Joyful Beginnings Hummingbirds: August 18-22, 2025
Dear Joyful Beginnings Hummingbird Families,
The children began their school journey last week with curiosity and care. Returning students were delighted to discover the ways their indoor and outdoor classrooms had transformed over the summer. They wasted no time diving into deep, meaningful play; silks became mermaid tails and capes, and the days were already filled with building, cooking, sweeping, singing, and even child-led storytelling with puppets.
New friends were warmly welcomed into the class, and they explored their surroundings with bright eyes and a prudent amount of caution. For some, it was difficult to say goodbye to their grown-ups, but they openly received reassurance and hugs from teachers and soon found their own way into play.
The children enjoyed our first circle songs of the year. They especially connected with a playful verse about the hot summer air as we all waded through the warmth of these late August days:
"It’s hot, it’s hot,
Just like a boiling pot.
The sun is shining oh so bright,
Beaming heat with all its might.
It’s hot, it’s hot,
Just like a boiling pot.
My clothes are sticking to my skin,
The sweat is dripping from my chin,
Time to go for a swim,
It’s hot, hot, hot!"
This week, we will continue singing, playing, and building strong rhythms as the children deepen their sense of belonging with their peers and teachers. They will once again hear the story that was introduced last week - “Nimble and The Gathering Place.” It is a simple, therapeutic tale of a young mouse who journeys across a rocky bridge with his parent to discover a new space filled with other forest children and a forest guide. Already, many of the children have begun repeating the closing line along with the teacher: “Tomorrow, I will go again.” Storytelling is a powerful way to help young children process their experiences - in this case, the transition to a new school environment. Hearing the story again (and again) allows them to weave the images and feelings into their inner world. We will also introduce watercolor painting into our weekly rhythm.
Thank you for sharing your children with us. It has been a joy to watch the Hummingbirds settle into this new year.
Announcements & Reminders:
If you have not yet signed up for a week (or two) to bring in apples for the class, please SIGN UP HERE.
September 1: Labor Day (No School)
September 2: Early Childhood Curriculum Night, 6:00-7:00 pm (adults only, please)
September 3: Grades Curriculum Night, 6:00-7:00 pm (adults only, please)
September 13: Community Work Day
Warmly,
Ki Alycia
