Destanie is described as a “true team player who is constantly full of cheer and energy” by her program leader. The Heart House staff and volunteers could not agree more. She walks into Heart House every day with a smile on her face, eager to participate with her group. This young lady is incredibly disciplined, focused, and thoughtful—qualities which are not often found at such a young age. She is always up for anything and often emerges as a positive leader among her peers. Destanie is full of positive energy, loves to share her stories and ideas, and enjoys helping out other students and staff with whatever they need. A special project she recently helped out with was organizing books in our huge library collection! It is no surprise then that Destanie has been chosen as the 2nd and 3rd grade group’s Student of the Month for January! Destanie is a super second grader!

March:  Inventors & Inventions

Every year, tens of thousands of people try to develop their ideas and market them commercially. But where would we be today without inventions from the past? This month’s theme focuses on four major aspects of invention: famous inventions, important inventions, fun creations, and the process of inventing. These lessons define and introduce inventions to students and encourage them to begin thinking about how things work and who makes things work. It will give them a basic understanding of all the steps and influences involved in inventing machines and objects, integrating science, math, technology, social studies, literature and art. Through hands-on and group activities, Heart House children will “meet” historical and modern inventors, learn about their amazing (and sometimes wacky) ideas and creations and discuss how these people influence life- past, present, and future! And, of course, they will become inventors themselves, transported into a world where anything and everything is possible!

February:  Mysteries and Investigations
Heart House children discovered their super sleuth personalities as they investigated stories, crime scenes, and unsolved mysteries during our month of heavy-duty detective work. Students explored the world of forensic science, such as how to use print and handwriting in solving cases. They were also introduced to popular mystery stories, learned the “elements of a mystery”, and wrote their own stories over the course of the month. The exciting finale this month involved a crime scene investigation which required every student to put on their best detective coat and thinking cap in order to solve a very important Heart House mystery!
  

Wanted Posters from Mysteries and Investigations

Here are some of our favorite images from the last month:

Self defense class courtesy of Master Nibloc
Work Out Buddies: A new choice activity at Heart House
Dr. Seuss Day sponsored by Delta Phi Omega: The children made gak and participated in literacy games
Fun Friday with the Austin Junior Forum

Thank you to our many donors and friends who donated funds, time, and talent to our organization this month! For more information on donating to Heart House, please visit our website at http://www.hearthouse.org/donate.htm.