🏫 Graduation Day – Friday, June 20

The moment is almost here! On Friday, June 20, our preschoolers will shine in graduation caps as they prepare to journey on to kindergarten next year. How remarkable their growth has been—from sleepy January mornings to shining June smiles.

From last year to this:

• In September, shy new friends learned to sing together and share.
• By June, they are storytellers, pirates, astronauts, caregivers to ladybugs, and confident thinkers.
• They’ve grown independence, curiosity, and community spirit through every activity—particularly thanks to the warmth of our co‑op model, where families pitched in, teachers guided gently, and imaginations soared.

✨ Springtime May–June 2025

We played under warm sunshine at our end‑of‑year family picnic on June 8. Little adventurers ran through the meadow, giggling as they built fairy‑stone towers and shared snacks with friends and parents—our playground felt like a grand festival of togetherness!

🌷 Spring Frolic March–April 2025

The sun returned, and so did our butterfly hunts and puddle‑splashing expeditions! Tiny explorers discovered ladybugs, painted dandelion crowns, and danced in blossom‑strewn forests in our imaginations.

☠️ February Adventures

Pirate fever hit the preschool! The children became fearless buccaneers searching for treasure, mapping secret routes, and unearthing “gold” in our sandbox. Shouts of “Ahoy!” and “X marks the spot!” echoed with delight.

🚀 January Journeys

Our preschool became a launchpad for little astronauts exploring space! We learned about stars, built cardboard rockets, and floated cotton‑cloud planets above our heads—all while settling back into classroom magic.

🎉 Let’s Celebrate!

Come Friday, we’ll cheer as these preschoolers step forward—caps swaying, hearts full, ready for the big playgrounds and classrooms of kindergarten. It’s been a year of play‑powered learning, and these kids are absolutely ready for the adventures ahead. 🌟

End of the year at our beloved preschool!

🧺 SVP Family Picnic – Sunday, June 8, 11:00–2:00
Join us for a celebration picnic! Bring your blanket, your lunch, and your smiles. Don’t forget to stop by Lisa Woo’s Discovery Toys booth—20% of sales will support the preschool.

📣 AGM – Tuesday, June 10 at 6:45 PM
This is our final meeting of the year and an important one! We’ll vote on the 2025/26 budget, elect new executive members, and start dreaming up next year’s fun. Your voice matters—see you there!

🌸 The Last Month at Strawberry Vale 🌸
The sunshine is dancing through our playground, the sandbox is alive with dinosaur footprints and pizza parties, and the sound of giggles floats like dandelion seeds on the breeze. The last month of school is here, and oh, what a magical time it’s been!

🐣 EGG-citing News!
A baker’s dozen of fluffy little chicks have hatched in our classroom! That’s right—13 chirpy cuties are peeping, hopping, and delighting everyone who visits the “chick run.” The children have been busy naming them, watching them waddle, and gently peeking in on their feathery antics. Siblings are welcome to take a look too at drop-off and pick-up! They’ll be with us for about a week and a half before heading to their new home.

🐸 Tadpole Time
Not to be outdone, our aquarium tadpoles have started to move and grow legs! We’re observing miracles of nature right in front of our eyes. These little swimmers will soon be ready to hop into their forever home outdoors—what a gift to watch the life cycle unfold together.

🎭 Imaginative Play Adventures
The play has been extra magical lately. Some of us are preparing for “moving day,” packing up dollhouse furniture and pulling “moving trucks.” Others are setting off on high-seas adventures, driving boats powered by broom-and-shovel paddles with tunnels off the bow to get you right to the water!

🪵 Leveling Up in the Yard
Jumping stump to stump? Too easy! So we added bridges and blocks for a challenge course!
While this challenge went on, some children drew race routes around the slide with chalk—plenty of false starts and triumphant photo finishes.

🛒 Red House Pizza is Open for Business!
This week we designed signage, planned menus, and even delivered pizza to a wedding party. Speaking of weddings—yes, we had two wedding dances! The wedding crew flew off on a plane with free pizza on board, of course.

🧸 Dramatic Play Moments
Feeding babies, waiting patiently at the doctor’s office, Sunday drives, forest tea parties… and lots of note-taking on pretend phones as the wedding planners made sure every detail was just right.

🌲 Into the Forest & Into the Sunshine
Our Bears class has started heading into the forest—learning the boundaries, exploring the creek, and getting ready to be next year’s Ladybugs, who enjoy weekly Forest Fridays! Meanwhile, our current Ladybugs are pros at “forest concoctions”—soups, stews, teas and potions galore.

🎨 Outdoor Crafts & Letter Learning
Craft time has moved outdoors to soak up the sunshine! The letter A even made a guest appearance, surrounded by growing kids with growing minds.

