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Why Creative Approaches in the Classroom Matters: A Peek Inside Hebrew Academy’s Second Grade

Wednesday, 4 September, 2024 - 2:53 pm

Walking into our 2nd-grade class at Hebrew Academy, I didn’t expect to see playdough on the desks, let alone as a part of the handwriting lesson. But Mrs. Santos, our dedicated second-grade teacher, had a different approach. As the students squeezed, rolled, and pinched the playdough, they were strengthening their fine motor skills, preparing their fingers for writing with confidence. It’s these small, thoughtful moments that set Hebrew Academy apart. When you think you’ve seen it all, our passionate teachers find new ways to surprise us.

Second-grade students at Hebrew Academy engage in a unique handwriting lesson using sensory play with putty. The interactive activity helps strengthen finger muscles, improving fine motor skills essential for writing. Students are focused and smiling as they squeeze and mold the putty, showing how creative approaches in the classroom foster both learning and enjoyment. 

Nurturing Individual Growth Through Creative Learning

At Hebrew Academy, we believe that every child is unique, and so is their learning path. Mrs. Santos, inspired by our school’s vibrant community and the joyful spirit of our students, brings this belief into her classroom every day. She embraces a creative approach, working in centers that allow students to explore, engage, and grow at their own pace. By incorporating hands-on activities like playdough exercises, she’s not just teaching handwriting—she’s nurturing essential skills like focus, coordination, and muscle control that contribute to a student’s long-term success.

A smiling second-grade student at Hebrew Academy participates in a fun and engaging handwriting preparation exercise, using sensory materials to build finger strength and coordination. The activity is part of an innovative approach to enhance fine motor skills, supporting handwriting and overall academic success. Other students in the background are deeply focused on their tasks, illustrating the joyful and immersive learning environment in the classroom. 

A Dedication That Makes a Difference

Mrs. Santos’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: every student is unique, and it’s her job to help them take ownership of their learning. This dedication to personalized teaching isn’t just about the day-to-day lessons; it’s about instilling confidence, independence, and a love for learning that will carry them through life. By engaging in creative activities, like playdough exercises, beginning with opening the container using only two fingers, they learn to tackle challenges, think through tasks step-by-step, and feel a sense of achievement with every small success. These skills go far beyond handwriting—they prepare for a lifetime of learning and problem-solving.

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Why It Matters for Your Child’s Future

Choosing the right school for your child is one of your most important decisions. Hebrew Academy's commitment to innovative, individualized education helps students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We know that small moments, like using playdough before writing, add to big successes because this fosters an environment where students feel supported, valued, and excited to learn.

Are you ready to see the difference a dedicated community can make in your child’s education? 

 

 

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