Saturday, June 18, 2011

Tips for Internet Safety

                                                                                                                                                                  http://jonathansblog.net/

The internet is a wonderful source of information and opens up the entire world to us in the comfort of our own home.  With all of the benefits of the internet, there are also dangers to be aware of.  

Just like we wouldn't let our children cross the road without an adult; parents and guardians need to be aware of the dangers to help keep children safe online. 

Some things to watch out for are: 

predators, cyberbully's, viruses... 

(While I was looking for pictures for this blog post a virus attempted to infect my computer. BE AWARE!)

Watch this short video on internet safety brought to us by 
Mom's Homeroom.com:

Other helpful resources:

Something else to remember:  
Once ANYTHING is posted online; pictures...messages...etc, there is ALWAYS a trace of that message or image that can NEVER be erased.  That being said, parents: help your child(ren) to know what is and isn't appropriate to post.  While posting is fun, there may be repercussions later... 

Here is a post of adults learning how serious online posting is the hard way: http://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/story?id=4791295&page=1

Again, the internet IS a wonderful source of information and connects people worldwide.  Have fun and be safe while navigating cyberspace. 

Monday, June 6, 2011

Letter of Introduction

Hello and welcome to first edition of "The Peterson Pilot!" 


My name is Angela Peterson and I am very excited about our upcoming semester!  I have been fortunate enough to grow up in Idaho and love the great outdoors!  I love to sing and you will find your child will learn a lot of songs when learning new concepts in class.  I am a fun loving person who is patient and kind.  My philosophy is one should never stop learning, no matter their age.  So, while I teach your children what I know, I will also be learning so I can grow!

This blog is available for you to receive information about upcoming lessons and activities your child will be participating in.  Please check each week so you are up to date on what we are doing inside the classroom.  I hope to include art and pictures of your children at work and play.  I realize pictures can be a sensitive matter and I will be sending home a permission slip for you to complete before I post any pictures of your child.

My classroom expectations are very simple.  We are to treat one another with respect and kindness.  Together, we will create and maintain an environment for learning. There will be individual and group activities daily so children can participate in a team environment.  I enjoy interactive learning and encourage children to learn to make decisions and problem solve on their own.  Since this is a learning environment, I ask that any toys, cell phones, hand held game systems etc are left at home or remain in back packs so we will not be distracted from our objective.  Should I find any of these items have made their way into our classroom I will remove the item to be returned at the end of the day.  

Since children learn from all avenues in their lives, I feel it is important that we as adults work as a team to provide the best education possible for your children. That being said, I plan to give you an opportunity to participate in your child's learning from home.  Once a month I will include fun activities for you to complete with your child. One example of the type of activity you will be doing is creating an "All about Me" poster. This is your chance to let your child shine! You can include art, family pictures and anything that rings true for your child.  I will be decorating our classroom with the completed posters. 

I feel maintaining open communication is essential for a successful semester.  I am always available for questions, please contact me anytime!  You can reach me at 208-999-5555.


Also, I am always looking for volunteers to help with classroom projects.  If you are interested in volunteering, please let me know!  

I look forward to meeting each of you and want to thank you in advance for trusting me with your most treasured possessions...your children!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Angela Peterson