20 days = 4 stickers = entry into raffle for a bike :)
Attended school for 19 days = entry into draw for Smyths voucher
Attended school for 18 days = entry into draw for family pass to Cinema
Your child must attend for 20 full school days from 4th – 29th November.
How it works:
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday full week at school
Week 1 in in in in in yes =sticker
Week 2 in in in in in yes = sticker
week 3 in in in in in yes = sticker
week 4 in in in in in yes = sticker
Attended school for 20 days = 4 stickers = entry into raffle for a bike :)
Attended school for 19 days = entry into draw for Smyths voucher
Attended school for 18 days = entry into draw for family pass to Cinema
Maths Trail Winners
There was a fantastic response to our website Maths trail. We picked 6 winners at random. Congratulations to everyone who took part and I really hope you enjoyed finding Maths at home
Winners:
Saad Muhammad Room 17
Scott Walsh Room 5
Amy Byrne Room 10
Rebecca Dennan room 11
Boden Ennis Room 2
Chloe Hayden room 1
There was a fantastic response to our website Maths trail. We picked 6 winners at random. Congratulations to everyone who took part and I really hope you enjoyed finding Maths at home
Winners:
Saad Muhammad Room 17
Scott Walsh Room 5
Amy Byrne Room 10
Rebecca Dennan room 11
Boden Ennis Room 2
Chloe Hayden room 1
Attendance Art Competition
A truly amazing response to our Attendance Art competition . It was really difficult picking our winners so well done to everyone.
We will be continuing our 20 Day Attendance Challenge after Halloween and any child who comes to school for 20 consecutive days from 4th - 29th November will be entered into a draw to win a bike. Good luck to everyone
Art Prize Winners
Daniel Harvey room 15
Sean Hopkins room 10
Elizabeth Mc Kenna Divily room 14
Conor Maguire Room 4
Alan Wrobleski Room 8
Callum Byrne room 6
High commended
Ruby o Connor Room 10
Raneen Blaow Room 1
Josh Ray Room 1
Sarah Watkins Room 14
Senan Collins Room 5
Sarah Mucek Kucinski Room 10
We will be continuing our 20 Day Attendance Challenge after Halloween and any child who comes to school for 20 consecutive days from 4th - 29th November will be entered into a draw to win a bike. Good luck to everyone
Art Prize Winners
Daniel Harvey room 15
Sean Hopkins room 10
Elizabeth Mc Kenna Divily room 14
Conor Maguire Room 4
Alan Wrobleski Room 8
Callum Byrne room 6
High commended
Ruby o Connor Room 10
Raneen Blaow Room 1
Josh Ray Room 1
Sarah Watkins Room 14
Senan Collins Room 5
Sarah Mucek Kucinski Room 10
Maths Week - 14th -18th October
Try this Maths Trail at home
What you have to do:
Complete your work on a sheet
From Monday 14th post your work sheet into the box at Gwen's office
Lucky participants will be drawn on Friday 18th and announced Monday 21st.
Prizes for entries drawn from the box
Best of luck!
1.Name two rectangles around your home.
2.Find a table – how many pencils wide is it?
3.How many legs on the table?
4.What colour is your school bag?
5.Is your schoolbag heavier than the pencil?
6Which is longer your school bag or the table?
7.What is your favourite number?
8.Is this number more or less than 10?
Attendance Poster Competition Information:
Ask the children to draw a picture to promote attendance :
why is it important to come to school?
why do you like coming to school?
Every Day Counts! -
Return poster to class teacher / Gwen - winners announced next week
Whats happening for Parents
Next Coffee Morning Wednesday 6th Novemeber @9
Classes in Parents room
Tues : cookery for Parents @12
Wednesday :Story Sacks @9
Fridays Art and Crafts @9
Wednesday Coffee Morning
Next Coffee Morning - Wednesday 9th October
Guest Speakers:
Stephen Hayden; gardening and Ballymun City Farm
Lana from Young Balllymun; story sacks and breakfast buddies
Next Coffee Morning - Wednesday 9th October
Guest Speakers:
Stephen Hayden; gardening and Ballymun City Farm
Lana from Young Balllymun; story sacks and breakfast buddies
Story Sacks
Bring Reading to Life for Your Child &
Enjoy Yourself While You Learn How!
Starting Wednesday 9th October
@ 9am – 11 am
Free books!
Bring Reading to Life for Your Child &
Enjoy Yourself While You Learn How!
Starting Wednesday 9th October
@ 9am – 11 am
Free books!
- Runs for 6 weeks in Our Lady of Victories School
- Held in Parents room
Art for Parents start Friday 4th October at 9am in the Parents room. The wonderful Clare Behan will guide you through some creative and relaxing art activities.
Cookery for Parents starts on Tuesday 24th in the Parents room 12-1.45. Fantastic, fun filled class - samples included!!
