As we wrap up our last two days before a two week winter break, I am thinking of my fellow directors and teachers. Thank you for the hard work you do every day, the preparations you do to make life wonderful for the tiny humans in your charge, the support you provide to families and the encouragement you offer to each other. Wishing you happy holidays. In the words of Tiny Tim (from A Christmas Carol), “God bless us, every one!”

As we come to the end of this year, we want to pause and say thank you. To the directors holding the big picture while managing a hundred quiet details. To the teachers showing up day after day with patience, creativity, and care—even when it’s hard. Your efforts matter. Even when they go unseen. The way you create safety, stay curious, and choose connection over and over again makes a real difference in children’s lives. We see the heart you bring to this work. We see how much you care. And we are deeply grateful to walk alongside you. As you head into the break, we hope you can rest, exhale, and remember: what you do truly matters. Thank you for being here—and for all you give, every single day.

Welcome @Monica McCurdy , we're so happy to have you join us! Thursdays is typically our free resource day, so take a look in the Classroom under the Playbook Exchange for some resources that might be helpful for you and your staff. We'd love to have you introduce yourself!

Holiday breaks can be wonderful… and also wildly dysregulating for little nervous systems. Transitions, late nights, different routines — all of it adds up. We added a short, teacher-friendly handout that helps families: - keep routines predictable without being rigid - support regulation when emotions run high - make the return to school smoother for everyone It’s designed so teachers can explain it at pickup in under a minute, and families can actually use it (not just read it once and forget it). If your team is looking for a gentle way to support families without adding to teachers’ plates, this is an easy win to share before break. 👉 Find Holiday Break Routines for Little Ones in the Playbook Exchange → Classroom tab Sometimes the smallest, most consistent supports make the biggest difference.

As we head into December transitions, it’s completely normal to see big feelings show up — even in classrooms where things are generally going well. Breaks change rhythms, routines, and expectations, and young nervous systems feel that. One of the most supportive things you can offer right now is a simple, predictable goodbye ritual. Not big plans. Not extra activities. Just consistency and connection. Here’s why it works: - Predictability lowers stress: Short, repeatable rituals tell children, “You’re safe. This is what happens next.” - Closure supports memory: Naming “what we loved” and “what comes next” gives children a simple story to carry through the break. - Previewing reduces worry: A calm “After the break, we’ll…” helps returning feel more manageable. - Small is enough: One consistent goodbye phrase or a simple countdown beats long explanations. - Connection over perfection: Brief, warm moments regulate nervous systems far more than packed plans ever could. Feel free to share what’s working in your school right now — or what you’re noticing showing up for children as routines shift this time of year.