Dear EC Families,

Colder temperatures and the possibility of snow are upon us! Our team is looking forward to the truly magical moments of watching our students' joy and connection to nature as they engage in serious play and discovery through constructing, destructing, and frolicking in the beautiful white stuff!

Within our curriculum, this big Jewish idea of the earth as a natural wonder and the practice of blessing natural phenomena is front and center. Even though our ancestors from biblical times were more apt to experience warmer temperatures and snow was probably very rare, we know in modern times it can happen once in a while. In fact, when I was in Israel around this time a few years ago, we experienced light snow falling as we walked in Jerusalem one evening. It truly was an incredible experience that deserved special thanks. 

 “בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה’ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם  עוֹשֶׂה מַעֲשֶׂה בְּרֵאשִׁית”

Blessed are You, lord, our God, King of the Universe, maker of the works of Creation.

As we move into these winter wonderland days, it is important that our students are well prepared to utilize our fabulous outside learning environments. Our EC team works with your children so they can not only be dressed in a way that allows them to be warm and comfortable outside but also allows them to gain independence in getting on and off their own personal gear!

Some of these tips included dressing for success - warm, water-resistant at minimum/waterproof preferred outer layers (jacket and snow pants), wool socks, waterproof mittens (those cute knit ones don't keep little hands dry or warm), sturdy waterproof snow boots, and a warm hat. Please check over your child's winter gear so they can be prepared for long stretches of outside play each day. Labeling those items would also be helpful!

In terms of independence, we use this visual to help our students know what order to put on/take off their gear. You might want to use this, too!

We hope you don't let the fun stop at school! Outdoor play with your child is a great way to survive the winter months as there are endless things to do outside in the winter when your gear helps you stay warm and dry.

We look forward to welcoming you next Thursday for the Hanukkah Music Festival before we all head out for winter break. Wishing you and your family a happy Hanukkah and a wonderful New Year!

Warmly (and I mean that literally!),

Abby Aloni
Head of Early Childhood