👟 Backpack & Footwear Reminders
Double-check those backpacks: extra clothes should fit, match the season, and be ready for splashy play! Please no flip-flops. Runners or strapped sandals with socks are best for safe running and climbing.

🧹 Summer Floor Makeover
As the school year wraps up, our incredible community of parents will help empty the classrooms so a sparkling new floor can be installed. Thank you to everyone lending hands and hearts to make our space feel brand new.

💗 A Mother’s Day Hug
To all the mothers and caregivers in our community—we hope your day was as sweet as spring sunshine. Your love is the heartbeat of our little school.

As the days fly by, we’ll hold tight to our friendships, even as some of us get ready for kindergarten. Wherever we go next, we’ll carry a little bit of Strawberry Vale magic with us.

💫 See you in the forest, at the pizza shop, or floating down the broom-paddle river.

🌸✨ Springtime at Strawberry Vale ✨🌸

It finally feels like spring! The sun came out and we spent even more time outside, soaking it all in. Some kids raced around the yard with their jackets flying behind them like superhero capes, and even the grown-ups seemed a little happier in the warm weather.

Even though some days were dry, we still needed our boots. The water barrel is full again, and it didn’t take long for kids to start building rivers, lakes, and little muddy cities in the sandpit. Extra clothes definitely came in handy — no matter how sunny it was, there was always at least one puddle that was just too tempting to resist.

Our parents got to attend a talk with Shelin Hussein about “Why Is This Happening and What Can I Do About It?” — all about understanding tricky behaviours and helping us through big feelings. It’s nice knowing our parents are learning new ways to help us when things feel hard.

🐻 In Bears Class:
We got messy this week — in the best way! We explored goop made from cornstarch and water. It was so strange to touch — not quite a liquid, not quite a solid — and everyone was fascinated by how it changed when we moved it around. We also tried working with clay, rolling and shaping it into little sculptures with a bit of water and a lot of concentration.
The loft stayed busy with kids reading stories, while others made their own books at the art table. Building with blocks and puzzles kept our hands busy too, figuring out which pieces fit and which ones definitely didn’t!

🐸 In Tadpoles Class:
The hula hoops came out, and it was incredible to watch all the different ways kids found to play with them. Some spun them around their waists, some rolled them across the yard like wheels, and others turned them into steering wheels or houses.
It’s always fun seeing how everyone plays on their own but still connects in small ways — sharing ideas, copying new tricks, and cheering each other on.

🌻 Around Preschool:
We also planted our sunflower seeds this week. Every child got a pot, some soil, and a seed to take home and grow. We heard a lot of big plans about how tall they were hoping their sunflowers would get! In our SVP Flower Shop, kids have been busy with weddings — complete with bouquets, music, and lots of dancing.

👒 Spring Reminders:

• Please send hats and sunglasses, and remember to label them!
• Sunscreen needs to be applied before school; if you want staff to reapply in the afternoon, there’s a permission form.
• Rain pants (or muddy buddies) are still a good idea — the water barrel is just too much fun to ignore, and extra clothes are definitely needed.

🚂 In the afternoons, the blue tunnel became a train, taking kids on adventures all around the yard. There were lots of passengers and lots of laughter.

🍔 Fundraising Reminder:
Burger & Beer Night is coming up Sunday, May 4th at The Rack Bistro in Langford! Music bingo, prizes, and a fun night out for the grown-ups — plus it helps support our school!

Spring has brought new adventures every day — in the mud, in the sunshine, and in all the little ways we learn and grow together.

🐣 And exciting news…
We’re hatching chicks in our classroom! The eggs are tucked safely in the incubator, and now we’re practicing the hardest part: being patient. Every day we check in to see if there are any little cracks. It won’t be long now before we have some fluffy new friends to welcome!

Important Dates! Don’t forget!

Sunday May 4, Burger & Beer night! Please don’t wait to pick up your tickets! They are available at the preschool, so come prepared at drop-off or pick-up! Etransfer in advance to fundraising.strawberry@gmail.com

Please sign up at preschool for Year End Picnic which is June 8th 11-2 – sign up sheet is on the bulletin board on the inner door to the classroom

🌟 Adventures at SVP: A Whirlwind of Play, Discovery & Pirate Treasure! 🏴‍☠️✨

Oh, the places we’ve been and the worlds we’ve built in these past few weeks! If you step into SVP, you’ll find a world bustling with adventure—one moment, we’re running the busiest grocery store in town, the next, we’re racing through zip tracks, splashing colors onto snowy landscapes, and even setting sail on pirate ships in search of GOLD! 🛒🎨🏴‍☠️

🔴 SVP Grocery Store: A Local Favorite!
Step right up, grab your shopping list, and fill your cart! The Ladybug class transformed our grocery store into a festive celebration for Chinese New Year, making it the most happening shop in town. Our cashiers worked tirelessly, customers browsed for the best deals, and our shelves were stocked with everything from playdough pastries to plastic pineapples. And let’s not forget the Dragon Dance! Our fire-breathing, ribbon-twirling creation swirled around the room in a dazzling parade of color and joy. 🐉🛍️

🏎️ Racing Through Play!
The zip track racetracks zoomed across our space, winding and weaving to make room for all! Our cars sped down the ramps, laughter echoing through the room as we cheered them on. With every twist and turn, we built friendships, shared excitement, and made sure everyone had a chance to play.

