Mrs. Hood: Welcome to the World of Insects!

This week, we took a closer look at some of the tiniest but most fascinating creatures on Earth—insects! We began by exploring the anatomy of an insect, using large models to help us see all the important parts up close. The children were introduced to the three main body parts of all insects: the head, thorax, and abdomen. We also learned that insects have six legs, antennae to help them smell and feel the world around them, and most have wings as well.

To help reinforce this new vocabulary in a fun and memorable way, we learned a new song set to the familiar tune of “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes”:

Head, thorax, abdomen, abdomen
Head, thorax, abdomen, abdomen
Eyes, antennas, wings, six legs
Head, thorax, abdomen, abdomen

The children loved singing and moving along, pretending to be their favorite insect and it helped solidify these big words in a joyful and age-appropriate way!

With a strong foundation in insect anatomy, we zoomed in on a specific insect: the ant. We learned about the ant’s life cycle, discovering the stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult ant. These were exciting new words for the toddlers, and many repeated them throughout the week as we worked, sang, and played.

We also made exciting real-world connections as  some live insects visited our classroom—what perfect timing! The children were eager to observe them carefully and point out their body parts, matching what we had learned in our lessons.

Although spiders sparked a lot of interest too, we learned that they are not insects because they have eight legs and only two body segments. Still, spiders became a fun part of our exploration, and the children enjoyed watching them closely.

During outdoor time, we continued to observe and discuss other insects such as grasshoppers, ladybugs, dragonflies, flies, and bees. Using models and real sightings, the children are beginning to recognize patterns and characteristics that help them classify what is (and isn’t!) an insect. Next week, we will focus our studies in the majestic butterflies… the children are eager to see the live caterpillars finally arrive (they got lost in the mail) and watch their life cycle right before their very own eyes! We can’t wait!

For food tasting this week, we offered something fresh and juicy: kiwi! The children were curious about the fuzzy brown exterior and the bright green inside with its tiny seeds. Some dove right in, while others took cautious little nibbles.

We also had the joy of celebrating a very special birthday this week as one of our friends turned three years old!  The birthday child beamed with pride, and the whole class joined in singing and sharing in the joy of the moment, as always!

Finally, a heartfelt thank you:

  • To all the parents who took time to meet with Patty and me during Parent-Teacher Conferences—we loved connecting with you.
  • To the wonderful grandparents and special friends who joined us for Grandparents’ Day—your presence meant so much to the children.
  • To all of you for the love and appreciation shown during Teacher Appreciation Week—your kind words and thoughtful gestures truly touched our hearts.
  • And to all the amazing mothers in our classroom community—Happy Mother’s Day! Thank you for your endless love, strength, and the beautiful energy you bring into your children’s lives. We hope you feel celebrated and appreciated this weekend and always.

Warmly,

Mrs. Hood and Ms. Patty

Reminder: Please make sure your child bring rain boots and rain jacket/suit on rainy days! We will take advantage of outdoors adventures in all type of weather as much is possible.


Mrs. Wilson: Splashing, Smashing Fun Week!

This week began with a forecast full of rain, but we’re happy to report that the weather shifted and gave us a few bright moments! Even on the rainy days, we made the most of it—splashing in puddles, getting fresh air, and exploring the land around us. Rain or shine, the children always find a way to enjoy the outdoors, and so do we!

In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, this week’s food tasting featured avocado! The children were excited to try something new—many enjoyed the flavor, although a few weren’t too sure about the texture. With our extra avocados, we took the fun a step further and made guacamole together!

Each child had a turn using a child-sized potato masher to smash the avocado. After all the hard work, we mixed in tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice. The final touch? Enjoying our delicious guacamole with tortilla chips! The children were so proud of their creation, they even walked together to share a plate with Mr. Newman.

Miss Sara and I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the parents and grandparents who showered us with love and appreciation this week. Your kind gestures made us feel truly blessed and spoiled. We are so grateful to be part of such a thoughtful and supportive community!


Rain, Rain, Go away!

Rain, Rain, Go Away! This week has been filled with many rain showers, making the week a little different. We literally went with the weather, if it was sunny we ran with it, raining we stopped to admire or sigh! On Tuesday we went out and it was sunny blue skies, which quickly turned to misty rain, we simply embraced it. We played in the misty rain, jumped in puddles and enjoyed being outside!

With our limited time outside we enjoyed making guacamole with Mrs. Lizette and tasting each ingredient! The limes were the star of the show. I was quite surprised at the children’s eagerness to try cilantro! We also made a delicious carrot cake with extra carrots, dried cherries and pumpkin seeds! The children devoured the carrot cake, with so many healthy new ingredients, I was really surprised!

The outpouring of love and appreciation this week has been so deeply appreciated. I admit I am not a overly emotional person, but your cards…..they touched my heart, and left me teary. Thank you for sharing your children with us each day, its a honor and a joy to be with them.

With Full Hearts,

Ms. Mollie, Ms. Lizette and Ms. Anabelle


Ms. Mollie: Hello May! Welcome Grandparents and Special Friends!

