Greetings Turtle Families,
Last week it was wonderful to welcome everyone back after Thanksgiving break. The children were so happy to see each other, and I heard lots of “I missed you, did you miss me?” conversations between them as they reunited. There were many hugs all around. It is such a privilege to be able to witness their friendships grow and see how much they love each other.
In the forest, we had lots of “little birdies” chirping around, busy at work, building nests. Some of the nests were very elaborate and took time to plan and build. The little birdies would then fly away to find supplies and return to make improvements. We also had a very wet day on Wednesday, with lots of puddles to explore and play in. Hours of imagination and discovery were spent whilst scooping, pouring, and mixing.
On Thursday and Friday, we began a project that we will work on for the rest of the semester. The students will bring it home before the Winter Break. I have told them that they can leave it as a surprise for their families or they can tell you about it – it is up to them. You will see clues in the messenger pictures over the coming weeks ☺.
This Friday is our winter spiral. This festival occurs near the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. The children silently and reverently walk the spiral with an unlit candle. They meet their teacher in the middle of the spiral to have their candle lit from a larger candle, and then place their candle on a star of their choosing on their silent walk out through the spiral. This touching ritual symbolizes each child giving their own special and unique light to the world, helping guide others in the dark. Families are welcome (and encouraged!) to watch their child’s class walk the spiral. Our walk will begin at 11:15 am. Please arrive with enough time to find a seat at our spiral in the forest (signs will guide your way). Two-day students are invited to join us for the spiral; please meet us in our forest classroom at 11:00 if they will be joining us. They may also join us for cocoa after the spiral, and leave with their family directly following snack. The ingredients of the cocoa are: Oat milk, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, vanilla. If you would prefer your child not participate in the cocoa or bring their own, please let me know.
Reminders:
Friday, December 9th: Turtle Class Winter Spiral at 11:15 am.
Tuesday, December 13th and Wednesday, December 14th, weather permitting, we will roast marshmallows and have s’mores at snack. Please check the email sent by Emily Guth to volunteer to send in the needed ingredients.
Thursday, December 15th: Grades Assembly (12:00-12:30) – Kindergarten parents are welcome to attend, kindergarten classes will not attend or participate
Thursday, December 15th: Last day of Fall semester (Half day, early dismissal)
Friday, December 16th - Wednesday, January 4th : Winter Break
Thursday, January 5th: Spring semester begins
Thank you all for sharing your children with us!
Grace and Peace,
Ki Kim