School Calendar
Please Note Primary Language Curriculum day - 2nd October 2019 - school will be closed that day
Welcome September 2019
It is great to see everyone back and settled into school.
Wednesday 4th Sept - First Wednesday Coffee Morning - a great way to meet other parents and hear what is going on in the school.
This takes place on the first Wednesday of every month . Also keep an eye on our facebook page or noticeboard for more information.
Facebook: OLVHSCL
HSCL Contact detail: Claire 0874152165
Always feel free to contact me with any concerns or questions
Wednesday 4th Sept - First Wednesday Coffee Morning - a great way to meet other parents and hear what is going on in the school.
This takes place on the first Wednesday of every month . Also keep an eye on our facebook page or noticeboard for more information.
Facebook: OLVHSCL
HSCL Contact detail: Claire 0874152165
Always feel free to contact me with any concerns or questions
Infant Play Day
Today we invited all the incoming Junior Infants and their parents into the school. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet the children and their parents. A huge thank you to the parents and 6th class girls who helped set up the hall and worked extremely hard on the day, your help and support is invaluable and we really appreciate you giving us time and effort. Well done everyone and great team effort.
Sunflower Planting
We had a wonderful morning of planting today. Thanks to all the parents who came in to help with the planting. The parents and children had a wonderful time and lets hope we have some beautiful sunflowers soon:)
Easter Stories
The Easter Bunnies landed into our school today to read the children some Easter stories. Fantastic bunnies at work
Fundraising Coffee Morning
Congratulations to our wonderful OLV parents who organised this fantastic Coffee Morning . It was a wonderful success and all money raised goes towards OLV. Well done to everyone on their hard work, generosity and of course for all those yummy treats
Guess the Sweets
Well done to our Prize winners ...yummy! A huge thank you goes to Georgina Bell one of our fantastic parents who organised the whole raffle.
Well done to our Prize winners ...yummy! A huge thank you goes to Georgina Bell one of our fantastic parents who organised the whole raffle.
Spring Service
we had a beautiful Spring Service for the Junior Infants. Thank you to all the parents who helped with the wonderful art work, to set up the hall and served tea and coffee on the day - great team work everyone.
we had a beautiful Spring Service for the Junior Infants. Thank you to all the parents who helped with the wonderful art work, to set up the hall and served tea and coffee on the day - great team work everyone.
What is happening for Parents
Mondays: Creative writing @1-2.30
Tuesdays: Cookery classes @9am
Wednesday : Walk and Talk - meet at the gate @9 for a walk and a chat !
Friday : Junior Infants Bedtime Story Club in room 3 @9
Drawing and sketching class in parents room @ 9.
HSCL Noticeboard
Keep an eye on our notice board for constant updates of what is happening in OLV.
Cookery Class for Parents
Wonderful Tuesday cookery class in full swing.
Catherine is a fantastic tutor and offers great cooking tips and tricks. The parents all really enjoyed the morning and we all tucked into the finished dish at the end of the class. I would really encourage everyone to attend.
Every Tuesday @9 am in the parents room for the next number of weeks.
Catherine is a fantastic tutor and offers great cooking tips and tricks. The parents all really enjoyed the morning and we all tucked into the finished dish at the end of the class. I would really encourage everyone to attend.
Every Tuesday @9 am in the parents room for the next number of weeks.
Drawing And Painting Class for parents Fridays @9
Beautiful work being created at our drawing and painting class. A really relaxing and enjoyable class.
Maths For Fun
Some of the fantastic maths games we are using in Maths for fun with senior infants. These games can be adapted for use with Junior Infants and First class also.
Wednesday Walk
Great turn out for the parents Wednesday Walk. Everyone enjoying the healthy snacks afterwards in the paretns room. Meet Wednesdays a 9am at the school gate for a walk and a chat.
Maths for Fun
Thank you to the parents who came in to work with senior infants on Maths games. The children and parents had a wonderful time and really enjoyed working together on their maths concepts.
Thank you to the parents who came in to work with senior infants on Maths games. The children and parents had a wonderful time and really enjoyed working together on their maths concepts.
What is happening for Parents
Mondays: Creative writing @1-2.30 starting 21st January
Tuesdays: Cookery classes @9am starting 29th January
Wednesday : Walk on Wednesday - meet at the gate @9for a walk and a chat !
Wednesday 16th : Meeting in Parents room @10am for those interested in a talk on Parents association
Friday : Junior Infants Bedtime Story Club in room 3@9
Drawing and sketching class in parents room @ 9.
Mondays: Creative writing @1-2.30 starting 21st January
Tuesdays: Cookery classes @9am starting 29th January
Wednesday : Walk on Wednesday - meet at the gate @9for a walk and a chat !