❄️ Snow, Ice, and Colorful Creations!
Oh, what a magical time we’ve had with the snow! When it was fluffy, we painted it blue at the touch table indoors; when it turned to ice, we collected giant chunks and loaded up our wagons. And then, of course, there was tobogganing! Wheee! Down the slopes we slid, faster than ever, while our construction trucks worked hard to clear the roads. It was a winter wonderland full of color, movement, and frosty fun! ⛄🎨

💖 A Whole Lot of LOVE!
February was sprinkled with hearts, glitter, and kindness! Our mailboxes overflowed with special valentines, red and pink gems sparkled in the sand table, and our playdough bakers whipped up heart-shaped cakes and cookies. But the sweetest treat of all? Decorating (and devouring!) our own heart-shaped cookies. Yum! 💕🍪

🏴‍☠️ A Pirate’s Life for Us!
Ahoy, mateys! Our preschool crew set sail on a grand pirate adventure! We crafted hats, made treasure maps, and searched high and low for golden riches. Rats and cannonballs? Aye, they were part of the fun too! The excitement was so contagious, we had to declare an official Dress Like a Pirate Day! Striped shirts, sashes, and bandanas took over the classroom as we lived out our swashbuckling dreams. Even our teachers and duty parents joined in—because at SVP, the fun is for everyone! 🌊💰

🌳 Leaping, Climbing & Hanging Around!
Outside, the fresh air filled our lungs as we climbed onto tree stumps, balanced through our fairy circle, and leaped into adventure. Inside, our hands were hard at work stacking blocks, piecing together puzzles, and creating marvelous marble runs. Whether jumping high or focusing in, every movement helped us grow stronger, braver, and more confident in what our hands and bodies can do. 💪🌟

And let’s not forget Teacher Gail’s Monkeys in the Tree game! Oh, what a hit! Friends swung, climbed, and giggled, holding on as long as they could before dropping into fits of laughter.

It has been a season of joy, challenge, creativity, and connection at SVP. Whether we’ve been painting snow, baking love-filled treats, racing, climbing, or setting sail on the high seas, we’ve been PLAYING—and sometimes, as we’ve learned, play isn’t always easy. Towers collapse, games get tricky, and feelings can get big. But here, we know that we are big enough to handle it. With a little resilience, a lot of support, and a dash of preschool magic, we keep growing, learning, and laughing together.

Until the next adventure,
SVP Explorers 🚀💫

Back to Class from Strawberry Vale Preschool! 🎉

Welcome back, preschool families! We hope you had a joyful and restful holiday season, filled with cozy moments and magical memories. As we step into the new year, we are so excited to see our Little Red Schoolhouse buzzing with laughter, curiosity, and adventure once again.

Back to Preschool!

📅 Preschool reopens:

• Bears & Tadpoles: Tuesday
• Ladybugs & Frogs: Wednesday

The children were thrilled to reunite with their friends, and the excitement was contagious! There’s nothing quite like watching their faces light up as they step back into their world of play, learning, and discovery.

Backpack Check! ✨

Our little explorers have been busy growing! Please take a moment to check if their spare clothes and indoor shoes need an update. And don’t worry—we’ll give you a friendly nudge when we start seeing rain pants creeping up to mid-calf!

Show & Tell Time! 🧸

After all the holiday fun, the children are eager to share their special treasures. While we love seeing their excitement, we encourage personal toys to stay home outside of designated Show & Tell days—unless they are happy to share and understand the possibility of things getting lost or broken.

A Warm Welcome! 👋

A big Strawberry Vale welcome to our newest friend joining the Tadpole program! Let’s all take a moment to introduce ourselves to him and his family. It’s extra special to have a grandchild of one of our preschool alumni here—our community truly comes full circle.

A Heartfelt Thank You! 💖

🌸 To our amazing families: Thank you for your thoughtful staff gifts, cards, and kind messages. Your generosity means the world to us!

🧹 To our Dream Team Cleaning Crew: WOW! You rocked the Winter Cleaning! The preschool is sparkling, and we are so grateful. (And yes, we’re just a tiny bit jealous that Teacher Jen was enjoying warm sunshine in Mexico!)

Parent Education & Meetings 📚

Our January Parent Education speaker, Dr. Jean Buckler, gave an insightful talk on Physical Literacy—helping little bodies grow strong and confident.

