Monday 3 April 2017

April Newsletter

Happy Spring, Douglas Park families!

It seems like we blinked, and March flew by in a flash.  We hope that everyone had a wonderful Spring Break!  As much as the teachers enjoyed their break, we have been so happy to see everyone's smiling faces back in the classrooms this week.



 April Reminders

Professional Development Day: Tuesday, April 4th.


Easter : There will be no classes in session on Friday, April 14th and Monday, April 17th.


4 Year Old Graduation Photos:  Friday, April 21st.




Rain gear:  April showers have been upon us early this year, as we are sure you've noticed! As we eagerly await those May flowers, just a reminder to send along weather appropriate outdoor clothing for your child.  We do go out almost every day, rain or shine  If it is heavy rain, we limit our outside time, but still do go out.

 Sometimes, we go on nature walks in the rain, asking exploratory questions like: How do things look different when they are wet? How many worms can we find?  What happens to soil when we add water?  Will a leaf float to the ground when it is wet?  Can you hear the sound of our feet on the wet ground? What about cars driving by...what sound do they make when the road is wet?  Other times, we encourage the children to explore their familiar outdoor environment with the added element of water.  For example, digging channels in the sand and creating waterways for small boats to float; creating mudpie masterpieces and engaging in creative imagination while we talk about what ingredients we could add. Not to mention the social element of co-operative play when the children work together to create a Mudpie Bakery, and invite others to come try the pies!

Our teachers believe that children's learning environments extend far beyond the classroom.  Rainy days (of which we have many here on the Westcoast!) are an opportunity to engage in relevant sensory play and to further explore the magic of your child's imagination and wonderment about the world around them.  We work hard to give them opportunities to play and learn, as well as create lasting memories to take with them on their journey through childhood!

Please help us by sending your child with: Rain gear (jackets and rain pants), rubber rain boots, and extra socks. 

Click here to view a recent study on outdoor exploration

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