Chesterbrook Academy Preschool

“Reading is important, because if you can read, you can learn anything about everything and everything about anything.” - Tomie dePaola

February Newsletter A Note from Our Principal Dear Families, I hope 2026 is off to a wonderful start for you and your family. Here at school, our students have been busy learning, exploring, and building friendships! With Valentine’s Day this month, we’re looking forward to celebrating kindness and caring through fun, age-appropriate activities your children will love. Along the way, we'll also be building important social and emotional skills that support their growth both in and out of the classroom. Sincerely, Black History Month February is Black History Month, a special time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. In our classrooms, children will explore inspiring people and their accomplishments through books, hands-on activities, and meaningful conversations. Valentine’s Day We will be celebrating Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 13th. Children are invited to bring in valentines to share with their classmates and will participate in Valentine-themed activities throughout the day. [Insert school-specific information. Ex: Classroom parties will be held in the morning. Please check your child’s classroom door for additional details] Family Referral Bonus Do you know a colleague who has recently had a baby, a friend in need of care who just relocated to the area, or a family member who is seeking a new preschool for their child? When you refer a friend and they enroll, you’re eligible for a free week of tuition. Ask us for details! Important Dates February 2 – Groundhog Day February 13 – Valentine’s Day celebrations February 16 – School CLOSED for Professional Development Day/Presidents’ Day (if applicable) February 27 – End-of-month folders go home Follow Us on Social Media! https://www.facebook.com/ChesterbrookAcademy https://www.instagram.com/chesterbrookacademy New On Our Preschool Blog Celebrating Diversity and Growing Kindness in Our Preschool Diversity makes our world a beautiful and interesting place, and we believe it should be celebrated from the very start. At our preschool, children learn about the cultures and traditions within our own community, as well as those from around the world. When young children explore both differences and similarities, they begin to understand that while people may look, speak, dress, or live in many ways, we all share the same need for kindness, respect, and connection. Learning about other people and ways of life helps children grow into caring, thoughtful individuals. It builds empathy, encourages curiosity, and teaches respect for others. Below are a few of the ways we bring these important lessons to life in our classrooms each day. Citizens of the World Citizens of the World is the social studies part of our curriculum. Through stories, pictures, discussions, and hands-on activities, children learn about different places, people, and traditions. They explore holidays, family life, and daily routines from cultures around the world. They may taste new foods, listen to folktales, or explore traditional clothing from other countries. These experiences help them build respect for others and understand that every culture has value. Over time, they begin to see themselves as part of a larger world. Classroom Spaces That Reflect Every Child Our classrooms are designed to help every child feel seen and valued. Our libraries include books that reflect families of many backgrounds and ways of life. Children often create class books about their families, and photos from home are proudly displayed on our walls. When children recognize their own lives and cultures in the classroom, it helps build confidence and a strong sense of belonging. It also teaches them that while families may be different, love and care look the same everywhere. These simple touches help create a warm, inclusive community where every child feels welcome. Learning Through the Creative Arts Dramatic Play - In our dramatic play centers, children use their imaginations to explore the world. They dress up, take on new roles, and work together to act out real-life experiences. One day, this space might become a kitchen where students make tamales, another day an igloo in the Arctic, a Native American wigwam, or a stage for sharing important messages like those of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.! Art - Our students learn about artists from many cultures and time periods, such as Alma Thomas and Vincent van Gogh. They explore different art techniques and use a variety of materials and tools to create and express their ideas. For example, they might make clay pots with play dough after learning about Japanese Raku or paint water lilies inspired by Claude Monet’s work. Students sometimes create art while listening to music from around the world, allowing the sounds to influence their art. Music - Music is a joyful way to explore culture. Children dance to songs from different countries and try instruments from around the world. You might hear maracas shaking during a lesson about Mexico or drums playing as children learn about African music traditions. Sharing Stories and Building Understanding During morning and afternoon circle time, children talk about what makes them special. They share stories about their families, favorite foods, holidays, and daily routines. Listening to one another helps children learn to respect different experiences and feel proud of their own. Growing Kind Hearts and Open Minds When children learn about people and cultures from around the world, they become more curious and open to new ideas. They practice sharing, listening, and working with others who may be different from them. They begin to see that every person brings something special to the world. To learn more about how we bring the world into our classrooms, contact us today!