What a fun week we have had here at Fraser Woods! We started our week off with a visit to baby chicks from Mrs. Lopes’ classroom! We also got to meet one of the chicks and practice our patience in observing and touching the chick! The children were absolutely delighted!

The children have been helping to plant, both our planters and on our toddler playground! We love exploring insects, dirt, and the blooms our flowers have. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle has been an instant hit; we read it daily by request! The favorite word in the room right now is “chrysalis”, and the children love talking about what he eats!

The highlight of the week has been preparing and having our grandparents and special friends in our classroom! The children were so happy. We had a buzz of excitement from both grandparents and children, and overall joy! We are so grateful that so many grandparents and special friends could join us and have a little glimpse into the magic of Fraser Woods Montessori!

With Full Hearts,

Ms.Mollie, Ms.Lizette and Ms.Anabelle


Mrs. Wilson: A Special Week!

This week, our classroom has begun a gentle transformation as we introduce the fascinating world of pond life and insects. Throughout the month, the children will explore various life cycles firsthand. We’re excited to observe painted lady butterflies and praying mantises, and we’re hopeful that tadpoles will make an appearance soon!

On Thursday, the children had the delightful opportunity to attend a special performance of Finding Nemo Jr., presented by the Upper Elementary and Middle School students. They sat attentively and respectfully throughout the show—we were incredibly proud of them! The performance was full of energy and heart. Bravo to our talented older students!

We also celebrated Grandparents and Special Friends Day, a truly joyful occasion. The children were thrilled to welcome their loved ones into the classroom. It was a pleasure to meet everyone and see the joy shared between generations.

Love and Light

Cynthia and Sara


Ms. Mollie: Spring Work and Play!

Spring Work and Play!

Springtime is such a special time; it reminds us to get out and explore! We have been exploring many new classroom works, and outside, we have been enjoying our beautiful campus at Fraser Woods. The yellow blooms have the children exploring our playground, making pretend soups, and gifting tiny little yellow blooms to their friends. Many children love to sit or run through the tunnel of flowers, simply taking in nature. While this week has been short, it has been filled with laughter, kindness, and lots of big energy!

With Full Hearts,

Ms.Mollie, Ms.Lizette and Ms. Anabelle


Mrs. Wilson: A Spontaneous Spring Surprise!

This week began like any other, with the children continuing their exploration of spring and birds. But Thursday brought a delightful surprise during our time on the playground—a visit from a special spring bunny!

Mr. Bunny came by to greet the children and hand out sweet treats. The little ones welcomed him with high fives and hugs. Even those who were a bit hesitant at first couldn’t help but be drawn into the excitement—it was a joyful moment for everyone!

Later, we also participated in a fire drill. The children were happily playing outside when the alarm sounded. They quickly gathered at the walk rope and calmly made their way to the field, where we joined the rest of the school. After the drill, we stayed a bit longer to enjoy the sunshine and chase bubbles across the turf.

To those who celebrate, we wish you a joyful and peaceful Easter and Chag Pesach Sameach!

Love and light,
Cynthia and Sara


Mrs. Hood: Clucking, Cackling and Crowing!

Even with a short week, our toddlers had a wonderful time exploring, learning, and connecting with the world around them in so many meaningful ways.

Our chicken study continued to spark curiosity and conversation. This week, the children observed and compared the differences between a hen and a rooster. They noticed that roosters are often bigger, with more colorful feathers and a tall, bright red comb, while hens are usually smaller and more subtly colored. Using pictures and vocabulary cards, we talked about the different parts of a chicken, like the beak, comb, wattle, feathers, and feet, and we also practiced the sounds hens and roosters make—they seemed to really enjoy this!

As part of our study, we also introduced one of a chicken’s favorite foods: worms! The children were fascinated to learn about how chickens love to peck around for worms, and we brought that idea into the classroom with a sensory bin full of realistic, wiggly worm replicas. There was lots of laughter and pretend play as little hands explored the squishy “worms” in the soil.

Another hands-on activity this week involved learning to use a mortar and pestle to crush clean, dried eggshells. The children took turns gently grinding the shells into smaller pieces, then helped sprinkle them into the soil of our classroom plants. We talked about how eggshells give the plants nutrients, especially calcium, to help them grow strong. This was a beautiful example of caring for our environment and connecting life cycles—chickens, eggs, and growing plants—all in one meaningful activity.

For our weekly food tasting, we explored snap peas! Some children dove right in, enjoying the satisfying crunch and slightly sweet flavor, while others watched curiously before taking a brave bite.

We also celebrated a birthday this week! As always, a favorite activity in our environment, as it gives the birthday child a moment to feel seen and special. The class always enjoys singing together and hearing a few sweet moments shared about the birthday child’s journey around the sun.

As we wrap up the week, we want to wish a very Happy Easter to those who celebrate. May your weekend be filled with peace, joy, and time with loved ones.

Warmly,

Mrs. Hood and Ms. Patty