This week, we introduced some exciting new work to the classroom! The children have been exploring a beautiful basket filled with all types of gourds, each one unique in shape, size, color, and texture. This activity expands their descriptive vocabulary as they observe and compare. It’s a wonderful way to encourage early science and language development, as they classify and describe what they see.

We also added a favorite seasonal activity—pumpkin hammering! Using a small mallet and golf tees, the children strengthen their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and focus. Activities like this prepare the hand for future writing and build confidence through purposeful work.

Another highlight of our week was taking our first rainy day walk. We believe that outdoor time is valuable in all types of weather. As the saying goes, “There’s no bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” Well, besides tornadoes and lightning. Of course, we stay indoors during storms or unsafe conditions, but whenever it’s safe, we go outside to breathe fresh air and connect with nature. The children absolutely loved splashing in puddles, feeling the raindrops, and giggling as they tried to catch the rain on their tongues.

Moments like these remind us of the joy and learning that come from simple experiences—observing nature, using our senses, and discovering the world firsthand.

Food Tasting:

This week’s food-tasting experience featured a carrot, complete with its stalks and leafy greens still attached. The children examined the carrot closely, noticing its bright color, crisp texture, and earthy scent. We discussed how the carrot is a root vegetable, with the orange part growing underground and the green leaves reaching up toward the sun. After exploring, the children tasted a slightly cooked baby carrot, discovering its natural sweetness. Food-tasting lessons like this foster curiosity, promote healthy eating habits, and instill early awareness of botany as children learn where their food comes from.

Love and light,

Cynthia and Sara