Greetings!
Fall is a beautiful and exciting time of year with lots to celebrate and even more to learn and discover, which is why we have focused this newsletter on all things FALL!
Fall is a perfect time to become one with nature. So put on your walking shoes and head outdoors, go for a hike, a walk, or a bike ride, check out a local pumpkin patch or go apple picking. Discuss the changes occurring with the weather and the trees. Use this time to teach your child about nature and how it works. Why do the leaves change colour? Why do they fall off the trees? Point to leaves and say the colours to help younger children learn the names of each colour. Practice math and language skills by counting, sorting and naming the trees that the leaves have fallen from. It's a great way for children to learn while having fun!
Thanksgiving
is a wonderful time for families, a time to get together, share a meal and most importantly reflect on the many things to be thankful for. Gratitude is an important concept to teach children but one that is tricky developmentally for toddlers and preschoolers to grasp. One of the best ways to teach gratitude is to model it in everyday conversation, a simple “thank-you for the hug” or “we are so lucky to have time together”. Having children send a thank-you note (or drawing) when children receive gifts or the gift of time with grandparents or friends is another way to teach this important concept.
Halloween
is one of the most anticipated days of the year for many children – it’s hard to pick a favourite part of this day, the pumpkin carving, the dressing up or the trick or treating and the goodies that come with it! It also provides great opportunities for learning, using costumes to fuel creative play and imagination, pumpkin carving is an ideal sensory activity and trick or treating provides an opportunity to discuss safety and restraint!
Remembrance Day
on November 11
th
is an important day that marks the end of the First World War and is a time to reflect and remember all the brave men and women who risked their lives fighting for peace and freedom.
It may be a challenge to explain to young children but can be described as a day to honour those that keep us safe.
With so much to see and do this season, we hope you and your family enjoy the beauty of Fall.
Sincerely,
Lisa Parise