🔹 Parent-Teacher Meetings (Jan/Feb): Meetings are optional, unless requested by a teacher. If you’d like a quick 15-minute check-in, please email teachers.strawberry@gmail.com to schedule a time.

Winter Fun & Learning at Preschool ❄️

Before the break, we had a gingerbread adventure like no other! We read different versions of the story, acted it out on the felt board, and even went on a gingerbread hunt after he “escaped” from the oven. (Spoiler alert: We found him… and he was delicious!)

🚀 Blast Off! Our preschool turned into outer space with a rocket loft and astronaut gear! Whether creating “everlasting snow,” building snowmen at the felt board, or launching into imaginary galaxies, the kids had a blast.

🔬 Messy Science! Cornstarch + colored water = magic! The children discovered a substance that’s both solid and liquid—science is always a hit!

📦 Big Box, Big Imagination! Thanks to a generous family, we had a huge cardboard box that transformed into everything from a car to a ship to a cozy house. It’s amazing to see creativity come to life with something so simple.

Preschool Library Program 📖

Each child now has a “book bag” to borrow books from our preschool library. Help them keep their bag in a safe spot at home to return books in good condition. One book at a time, please! (And let’s keep them away from snack-time mishaps—no dog-eaten books, please! 😉)

Chinese New Year Celebrations! 🏮🐉

To celebrate, we’ve added:
🎎 Traditional dress-up clothing
🥢 Cooking utensils & play food
📚 Books & decorations honoring Chinese culture

Outdoor Play Reminders 🌧️

Even with the rain taking a break, the grass, park, and forest are still damp. Please send your child with rubber boots so we can go on spontaneous outdoor adventures!

Fundraising Alert: Seed Sale! 🌱

Our seed fundraiser runs until February 14th. Pick up an order form from the preschool and return it with payment by Feb 14 to support our programs!

💛 Thank you for being part of our wonderful preschool community. We’re looking forward to all the joy, play, and learning ahead in 2024!

— The Strawberry Vale Preschool Team 🍓✨

Happy New Year!

We hope you all enjoyed the holiday season and found time to relax and celebrate with loved ones.

As a cooperative preschool, Strawberry Vale is our school—built on the support and participation of our families. If there’s anything you’d like to discuss or new ideas you’d like us to try, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Meadow Dyke at president.strawberry@gmail.com.

Winter Activities Are Here!

Though snow hasn’t made an appearance, the chilly air has set the perfect stage for our winter-themed activities. In the sensory table, we’re exploring gingerbread men, while craft time this week featured snowmen and other blue and white decorations on clear plates—perfect for brightening up your mantle at home!

Music has been a big hit during circle time, with instruments and cheerful songs bringing joy to all our Tadpoles.

Reminder: Enrollment Deadline Approaching

Priority enrollment for next year is open to existing families until January 15th. Make sure to submit your forms before the deadline to secure your spot.

Stay warm and happy learning!

With love and laughter,
The Preschoolers of Strawberry Vale

A Week of Wonder and Adventure at Strawberry Vale Preschool

Oh, the things we’ve seen, done, and imagined this week at preschool! With Teacher Gail off adventuring in Mexico, we made sure to fill every moment with fun, laughter, and a sprinkle of magic.

The Weather Whisperers and Leaf Town Adventures

When the week began with rain, we were sure to say hello to every raindrop before the clouds made way for sunshine. And guess what? A real rainbow appeared over our little playhouse—like a magical bridge to another world! The windy days turned our yard into “Leaf Town,” where swirling leaves became treasures to catch, wheelbarrows became leaf-collectors, and—of course—those treasures turned into the biggest jumping pile ever!

Dinosaurs stomped through the leaves (because why wouldn’t they?), and some of us declared ourselves mayors of Leaf Town. We’re still debating who has the best dinosaur roar.

Explosive Science and Pumpkin Painting

The science table bubbled and fizzed with baking soda, vinegar, and a splash of color. It was like creating tiny, magical volcanoes! Later, shaving cream joined the party, turning the explosions into the fluffiest eruptions we’ve ever seen.

Over in the art area, leftover pumpkins became tools of creativity. Who needs brushes when you can paint with pumpkin chunks? We even hammered golf tees into pumpkins—what a satisfying thunk!

Forest Friday: Owls, Rivers, and Rolling Rocks

Forest Friday brought all kinds of surprises! With the rains finally filling up our forest river, we tested boats to see which ones could float the fastest. A few of us tried rolling rocks down a steep hill, and then someone asked, “Which shapes roll the best?” That started a whole adventure of testing and exploring circles, squares, and even lumpy shapes.

