June 2025
As June comes to a close and July begins, we’ve been reflecting on what a full month it has been (but aren’t they all?). Our continent studies wrapped up with Australia—always a favourite! From the unique platypus to boxing kangaroos and adorable koalas, Australia never fails to capture the children’s imaginations. The frilled lizards were a particular hit, especially the way they puff up to appear bigger when threatened. Exploring the diverse wildlife of the Land Down Under was a fun conclusion to our journey through the Southern Hemisphere.
For Father’s Day, the children created thoughtful “soap-on-a-rope” gifts. They tied slices of loofa sea sponges with rope, and placed them into molds. Then, using essential oils (Deep Blue Sea scent), food coloring, and melted glycerin soap, they stirred and poured their own fragrant creations. The results were beautiful, practical, and made with love. We hope every Dad and Grand had a wonderful Father’s Day!
Our annual Teddy Bear Picnic was a cozy, joy-filled event. The children brought their favorite stuffies for an afternoon of songs, stories, and a parade. We transformed the space with beehive lanterns, gingham tablecloths, and a special bear-themed snack: teddy bear-shaped strawberry jam sandwiches, strawberries, blueberries, heart-shaped watermelon slices, and pink lemonade. Snack was topped off with popcorn. Each child also had a keepsake portrait taken at the teddy bear photo booth, which was sent home last week. Throughout the week, we crafted teddy bear collages, practiced lacing, and made tiny picnic baskets. The week ended with a sweet treat—chocolate cupcakes, baked and decorated by the children, tucked neatly into their handmade baskets. So adorable! The Teddy Bear Picnic is always a fun week and a wonderful day for both young and old.
Academically and socially, we continue to be amazed at how much the children are growing. Whether working independently or in small groups, their joy of learning shines through. They’re absorbing new ideas at a remarkable pace, and we’re always introducing new materials to keep things fresh. Although it is wonderful to see how the older activities continue to be favourites. Absorbent minds.
All year round we promote recycling, reusing, composting and not wasting, including food. Miss Grace recently led a baking activity where the children grated apples to make apple bread for snack. It was delicious! Miss Stacy and Miss Ainsley have been turning leftover fruit and yogurt into homemade popsicles. Yummy, refreshing, and healthy, and all are gobbled up on a hot day. We had a lot of leftover fruit from the Teddy Bear Picnic (bulk shopping at Costco), so strawberries and blueberry smoothies will be on the menu in July, along with banana bread (we have a lot of frozen bananas). July will be a busy food and baking month. Fortunately, we have many little hands who love to help and have big appetites. Many hands make light work!
With the warmer weather, we spend more time outdoors, and make more excursions to the local parks and playgrounds, and have stepping stones and other activities in our own playground that focus on motor skills. On these beautiful days, we have all of our meals al fresco. A mirror is set up on the outdoor table for the children to apply sunscreen. Very independent. The children’s second batch of butterflies recently emerged and were released into the wild—a magical moment, made even more special by the warm sunshine.
Welcome to a joyful July!
