Mrs. Lopes: Celebrations Around the World

Posted on by Amanda Lopes

As Montessori teachers, we embrace the knowledge that one way we can promote peace and understanding of cultures around the world is to find age-appropriate ways to introduce the children to different traditions and celebrations.  While doing so in a very introductory way, it still allows us to highlight the similarities and differences of people everywhere.  These past few weeks have provided the opportunity to talk about Hanukkah, St. Nicholas Day, Christmas and Kwanzaa.

We learned about Hanukkah by reading stories, learning about a menorah, how to play the dreidel game and even had the opportunity to taste some delicious potato latkes.  We also learned about St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas was a Bishop who inherited a lot of money from his family. He was also a very gentle, kind man who lived by the virtues of personal generosity, charity towards those in need, and taking care of the young and the most vulnerable. We learned that St. Nicholas loved to perform random acts of kindness for those in need. Many people around the world celebrate St. Nicholas Day by leaving a pair of boots outside their door. So, we left boots outside our classroom door, and to our amazement, the boots were beautifully decorated and filled with candy canes the next morning.

Using age-appropriate literature, we introduced the importance of Christmas and Kwanzaa for those who celebrate. ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas was enjoyed by all and then we decorated Christmas cookies to bring home.  We also learned about Kwanzaa which was created in 1966 and is based on the elements of African heritage. It is a celebration lasting seven days, from December 26th to January 1st.  Each day a candle is lit to represent a different principle: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

A huge shout-out to parents who always help in any way they can.  I know there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes to afford us these opportunities.  It is so very much appreciated.  As always, if there is anyone who may have different traditions or customs to share with us, please reach out.

Wishing you a holiday season filled with much peace, love and simplicity.

Amanda & Hema

Ms. Marissa: Celebrations Around the World

Posted on by Marissa Frisk

As Montessori teachers, we embrace the knowledge that one way we can promote peace and understanding of cultures around the world is to find age-appropriate ways to introduce the children to different traditions and celebrations.  While doing so in a very introductory way, it still allows us to highlight the similarities and differences of people everywhere.  These past few weeks have provided the opportunity to talk about Hanukkah, St. Nicholas Day, St. Lucia’s Day and Christmas.

We learned about Hanukkah by reading stories, learning about a menorah, the importance of the Shamash (the helper candle) and how to play the dreidel game (which is now a work on our math shelf!).  We even got to make our own dreidels.

We also learned about St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas was a Bishop who inherited a lot of money from his family. He was also a very gentle, kind man who lived by the virtues of personal generosity, charity towards those in need, and taking care of the young and the most vulnerable. We learned that St. Nicholas loved to perform random acts of kindness for those in need. Many people around the world celebrate St. Nicholas Day by leaving a pair of boots outside their door. So, we left boots outside our classroom door, and to our amazement, the boots were beautifully decorated and filled with candy canes the next morning.

We read ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas and then made “reindeer food” to bring home and feed Santa’s reindeers.

We have our very own Lucia in our classroom and learned about St. Lucia’s Day, a Swedish tradition about finding light in the darkness.

We always try to respectfully learn about many different cultures and traditions. We noticed that the thread that connects all of these traditions is light, and we try to harness that connection.

A huge shout-out to parents who always help in any way they can.  There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes to afford us these opportunities.  It is so very much appreciated.  As always, if there is anyone who may have different traditions or customs to share with us, please reach out.

Wishing you a holiday season filled with much peace, love and simplicity.

Marissa & Sue

Mrs. Sargeant: A Peek at the Week

Posted on by Christine Sargeant

It was an eventful week! We had a birthday celebration for Spencer, and have been loving the book he shared with us; Barnyard Dance by Sandra Boynton. We’ve been incorporating the song (on Spotify) into our daily circle time. It is quite catchy and gets everyone up and moving!

We found out that Kai became a big brother – we are so excited for the whole family. Congratulations!

Our ‘Pajamas & Pancakes’ party was a big hit with the children! The pancakes, berries and hot cocoa were devoured. We had a dance party, too. It was such a fun day!

We tasted ruby red grapefruit- both fresh and jarred. The jarred was a more popular favorite. Many of the children repeatedly asked for more!