The most magical moment came when we whispered “good morning” to the forest and listened for its reply. That’s when we saw it—a wise old owl perched high above us, watching over our play. It felt like a secret gift from the forest.

Trains, Campfires, and Creepy Crawly Creations

Our visit to the trains was unforgettable! The slow trains became speedy after an engine switch, and between rides, we enjoyed bubbles, mini golf, and a wacky eyeball spoon race. The hot dogs were a hit too (almost as popular as the trains themselves).

Back at school, we imagined our own campfires, roasting invisible marshmallows and laughing about how melted shoes are never a good idea. Indoors, we got messy with chia pudding dough (not quite solid, not quite liquid—it’s pure magic!) and let creepy spiders crawl through shaving cream mountains. Someone even made “bat soup” with cornmeal and googly eyes!

Building, Sharing, and Helping Hands

Tower building with blocks and working on puzzles showed us how great teamwork can be. Our friends with the steadiest hands and brightest ideas built tall towers, while others created a stepping-stone path out of wooden blocks.

And speaking of teamwork, wiping the morning dew off the slide became a group effort! With squeegees in hand, we all worked together to make sure the slide was ready for action. It felt good to pitch in—and it was even more fun sliding down afterward!

A Very Busy Vet Hospital

This week, the SVP Pet Hospital was bustling! Our team of tiny vets cared for stuffed animals with great care, checking heartbeats, applying bandages, and giving “shots” to help them feel better. Some pets even got “x-rays” (drawn with chalk, of course).

Moments of Magic and Connection

This week reminded us how much we can do when we work, play, and imagine together. Whether it was attaching clothespins to a line (so satisfying!), reading quietly in a group, or crafting spooky fall shapes with cork boards and paint, every moment felt like an adventure.

Parents, don’t forget to update spare clothes as the weather keeps surprising us! Layers, rain gear, and extra mittens are perfect for these unpredictable fall days.

Here’s to more leaf piles, forest discoveries, and imaginative play next week!

With love and laughter,
The Preschoolers of Strawberry Vale

Peek into Ladybugs’ Week: Apples, Apples, and More Apples! 🍏🍎

This week, we took a magical dive into all things apple! Thanks to Alexander and his family from the Bear class, we had a whole pile of fresh apples ready for adventure. With little fingers wrapped around peelers and big, focused eyes, we began peeling under Teacher Rhian’s watchful gaze—making a few curly-cue apple skins along the way. Then came the chopping, with the apples going plop! right into the pot, ready to be stirred and turned into applesauce.

And guess what? Some of us LOVED the applesauce—it tasted like a cozy apple hug. But some of us took one taste and said, “Hmm, maybe just one bite!” And that’s okay. Who knows what tasty adventure will be next?

Peek into Frogs’ Week: Playground Adventures and Hide-and-Seek Shenanigans 🐸

This week, the Frogs class journeyed to the big kids’ playground for the afternoon! There, we giggled our way down the twisty slide and had plenty of fun bouncing around in every direction. When we got back to our own yard, it was time for a game of hide-and-seek. The best part? When we told our teachers, “YOU go hide!” There weren’t too many hiding spots, so we had to get extra creative. “If I can’t see you, you can’t see me!” became the motto. Some of us hid behind a ball, others under the table, and a few even on top of it, with eyes squeezed shut!

To top off the week, we celebrated Dinosaur’s fourth birthday with a cake piled high with candles—so many wishes to make!

The Joy of Building Together 🚂

Last week was packed with teamwork and creativity. From building tall towers and sorting colors to putting on puppet shows and creating an epic wooden block stepping-stone path, there was never a dull moment. Working together like this helps us become better friends, share big ideas, and imagine brand-new games.

Our grand train adventure brought even more excitement! After a few slow choo-choos, we had a thrilling switch and got things moving. Bubbles floated everywhere, mini golf became a hilarious challenge, and the eyeball spoon race made us all laugh till our tummies hurt. Hot dogs and cheers made it a perfect day to share with our preschool friends and families.

Circle Time and the Mystery of Felt Stories 🎶

Circle time has been full of magical moments, with musical instruments filling the air and felt stories bringing tales to life! Felt stories are like puzzles that we build, piece by piece, while we listen to stories. Sometimes, we get to add our own pieces right in the middle of a story, making it feel like our own little world. Later, when we’re playing on our own, we can retell the story using the same fuzzy felt pieces, like magic in our hands.

And let’s not forget our egg surprise this week! Cracking open an egg to find the surprise hidden inside was so exciting—it felt like finding a mini treasure while giving our fingers a fine-motor workout.

Here’s to Another Fun Week Ahead!

With lots of giggles, stories, and treats behind us, we can’t wait to see what new adventures Tuesday will bring.

