December at Fiddlehead: Joy, Community, and Winter's Magic

Looking back at December from the quiet of January, we're filled with warm memories of a month bubbling with excitement and joy at Fiddlehead. Our classroom rang with laughter and celebration as we embraced the festive spirit of the season.

Festive Adventures

Our annual holiday party was a highlight of the month! The children loved cookie decorating and our annual PJ swap. They were attentive and thoughtful, as each patiently waited for their turn to give and receive a gift, all while learning valuable lessons about the joy of giving.

A particularly special moment was our debut in the local Christmas parade. Inspired by Jan Brett's "Gingerbread Baby," our float came alive with children dressed as characters from the story. The excitement was contagious as they waved to the crowd and shared candy canes along the parade route. Parents and teachers alike couldn't help but smile at their enthusiasm and pride.

Winter's Gifts

December offered unique opportunities for sensory exploration and independence. Our young friends engaged their five senses through winter discoveries - exploring touch with ice cubes and warm water, listening to winter birds, comparing and contrasting smells with peppermint, vanilla, and cinnamon, and tasting the warm spices of gingerbread cookies. 

Our beloved "Gingerbread Baby" inspired creative block play as children designed and built their own interpretations of gingerbread houses. Their architectural solutions and collaborative problem-solving showed just how capable young minds can be when given space to create.

A highlight of our classroom life was watching children take ownership of their space through our classroom tree. With great care and delight, they decorated and redecorated the tree throughout the month, each time creating new stories and arrangements. This simple activity became a powerful lesson in decision-making, artistic expression, and respect for shared spaces.

January's Promise

We welcome the new year, and look forward to:

• Exploring light and shadows in our winter woodland

• Studying local wildlife in their winter habitats

• Deepening our understanding of seasonal changes

• Embracing the quiet reflection January brings

"December came with joy and laughter; January beckons with wonder and peace."