We attended the school-wide holiday concert, where we were polite members of the audience – keeping mostly quiet and giving a round of applause in between songs. Their older schoolmates were captivating as they confidently took the stage to perform songs for all of us. 

We look forward to seeing all of you in 2024. Wishing your families joy, love, and good health in the new year. Wishing a very  Merry Christmas to all who celebrate!

Warmly,

Christine & Lizette

 

Ms. Marissa: Sewing Circles and Spritzers!

Posted on by Marissa Frisk

This past week we tried to have as many calm moments as possible with all the excitement happening next week! We really dug into our Montessori roots by creating new activities in the classroom that have extra points of interest and call for concentration from the children.

We have three new sewing works out in Practical Life. We have had many “sewing circles” this week around our large community tables. Even our youngest students have joined in on the fun! We have learned how to embroider, sew a button onto fabric, and make button-closed bracelets. All these activities include cutting, threading needles, and tying knots! Although many children will not master all of these skills, we create as many opportunities for everyone to complete at least part of the work. You may start getting many button bracelets at home this week!

We also enjoyed “apple juice spritzers” as our Food Preparation this week. If you ever want to get a child to focus on their work, include making their own snack as part of it! Our Food Prep table was ALWAYS busy, and the children really enjoyed mixing apple juice and seltzer water for a nice refreshing drink.

We also starting one of three books focusing on “social thinking” or social/emotional learning. This week’s book is titled “Thoughts and Feelings,” where we learned that we all have brains (our thought makers) that are connected to our hearts (our feelings keepers). We learned that the thoughts inside of our brains affect the feelings inside of our hearts. This helps children realize how their actions can affect others.

Next week we have such a fun-filled and busy week with Christmas reading and crafts, Hanukkah reading and crafts, our bi-weekly parent reader, our holiday concert, and a birthday celebration!

Have a wonderful weekend,

Marissa & Sue

Mrs. Sargeant: A Peek at the Week

Posted on by Christine Sargeant

As you can see in the photos each week, the children spend a lot of time working with the Practical Life materials. These materials strengthen the coordination of small muscle movements, particularly in the fingers and hands. Developing fine motor skills in toddlers lays the groundwork for various essential skills they’ll need later in life. From writing and drawing to self-care tasks like buttoning clothes or tying shoelaces, these skills form the basis for many everyday activities.

Fine motor activities require precise coordination between the eyes and hands. As toddlers engage in activities like pouring water or threading beads, they refine their hand-eye coordination, which is fundamental for tasks such as reading and writing.

Strengthening fine motor skills empowers toddlers to become more independent in daily activities. Everyday tasks like feeding themselves, brushing their teeth, or getting dressed become achievable, boosting their confidence and fostering a sense of autonomy.

This week, we were invited to attend the Middle School’s production of Chef Showdown! The play was written, produced, and constructed by the 6-8th grade students. Our class was excited to walk down to the gym to be a part of the audience. 

Food tasting: We tried baby kale three ways. First, we each munched on a raw leaf. The next day, we tried homemade kale chips, seasoned with olive oil and salt (many thanks to Ivy’s family!) By week’s end,  some of the children opted to try the raw kale again, this time with a vinaigrette dip.

Wishing a Happy Hanukkah to those who celebrate! May the festival of lights fill your hearts and homes with happiness, hope, and peace. 

Warmly,

Christine & Lizette

 

Mrs. Doyle: Gifts From The Heart

Posted on by Michelle Handibode

We hear the children speak throughout the day about what they hope to receive as a gift. Through literature, classroom conversations, and taking a peek into the different holidays celebrated by those around the world, we introduce the concept and power of giving as the best gift of all.

We asked each child what gift they could share during this holiday season.  We told them it does not need to cost anything, and it really is about helping others and our communities.  They could share their gift with a loved one or even be a secret gift giver and do something anonymously for someone in need.  The simplicity of their words is heartwarming.

The world could learn a lot by listening to these children!

