Third grade comes to a close next week.
As we reflect on the last two months... here are some new "first"s. This list never ceases to grow!
1. Aditya went to Elkus ranch farm as part of his class field trip, and did community work (including but not limited to mucking animal stalls). He also stayed away from home for 2 nights. Although one parent (Aai) was on the trip, she was not around him for the most part, probably an hour each day. In related news, Aditya proposed stir fried vegetables as part of the dinner menu his group cooked. Almost no other kid proposed vegetables :)
2. Aditya asked to go out as a family. No... there is more to this than meets the eye. Sister didn't want to go. Baba offered to stay home with her. Aditya then said that he wouldn't go if she and Baba weren't coming. He then cut a deal to give her an hour of playtime the next day if only she came! He really wanted to go as a family and not otherwise. Sweet!
3. Aditya researched Andrew Carnegie as part of his third grade curriculum which requires him to learn about an 18th century character. In addition, as part of the hands-on curriculum in our school, Aditya played the 18th century industrialist/philanthropist as he became part of the "Living History Museum". He put on a black suit and... hold your breath.. a grey beard plus mustaches! (Last year sister similarly played the character of Laura Ingalls Wilder). Plus, he prepared a speech in which he became Andrew Carnegie and described his life. (All kids and adults at the school were encouraged to visit the Living History Museum and ask questions of the characters)
4. Aditya now takes Gymnastics classes once a week!
5. Aditya continues to play wall-ball at school during recess. To know what a big deal this is, please read blog posts from a year ago.
6. Sister was part of the play "Beauty and the Beast Jr" which she rehearsed for weeks. After the performance, when the kids were home... Aditya said the to her, "Wow! You are really brave to go up on stage and do that". During the performance(s) Aditya volunteered at the Concessions Stand. He got to handle lots of money, which he did with great sincerity and integrity:) He also demonstrated his lightening fast mathematical abilities which helped him earn people's complements. He loved doing it and hopes she does more theater so he can volunteer at the concessions :)
