Joyful Beginnings Hummingbirds: March 23 - 27, 2026
Dear Joyful Beginnings Hummingbirds Families,
The children were busy at work and play last week, evidenced by rosy cheeks and restful sighs as we enjoyed our afternoon “in-breath” on the platform after forest free play each day. In Waldorf education, there is a strong emphasis on designing the rhythm of the school day to feel very much like breathing; steady, natural, and intricately balanced. “In-breaths” are often described as moments of drawing inward: quiet, nourishing, and restorative experiences (in early childhood, directed by the adult), such as circle, storytelling, shared snacks/meals, watercolor painting, etc. “Out-breaths” invite expression and expansion, seen in unstructured/imaginative play, running, climbing, digging, and other forms of outdoor exploration.
In the example mentioned above, our large out-breath of forest free play is followed by the class’s “Ladybug Picnic,” which consists of a short fingerplay (song/verse with hand movements), a few well-deserved slices of fresh fruit and vegetables (chopped by the class earlier in the day), and a quiet rest on the platform. The children lie on their backs to observe the sky or forest around them for two to three minutes while teachers sing the same three now very familiar songs each day. Once the group has properly “inhaled,” the children begin their journey out of the forest for the day.
If there are times at home when you notice your child regularly becoming overwhelmed or dysregulated, consider adding a short “in-breath” during that time each day. It could be as simple as singing a familiar song together and sitting or lying in the same place for the duration of the song. Especially during busy or high-energy seasons (such as the beginning of spring), giving children the quiet space needed to absorb, digest, and integrate their experiences is essential.
Amidst all their running and climbing, the children filled out the rest of the week by exploring a new pondside path, exercising the small muscles of the hand through wet felting, watercolor painting with bright orange, and enjoying a farm visit to close the week.
The early part of this week has been filled with buzzing anticipation for Grandfriends’ Day. On Monday, the children enjoyed scrubbing the platform with water and brushes in preparation for our special guests, only to then “leave their mark” on it again with heartfelt chalk decorations. These playful gestures help build a strong foundation for taking pride in one’s space and developing the art of hospitality over time.
We are looking forward to hosting you all for Grandfriends’ Tea and, as we move toward Spring Break, hope each of you enjoys a rich and restful week. The final six weeks of the semester, after the break, will surely be a beautiful time of celebrating your children’s growth, budding friendships, and our beloved forest.
Announcements & Reminders:
If you have not yet turned in your Spring Auction artwork, please do so by the end of this week!
Grandfriends Day is this Wednesday, April 1st! Parents, grandparents, and other special grownups in your child’s life are welcome to join us in our forest classroom for light refreshments and time to enjoy community and watch your children at play! You are also welcome and encouraged to attend the Grade performance at 10:30 am.
April 1: Grandfriends Tea at 11:00 (All students and family members are welcome to join)
April 6-10: Spring Break (No School)
April 24: Annual Auction Fundraiser (Half Day)
April 25: Community Work Day
Warmly,
Ki Alycia
