Session 6, Week 3

As I watched the DELTA heroes dress rehearsal for their Gala this coming Friday, I thought about what they were practicing. Yes, they were practicing musical numbers and sketch comedy, but far more importantly they were practicing: public speaking, organizing an event, leading an event, supporting one another, being brave and being vulnerable. They will use these skills throughout their lives! What else did heroes practice this week?

The Spark Studios practiced what it means to work as team during morning launches this week. Learners completed obstacle courses together, solved a mixture of puzzles together, and explored what it means to work as a team when doing individual work.

This week we created a super quiet area for learners to go during Montessori work cycle for some extra quiet focus time. Those who really valued that special space were able to work as a team to keep that a quiet zone. They were able to really get into flow with their goals.

During CHOICE work cycle we learned about the teamwork of pollination and the role animals, insects, and worms play in our environment. Most heroes loved noticing the different parts of their worm and how they moved about. Some spent the rest of their time creating playground equipment or homes for their new friends!

We also continued to practice our observational skills with our growing plants. We took some plants outside to explore and our grass head people finally got long enough for “haircuts”.

And always, we practiced our creativity and fine motor skills during CHOICE work cycle.

This week in core skills, Fire Studio heroes discussed and practiced tools needed to Finish Strong on their school journey this year. With precious few solid weeks left, each day counts! And the resulting focus is obvious. Completed Writer’s Gym binders, full math badges, and Lifelong Reader / BOOKS badges are piling up. Many heroes are squeezing in the last few days of their Heroic Habit practices.

And of course – heroes are still practicing playing hard! Heroes are soaking in the warm weather, playing hard through lunch, P.E. and other free time to make the most of their work time. A big shout out to all CHOICE parents who are acting as mentors and allies to help your heroes Finish String!

During Quest this week we took some time for team building and leadership training.

The Heroes are stepping into their roles in their businesses. Businesses that weren’t making much money practiced their creativity and business marketing and generated a lot of gem revenue this week!

As the heroes increase their financial literacy, on their own level and at their own pace, their confidence is also increasing in using terms like supply, demand, economy, etc. The heroes are practicing their communication skills and self advocacy skills!

The DELTA Studio started their new Quest (Flight!) They studied and then practiced the timeline of flight,

They practiced following directions and problem solving as they built kites.

They practiced patience and good humor as they tried to fly kites on a pretty windless day.

Practicing volleyball during P.E. was a blast!

Heroes learned a lot as they “built” the Great Wall of China during Civ.

As mentioned in the start, they are practicing far more than just music as they prepare for their upcoming performance.

When I heard the word practice as a child, it seemed it was always associated with practicing my piano or going to a sports practice. Turns out, there’s a lot more to practice in life! It’s inspiring and fun to recognize all that your heroes are practicing each day. While they are practicing playing and being children, they are also practicing the skills and mindsets that can lead to happiness throughout their life!