Ainsley–  I can make pizza and pasta for my family.
Arya–I can help my Grandpa clean the house.
Bodie–  I can help my Nanny and Papa fix things when they are broken.
Ella–  I can plant Lilies to make the world more beautiful.  Lily is my middle name too.
EmmaJo–  I can help take care of my guinea pigs.
Hadley–I can help clean up the big triangle forts I make with my Mommy and Daddy
Hannah–  I can do the dishes to help my mom.
Harper–  I can help Spencer pick up his toys.
Isla–I can help my neighbor grow vegetables in his garden.  He shares a lot of food with us, so I should probably help him.
Jacob–I can donate stuff in my house I don’t need anymore.
Jonathan–I can help my daddy fix the engine in his broken car.
Joseph–I can share my Paw Patrol cars with my sister.
Leo–.I can teach everyone how to count by 10’s.
Maayan– I can help Mommy clean up the toys in my house.
Melina–I can teach people how to color because I am really good at it.
River–I can help my mom wash the dishes.
Ryan–I can teach Poppy how to put her coat on.
Saanvi–I can give a hug to someone who is sad.
Tommy–I can teach people all about space because I know so much about it.
Zara–I can be kind to everyone I meet.
Zion–I can read The Snowman book to people who don’t have it.

Wishing each and every one of you much peace and love during this holiday season.  Take time to enjoy the gifts that aren’t wrapped.

Warmly,

Michelle & Maria

Mrs. Lopes: Gifts From the Heart

Posted on by Amanda Lopes

We hear the children speak throughout the day about what they hope to receive as a gift. Through literature, classroom conversations, and taking a peek into the different holidays celebrated by those around the world, we introduce the concept and power of giving as the best gift of all.

We asked each child what gift they could share during this holiday season.  We told them it does not need to cost anything, and it really is about helping others and our communities.  They could share their gift with a loved one or even be a secret gift giver and do something anonymously for someone in need.  The simplicity of their words is heartwarming.

The world could learn a lot by listening to these children!

Amelia– I can give my Mommy hugs to make her happy.
Annie– I can plant flowers with Mommy in the garden to make it look beautiful.
Arian— I can help clean up when I make a mess at home.
Arjuna– I can help Mommy run the dishwasher.
Ben– I can help take care of my pet rabbits.
Brisa– I can help take care of my baby brother Theo.
Casey– I can be nice to my brothers.
Daniel– I can share my toys with my sister Helena.
Elanour– I can help clean up my food.
Elizabeth– I can help my Grandma cook.
Enzo– I can bring medicine to my sister Lucia when she is sick.
Evie– I can make Ruscher happy by playing hide and seek with him.
Fiona– I can share my old toys in my playroom with kids who don’t have any.
Harlan– I can help my Mom fix my Darth Vader toy because it was broken.
Kian– I can help put together the soccer net with my Dad.
Kimberlin– I can help make the guacamole and salad with Mom and Dad for dinner.
Levi– I can help cook dinner with Mommy and Daddy.
Nicolas– I can help Mommy clean up.
Noelle– I can make my sister Marlowe happy by making her feel better when she cries.
Ryder– I can help Mom cook sweet potato casserole.

Wishing each and every one of you much peace and love during this holiday season.  Take time to enjoy the gifts that aren’t wrapped.

Warmly,

Amanda & Hema

Mrs. Sargeant: A Peek at the Week

Posted on by Christine Sargeant

Last week, along with the entire school community, we ushered in the season of gratitude. The Middle School hosted a Thanksgiving celebration, symbolizing the spirit of kindness and unity. Students from each level, Primary – Middle School, presented The Story of the Four Elements and then, a group of students, teachers, and staff, shared cultural blessings of gratitude in the native language of that culture, before sharing the bread that was baked by all the students. Our class sat quietly, completely enthralled and excited to see the familiar faces of their middle school mentors. 

Special thanks to the Huttemann and Sabath families for generously providing all the ingredients so that we could bake banana-blueberry bread to contribute to the special gathering. The children absolutely loved the entire baking process – washing hands, mashing, measuring, mixing, stirring, sniffing, bringing the bread to and from the oven, and finally tasting the bread. (The children made muffins to share as a class, but we baked bread to share at the communal feast.)

A few favorites from the week have been reading Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you Hear? Reading, singing, and acting out I’m Going on a Bear Hunt, and singing  Give Yourself a Bear Hug by Stephanie Leavell.

Wishing you all a perfect balance of relaxation and fun this weekend, Christine & Lizette