 Message From Gail:

Hello families

I hope everyone that made it out to VIME enjoyed themselves riding the trains and having an opportunity to connect with other families. Another such opportunity is coming up soon at our Burger Beer night…don’t miss out thinking this is just a fundraiser…it is so much fun! Music bingo, a chance to socialize with fellow parents without the littles in tow…good time will be had by all, get your tickets and check out the online auction.

Halloween: At preschool we do not do costumes from home please… but we will have a wear black and orange, festive T’s and/or Fun Hat day on October 30th and 31st.

Why no costumes: Not everyone celebrates Halloween, some children are nervous about folks in costume, they are a hazard on the playground, they are tricky to navigate toileting (15 kiddos in costumes at potty time…yikes) and costumes get ruined and accessories get lost. Thanks for your understanding and be sure we will be exploring all sorts of alternative fun fall activities with your kiddos.

Welcome Back parents and Learners! September is over and now we’re onto October season. Here are a few of our adventures.

🍂 Forest Adventures: Fishing and Puddles 🎣🌲💦
One of our favorite outdoor escapades this month was fishing in the forest! After the rains, our “river” was full of blue, rainbow, red, and green fish. Some of us crafted soups with sticks and leaves, while others couldn’t resist splashing in the biggest puddles we could find. What a way to explore the wild!

🍏 Apple Sauce and Bear Stories 🐻🍎🎶
Snack time turned into a group project when we made apple sauce together! We peeled, chopped, and enjoyed the fruits of our labor. At circle time, Teacher Gail sang apple-themed songs, and our bears got creative, lining up for different adventures like “The Movies,”, ” the forest”, “a sneaky pee,” “Disneyland rides,” and even Bear stew!

✨ Flyers and Chestnut Fun 🌰🌀🐿️
On sunny days, we dashed through the field chasing flyers—spinning disks that zoomed high into the sky! We also collected shiny chestnuts after Teacher Jen gave a tree a good shake. Now, those chestnuts are part of our yard play. So much running and laughter filled our afternoons!

🎭 Classroom Adventures: Puppet Shows and Block Trains 🚂🌭🛒
Inside the classroom, creativity ran wild! We hosted puppet shows, built a wooden block train that took us shopping at Walmart, and roasted pretend hotdogs over imaginary campfires. And of course, the mud kitchen kept us busy whipping up lots of delicious pretend meals.

🎨 Tadpoles Painting Project 🖌️🌈🎨
In the Tadpoles class, we experimented with painting on the fence canvas! Getting those dry paint pucks to work was tricky, but we mastered the right mix of water and swirling. Watching the colors come to life was so satisfying—everyone loved contributing to the masterpiece!

💚 Settling Into Routines 👟🍽️🔄
Throughout all the fun, we’ve been learning our new routines: putting on indoor shoes, participating in circle time, cleaning up after snacks, and getting ready for outdoor play. We’re starting to settle into the rhythm of preschool life—and it’s been an exciting first month!

📸 Reminder:
Photo Day is Wednesday, October 9th. Don’t forget to return your photo order envelopes ASAP!

🚂 Reminder:
Train ride day is Wednesday October 16th at Vancouver Island Model Engineers Heritage Acres.  All classes  event *one parent must stay with their child at this event

9:30 – 12:00

🌟 Discover the Delights of Our Recent Weeks at SVP Preschool! 🌟

Hello Families! 🌸💌

As we approach the end of the school year, here are some updates:

• Chickens: Our chickens have gone to their forever homes, but we still have tadpoles and caterpillars to care for!
• Graduation: Details have been sent out in your weekly newsletter. Graduation is on June 21st, from 9-12. The school year finishes after graduation.
• Picnic: The picnic was a huge success! Thank you everyone for coming.
• Strawberry Festival: Join us on July 7th for a fun day at our booth. We need volunteers to talk about our preschool. Sign up at school or email teachers.strawberry@gmail.com.
• Amazon Boxes: We need small boxes for our imagination station. If you have any to spare, please bring them in!

Big Buddies Visit! 🐥👫

We had an exciting visit from our big buddies in Mrs. Roach’s class! Our preschool friends eagerly showed them our fluffy chicks and gave them a tour of our vibrant outdoor play space. It was a bustling, busy day full of laughter and discovery!

Sunny Day Fun 🌞✨

With the arrival of nice weather, we’ve brought out some favorite activities! The bubbles and bubble wands, along with our water table, were huge hits. Both activities drew large crowds of happy, giggling kids!

Lizard Adventures 🦎🏠

The warm sun has brought out the lizards, scurrying around our yard. Our creative kiddos even built a lizard house, complete with a tiny fireplace in the middle!

Peek into Frogs’ Week 🐸🍃

The Frogs class has been busy tending our garden. They took a lovely walk to care for our herbs and plants, and on the way back, they had fun building nests and campfires. There was also a lot of tape used to build the most imaginative lizard trap ever!