A Note from Our Principal Dear Families, I’d like to express my sincere appreciation for the kindness you shared throughout the holidays. Your generosity meant so much to our teachers and administrative team, and made the season feel extra special for us. We are equally grateful for your involvement in our Holiday Giving initiative. We collected over 80 gifts for children in need in the area! As we step into the new year, I’m filled with excitement for all that’s ahead for our school community. Sincerely, Patti Fleig Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. This month, we’re excited to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Our classrooms will take part in meaningful activities, including reading inspiring stories and talking about kindness, fairness, and how we can help make the world a better place. We’re looking forward to sharing these important lessons with our students. Please note that we will be closed on Monday, January 19th, in observance of MLK Day. Save the Date! We are hosting two Open House events in January, featuring our theme “Around the World”! Spread the word and invite your friends and family to join us on: Thursday, January 8 from 4 – 6 PM Saturday, January 10 from 10 AM – 12 PM Family Referral Bonus Do you know a colleague who has recently had a baby, a friend in need of care who just relocated to the area, or a family member who is seeking a new preschool for their child? When you refer a friend and they enroll, you’re eligible for a free week of tuition. Our January Open House events are the perfect time to take advantage of this opportunity. Ask us for details! Important Dates January 1 – School CLOSED for New Year’s Day January 8 - Open House 4 – 6 PM January 10 - Open House 10 AM - 12 PM January 19 – School CLOSED for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day January 30 – End-of-month folders go home Follow Us on Social Media! Follow us on social media for an inside look at our schools! https://www.facebook.com/ChesterbrookAcademy https://www.instagram.com/chesterbrookacademy New On Our Preschool Blog Don't Forget About YOU: The Importance of Parent Self-Care Being a parent or caregiver is incredibly rewarding, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. We all want to show up as our best selves for our kids, and when life gets busy, it becomes harder to stay patient and present. As we head into a new year, we want to gently remind you that taking time for yourself is not selfish; it’s essential. Even small moments to reset and recharge can make a meaningful difference. To help spark ideas, we’ve put together a list of simple self-care tips for parents and caregivers. Leave your house Leaving the house can feel like a lot of work with packing snacks, coats, diapers, and more, but it’s worth it. A quick trip to the store or a coffee shop can give you a much-needed change of scenery. Go for a walk Fresh air and nature work wonders. Walking boosts your mood, energizes your body, and clears your mind. Even if it’s chilly, bundle up and go for a short stroll. You're sure to feel a difference! Enjoy down-time When you get a break, try not to fill it with chores or work. Instead, use some of those moments to rest or do something that relaxes you, such as reading, watching a show, or enjoying a favorite hobby. When you find quiet moments in the morning before everyone wakes up or in the evening after bedtime, use them for reflection, gratitude, planning your day, or simply taking a breath and easing into (or out of) your day. Make time for relationships Schedule date nights with your partner and time with friends. Spending time with the people you love helps you feel connected and supported. Even a short getaway can lift your spirits and strengthen the relationships that matter most. Pamper yourself What are some little things that bring you joy? A coffee shop beverage? Getting your nails done? Watching the game on TV? While these things may seem minor, they can really boost your mood! Prioritize sleep Sleep deprivation can affect mood and safety. Make sleep a priority so your body has time to rest and recover. If possible, share nighttime duties with another caregiver so both of you get rest. When your child is sleeping, it’s okay for you to rest, too! While it may be tempting to stay up late watching TV or scrolling social media, you’ll likely feel the effects the next day. Our bodies need sleep for overall health, so honor that need whenever you can. Find a preschool you can trust When you know your child is in good hands, you can enjoy the day knowing your child is safe and loved. This allows you time to focus on work, the house, and you! While your child is at school, use that time in ways that benefit you. Trust your gut It’s common for other people to offer advice on how they think you should raise your child, whether it’s about sleep routines, food choices, or screen time. Often, these suggestions come from good intentions and a desire to be helpful. Remember that what works well for one family may not be the right fit for yours. Do your research, trust your instincts, and make decisions that fit your family’s needs. Notice and enjoy the moments Your children are only little once. If you find yourself in a challenging time, try to reframe it. Acknowledge their age and how their actions fit the stage they're in. Learn to appreciate what each age offers… the cuddles of a baby, the wonder of a toddler, the determination of a 2-year-old, and the silly antics of preschoolers. Each of these fleeting stages has its own magic. Make this year count. Know that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your children. Small moments of rest, fun, and connection can help prevent parent burnout and keep you energized for the rewarding, messy, and wonderful work of parenting. You deserve it!