IMPORTANT DATES AND REMINDERS
4/19: Parent Teacher Conferences (No optional care for 3s and up)
4/22: Earth Day, Elementary Outdoor Experience, PreK-4 Toy Swap
4/24: Epcot Field trip (K-5)
Lower School Highlights
Lower school children dug into fossils and paleontology this week, studying dinosaurs and rock layers in the Earth. 2 chrysalises now hang delicately in the butterfly box, which serves as a living demonstration of plant and animal life cycles. Students also continued their studies of the Everglades, learning about the differences between alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and turtles, as well as how climate and environment interact. Lastly, classes are putting incredible time and effort into constructing pieces for their Project Recycling Runway Show- a celebration of what’s possible when we rethink the way we use everyday materials.
A Note from Kris
3 Signs Your Child is Ready to Stop Napping
In the first 12 months of your baby’s life, nap transitions tend to happen quickly. Your
baby will transition from 5 or 6 naps each day to just 2 naps in their first year! Then, at some point your toddler will transition from 2 naps to just 1.
The age for kids to stop napping varies greatly. Some toddlers stop napping by age 2-3, while other kids will continue to need naps past age 5! However, the average age for kids to stop napping is sometime between age 3 and 4.
Taking Too Long to Fall Asleep at Naptime: Your toddler takes a long time to fall asleep at naptime, and generally does not seem tired when naptime rolls around. This is a classic sign that your toddler may be starting to transition away from her afternoon nap.
Taking Too Long to Fall Asleep at Bedtime: Your toddler takes a long time to fall asleep at bedtime, and generally does not seem tired when bedtime rolls around. This sign often goes together with the previous one.
Skipping Naps: Your toddler skips the afternoon nap entirely but does not show any negative side effects. If your toddler sometimes skips her nap altogether but seems fine (no crankiness, does not seem exhausted by early evening, can go to bed at a reasonable time, etc.), this is a good sign that she is ready to transition away from her afternoon nap.
Upper School Highlights
With Earth Day fast approaching, this week’s Upper School classrooms were fully committed to lessons about nature. Some children painted birdhouses to serve as new homes for the TimberNook birds, while others utilized natural found materials to make a nature-themed mural. Classes also discussed methods for water conservation, and completed a project requiring them to assemble “emergency preparedness” kits, by considering the impacts of climate and weather on human survival.
EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE
Kristen Valletta
“The growth mindset I’ve seen in a lot of these kids has really helped them make giant leaps forward this year”, says Second Grade teacher Kristen Valletta. She continues, “Two different First Grade classes became one Second Grade class, and it’s been amazing watching how easily new friendships have blossomed and grown.” In her eleven years of teaching, Kristen has worked in both private and public schools, and acquired different certifications along the way, including endorsements in both Gifted and ESOL. Of Collage, she says, “A close-knit family feel and a commitment to outdoor socialization really make this school a unique place to be.” She goes on to explain, “Our curriculums allow students to learn through collaboration, which I believe is an incredibly effective way to both teach and learn.” Every day at Collage, Kristen brings her flexibility and easygoing nature into the classroom. Students and school staff alike benefit from her veteran experience and her infectious sense of humor. Thank you, Kristen- Collage wouldn’t be the same without you. |
Summer Camp 2024
Preparations are well underway for Collage’s 2024 Summer Camp, and we’re proud to announce new and exciting expansions to our program. For our youngest, Preschool-aged campers, Camp Collage and TimberNook will be filled with outdoor crafts and activities, as well as weekly on-site field trips with a new theme each week!
For our campers aged 5 and up, along with participation in Camp Collage and TimberNook, new mini-camp choices will be offered, including:
Ballet and Contemporary Dance
Horsin’ Around
Lacrosse
Princess Ballet
Improv
Cheer
In My Summer Era
Track and Field
Color Theory and Art Exploration
Volleyball
Culinary Connoisseurs
Kids Eye View
Marine Biology
Flag Football
Soccer
Roblox
Archery
LEGO
Pickleball
Watercolor Exploration
We can’t wait to see what amazing things our campers create this summer, and we hope to see you all there!
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO SIGN UP:
For direct questions, reach out to Tiffany Clark, at clark@collagedayschool.org
Curriculum Corner: EPCOT!
Next week, Elementary students will travel to Walt Disney World’s EPCOT in Orlando, Florida, for the culmination of their International Unit. The purpose of this trip is to deepen their knowledge of and appreciation for cultures around the world, and to build on their learning from our previous Project-Based Learning unit. EPCOT will provide an immersive experience about traveling the world, with educational activities designed to teach children about stewardship of the Earth. Be sure to catch all the highlights from this exciting day on our Facebook page!
Earth Day Toy Swap
Collage Day School Talent Show!
UNIFORM SALE!
CODE NINJAS IS BACK!
'24-25!
COLLAGE AFTERSCHOOL ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITY:
SOCIAL SKILLS GROUP**
For many children, managing the social world day in and day out eventually presents challenges. Some children may struggle with social flexibility, or sudden frustration, or wanting to engage but just struggling to figure out how. Mandala Family Wellness is proud to offer a group designed to improve children’s confidence, fluidity, and excitement about making and maintaining friendships. Guided by Mandala therapists, children will learn highly effective and applicable social skills to improve their navigation of relationships and bolster their self-esteem.
** Social skills group is now open to 3, 4, and 5-year-olds with our "Little Leaders" program.
To sign up, contact Sierra Sternberg at: sternberg@mandalafamilywellness.com
Staying Healthy with Nurse Chelsea
EARTH DAY
Earth Day is not just about celebrating the planet; it’s also about recognizing the interconnectedness between the health of our environment and our own well-being. Here’s how Earth Day activities can benefit our health:
Clean Air:
·Reduced Pollution: Earth Day initiatives often focus on reducing air pollution through measures such as tree planting, promoting renewable energy, and advocating for clean transportation.
·Health Benefits: Cleaner air leads to reduced respiratory problems such as asthma and lung disease, as well as fewer cases of cardiovascular issues.
Access to Green Spaces:
·Parks and Nature Reserves: Earth Day encourages the preservation and creation of green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
·Physical and Mental Health: Spending time in nature has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and increased physical activity, all of which contribute to better overall health.
Sustainable Food Systems:
·Promotion of Local, Organic Foods: Earth Day raises awareness about sustainable agriculture practices, including supporting local farmers and choosing organic produce.
·Nutritional Benefits: Eating fresh, locally sourced foods can lead to a diet rich in nutrients and antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining good health.
Conservation of Water Resources:
·Water Conservation: Earth Day activities often emphasize the importance of conserving water through measures such as reducing water waste and protecting water sources.
·Hydration and Sanitation: Access to clean, safe water is vital for hydration, sanitation, and preventing waterborne illnesses, contributing to improved health outcomes.
Climate Change Mitigation:
·Reduced Extreme Weather Events: Earth Day efforts to mitigate climate change can lead to fewer extreme weather events such as heatwaves, hurricanes, and floods, which pose significant risks to health.
·Protection from Vector-Borne Diseases: Addressing climate change helps prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, which thrive in warmer temperatures.
Environmental Justice:
·Addressing Inequities: Earth Day highlights the importance of environmental justice, advocating for fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
·Health Equity: By addressing environmental injustices, we can improve the health outcomes of marginalized communities disproportionately affected by pollution and environmental hazards.
Mental Well-being:
·Connection to Nature: Earth Day encourages a deeper connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of awe, wonder, and appreciation for the planet’s beauty.
·Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Spending time in nature and participating in Earth Day activities can promote mindfulness, reduce stress levels, and enhance mental well-being.