Ladybugs’ Colorful Week 🐞🎨

The Ladybugs enjoyed a mix of weather this week. On sunny days, we brought out bubble wands, walking stilts, and colorful chalk. The rain added a new twist, turning our drawings into vibrant masterpieces and creating a fast-flowing river in our forest play area!

Exciting Delivery Play 📦🚚

Our little delivery people were hard at work, sorting packages and sending them down the ‘chute’. Some boxes became cozy homes or towering structures. The creativity was endless!

Peek into Bears’ Week 🐻🔬

We explored a fun science experiment with cornstarch, water, and color. Is it wet? Sticky? Hard or soft? The kids loved the sensory play, and cleanup was a breeze! Our SVP Ice Cream Shoppe also opened, with the kids serving up the largest ice cream sundaes!

Tadpoles’ Busy Week 🐸🐛

Our little chicks have grown into chickens and have moved to their new homes, and now we’re caring for caterpillars that will soon become Painted Lady Butterflies. The kids have been busy building homes for centipedes and lizards among the wood pieces.

Ladybugs’ Construction Zone 🏗️🏰

The Ladybugs had a blast with our wood blocks, creating amazing structures. We even got to watch a live construction demo outside our fence! The kids learned so much and had the best view from our picnic table.

Frogs’ Police Adventure 🚓🔧

The Frogs class helped the police tune up their bikes after a fun pretend collision. Our little mechanics and construction workers were on hand to make repairs and ensure everyone was smiling after the incident.

Thank you to all our wonderful families for your continued support and participation. Let’s make these last few weeks memorable!

Until Next Time!

Strawberry Vale Preschool 🌟🍓

🌟 Discover the Delights of Our Recent Weeks at SVP Preschool! 🌟

🏴‍☠️ Adventures in Learning and Exploration 🏴‍☠️

🐞 Ladybugs’ Pirate Preparations: Our Ladybugs had a thrilling week with visits from former preschoolers, now in Mrs. Roach’s class. They engaged in a delightful smartboard storytelling session followed by one-on-one reading with their big buddies. The excitement continued as they prepared for Pirate Day, crafting treasure maps and painting pirate flags. Their creativity shone as they painted pirate ships and eco-friendly “gold” rocks. The week culminated in a forest treasure hunt and pirate-themed yoga, enhancing both their imagination and physical fitness.

🐸 Frogs’ Innovative Racetrack: The Frogs transformed a simple tuff tray into an elaborate racetrack, complete with tape roads, cheerers, and even a unicorn! 🦄 They built stands, crafted a trophy, and devised a confetti system to celebrate the winning car, showcasing their deep engagement and creativity. Their week was filled with energy, from constructing traffic lights to powering up bikes, proving that learning through play is boundlessly fun.

🌱 Tadpoles’ Outdoor Adventures: With smaller class sizes, our Tadpoles enjoyed several trips, reinforcing kindergarten readiness skills like group walking. Their joy was evident at Rosedale Park and during their “Forest Friday” hide and seek games. They also engaged in hands-on gardening, eagerly planting sunflowers which, with a bit of luck and care, will grow into stunning blooms.

🏴‍☠️ Bears’ Pirate and Construction Fun: Our Bears also delved into Pirate Day activities, crafting maps and flags and searching for treasure in the forest. Their week was also marked by practical learning as they helped clean up after a hailstorm, underscoring the importance of safety and teamwork.

🌼 Seasonal Science and Storytelling: As spring ushered in new life, our children explored the life cycles of frogs, chicks, and butterflies with great enthusiasm. They observed chick hatching and even tried their hand at veterinary play, caring for various “patients” in our SVP vet hospital.

🎨 Creative Expressions and Community Engagement: From constructing a dinosaur park at the playdough table to setting up a race track and indulging in imaginative play, our students’ creativity was on full display. They also welcomed their families to share in these moments, bridging school experiences with home life.

🌞 Looking Ahead to Summer: As we plan for summer camps, we’re adapting to changes like possible relocations due to school district roofing updates. We’re excited for the opportunities this summer will bring, whether at our usual site or at a local park, promising more adventures and learning experiences.

Join us in celebrating the vibrant life and learning at SVP Preschool, where every week is an adventure and a chance to grow! 🌱🎉

🌟 Strawberry Vale Preschool Weekly Highlights 🌈

Ahoy, Strawberry Vale families! This week, our preschool turned into a bustling hub of exploration, creativity, and sheer joy! Here’s a sprinkle of the magical moments we shared:

🍄 Nature’s Classroom Unfolds: Our yard revealed a secret adventure as the children discovered a decomposing log. With curiosity sparked, they chipped away at the “white stuff,” uncovering the wonders of decomposition. Imagine chipping away and creating a preschool-built canoe to float in our pond. Could we? Should we? Stay tuned!

