Joyful Beginnings Hummingbirds: March 31 - April 4, 2025

Apr 3

Dear Joyful Beginnings Hummingbird Families,

We are so excited to welcome the children back to school! It was wonderful to meet all the lovely families and friends at the Grandfriends’ Tea gathering. The smiles of the delighted grandfriends and the laughter of the little ones sharing their joys lit up the entire forest! Thank you for being a part of this special event, and we look forward to a beautiful rest of the school year!

It feels like before the holidays, our bodies were getting ready for more adventure. Children who once asked for help with the ladder or the stumps now proudly shout, “Look! I can do this now!” They love swinging on the strong vine in our Hummingbird nest, and it was so sweet to see them let their stuffies play on the smaller, lower vines! Most of them can even climb up the goat stand at the farm now. Next stop - the big rock at the farm! It’s incredible to watch them grow, filled with energy and stamina.

At the same time, they are eagerly embracing the quiet moments of the day - whether it’s story time, peaceful walks to the farm listening to birds and spotting turtles and wildflowers, or using calm bodies and soft voices during snack time and quiet play. During intense play or moments when we need to ground ourselves, we’ve been practicing taking a pause for breaths - Clouds go up (inhale), rain comes down (exhale), or blowing dandelions.

It brings them joy now to hear about themselves in stories (told in the third person). A lovely bedtime ritual to introduce at this stage is for the parent to share a story about their day or a special moment from the day. A simple tale of adventure offers a warm and gentle way to end the day.

Ki Pri is so grateful for this special time with the sweet Hummingbirds and deeply appreciates the support and understanding that families have shown her. This week, we welcome back Ki Alycia to lead the Hummingbird class.

The children are happy to return to the forest, and we’re excited for all the adventures that lie ahead!

Announcements and Reminders for Hummingbirds:

Please start packing insect repellent and sun hats in their backpacks.