Wednesday 16th : Meeting in Parents room @10am for those interested in a talk on Parents association
Friday : Junior Infants Bedtime Story Club in room 3@9
Drawing and sketching class in parents room @ 9.
Free Cookery class
Starting Tuesday 29th January @9 am in the parents room. Join i the fun with this hands on class. Text Claire or Siobhan on 085 2569898
OLV SCHOOLS SUPPORTING THE ALZHEIMERS ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND
'TEADAY' THURSDAY 3RD MAY 2018
PARENTS' ROOM 9AM-11AM
How can you help? You can help in many ways! Join us at 9am on Wednesday 2nd May to help to prepare the room. Make a cake/buns/biscuits and donate them on the day. Join us in the Parents' Room on the morning of 3rd May and make a small donation. And finally you can MAKE A TEA-COSY!!!! We would like to sell tea-cosies on the day for €5 each to help raise money for this wonderful cause. Looking forward to seeing you there! Here are the tea-cosies our fabulous parents have donated already!
SNOWPERSON COMPETITION WINNERS
We had a fantastic response to our snowperson competition. We can see just how much fun you all had in the snow! Well done to all who entered the competition.
Here are all the children celebrating their win!
And our grand prize winner is............
FEBRUARY Events for Parents/Guardians
Relaxation for Parents is starting on Thursday 22nd February- a four week course of learning how to deal with stress in our lives, and have happier, less anxious children as a result.
Art and Craft for Parents continues every Friday- learn how to master art and craft with step-by-step instructions from our resident artist Clare Behan. All done in a very friendly and relaxed group.
Art and Craft for Parents continues every Friday- learn how to master art and craft with step-by-step instructions from our resident artist Clare Behan. All done in a very friendly and relaxed group.
Garda Vetting for Parents:
There is a long standing tradition of encouraging the involvement of parents and grandparents in Our Lady of Victories Infant school. The children are always thrilled to see their parents in the school helping out and getting involved. If you would like to be involved in your child's class please fill out a vetting invitation form available here and contact Ms Greene in the school. They are also available in Gwen's office, Ms Greene's office and the Parents' Room. Please see below some of the wonderful images of our volunteer parents in action at Halloween.
EVENTS/CLASSES FOR PARENTS JANUARY 2018
Monday 15th January: Story Sacks with Lana
from Young Ballymun. Join in to make your child a beautiful 'book bag' to encourage a love of reading. FREE BOOKS!
Wednesday 17th January: First Guest Speakers of the year!
Looking to kick start your New Year's resolution??? Join us at 9am in the Parents' Room for a chat with Owen Roddy who'll give us some great tips on health and fitness.
Hazel Murphy, an expert in all things babies and toddlers, will follow with a chat about the importance of communication and will give us a few baby massage tips. All welcome!
Tuesday 23rd January: Incredible Years Parenting Course. Due to demand we have been given the opportunity to run Incredible Years for the second time this year. If you are interested, please contact Ms Greene asap.
Bird Feeders!
Once again, we are astounded by the beauty, creativity and imagination shown by so many children and families.
Keep the birdfeeders streaming in! Our grounds will look so inviting for the winter birds and we will all enjoy the birdfeeders when we go on our sponsored school walk!
Here is a snapshot of some of the birdfeeders so far!
Once again, we are astounded by the beauty, creativity and imagination shown by so many children and families.
Keep the birdfeeders streaming in! Our grounds will look so inviting for the winter birds and we will all enjoy the birdfeeders when we go on our sponsored school walk!
Here is a snapshot of some of the birdfeeders so far!
Bedtime Story Club Halloween Prize Winners
We made it!
The first full week of the school year is over! Well done to all the boys and girls for a great start to the year, and to all the parents/grandparents for guiding them through.
Try and start as you mean to go on during term time this weekend and fit in a board game or card game and don't forget about story time.
Looking forward to seeing Junior Infant parents on Wednesday morning for tea/coffee/cakes and chats. Pop over to the Parents' Room even if you only have 10 minutes. You'll start to feel like part of the OLV community and get to know some other parents in the class.
Senior Infants and First Class parents- don't worry, I haven't forgotten you! See you on Friday morning for tea/coffee/cakes and chats!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Lorna
The first full week of the school year is over! Well done to all the boys and girls for a great start to the year, and to all the parents/grandparents for guiding them through.
Try and start as you mean to go on during term time this weekend and fit in a board game or card game and don't forget about story time.
Looking forward to seeing Junior Infant parents on Wednesday morning for tea/coffee/cakes and chats. Pop over to the Parents' Room even if you only have 10 minutes. You'll start to feel like part of the OLV community and get to know some other parents in the class.
Senior Infants and First Class parents- don't worry, I haven't forgotten you! See you on Friday morning for tea/coffee/cakes and chats!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Lorna