🌳 Spring Awakens: With the forest shaking off its winter nap, we embarked on a journey to identify plants, trees, fungi, and lichen. Connecting with nature has never been more enchanting!

👟 Leap of Confidence: A new stepping stone course challenged our little adventurers, transforming cautious steps into bold leaps. Witnessing their confidence soar was a sight to behold, a reminder of the beauty in embracing risk with a sprinkle of safety.

🏴‍☠️ Pirate Adventures on the High Seas: Captain and his crew navigated treacherous waters, facing cannon fire and ship repairs with bravery. Our preschoolers’ imagination sailed far and wide, proving there’s no limit to where their minds can go.

🐸 Frogs’ Week Peek: From rescue missions to pond explorations and tree planting, our Frogs’ week was filled with environmental heroism and construction marvels. A Lego horse rescue turned into an eco-adventure, showcasing our children’s big hearts and boundless energy.

🎼 Musical Mavericks: Has your home been filled with the sound of emerging band stars? Our preschool band has been practicing hard, creating symphonies of joy (and a bit of noise) that echo through Strawberry Vale.

💌 Sprinkles of Kindness: On Pink Shirt Day, our circle time turned into a brainstorm of benevolence, sharing ideas on spreading kindness far and wide. Our “Sprinkles of Kindness” donut is bursting with heartfelt ideas from our thoughtful preschoolers.

🌧️ Weather Wonders and Sandbox Architects: From puddle collectors to sandbox road engineers, every dry and rainy day is an opportunity for discovery and creation. Even a downpour can’t dampen our spirits!

👫 Big Buddy Day and Pirate Day: Get ready for a week of friendship and adventure! Big Buddy Day and Pirate Day are on the horizon, promising days filled with camaraderie and imaginative play. Remember, no pirate weapons needed; we’re all about safe, dramatic play.

📸 Picture Day Reminder: Mark your calendars for March 12th and 13th for class and individual photos. Let’s capture these moments with smiles and giggles.

🏒 Upcoming Fundraiser: The Royals game and Chuck a Puck event is almost here! Join us on March 9th for a night of fun and fundraising. Just a few tickets left!

🎨 Creative Explorations: From forest adventures discussing land stewardship to inventive painting with shower poofs and overturned picnic table ships, creativity knows no bounds at Strawberry Vale.

Stay tuned for more adventures, and remember, our preschool is a place where imagination runs wild, and every day is a new journey!

🌈 Save the Dates:

• March 9th – Royals Hockey game & Chuck-a-puck.
• Purdy’s Easter Campaign: Orders due March 17th.
• Hilltop Orders: Due April 7th.
• Photographs March 12 , 13, for class and individual photos!

For any questions about events, reach out to fundraising.strawberry@gmail.com. Let’s make every moment at Strawberry Vale Preschool a magical adventure!

Have you purchased your hockey tickets? We are only 1 week out! Please connect with fundraising or a teacher to secure yours!!

🚀✨ A Stellar Journey Back to Strawberry Vale Preschool! ✨🚀

Welcome back, little astronauts! 🌌 After a cozy winter break, our preschool transformed into a buzzing space station. The “under the loft area” launched into a new realm, turning into a spacecraft complete with astronaut suits, a telescope, and a control station. 🚀 Our journey through the cosmos didn’t stop there; the space theme soared across the room with a wooden rocket ship, moon rocks shimmering at the light table, and a galaxy of stories told through painted rocks.

Despite the chill limiting our outdoor adventures on Thursday, we brought the universe of fun indoors with an extended circle time. We soared through movement, games, and the echoing laughter of reading one of our favorite tales, “Mortimer” by Robert Munch. The children became drumming stars, syncing their beats with the book’s chorus, filling the room with joyous rhythm. 📚✨

🐸 Frogs Peek into Thursday Afternoon: A Construction of Creativity

The cold may have shortened our outdoor time, but it sparked an indoor masterpiece. A fort of epic proportions emerged, crafted from every toy in sight, draped in blankets, and guarded by a playful obstacle course. Navigating “the fort” became an adventure, showcasing our little architects’ boundless imagination and teamwork. 🏰

❄️ A Week of Snowy Delights and Warm Welcomes

The snow became our canvas and playground, from sledding escapades to crafting snow angels. We’re thrilled to introduce new students to our vibrant community, along with new support joining us for her ECE practicum. Together, we’re exploring new horizons, both in the snowy outdoors and the heart of our classrooms.

🐞 Ladybugs’ and Frogs’ Week of Discovery

From snowy crafts to volcanic experiments, our week was a tapestry of learning and laughter. The Ladybugs painted the last of the snow while uncovering hidden gems in our Fairy Garden. The Frogs embraced their scientific curiosity with volcano creations, letting their imaginations erupt in colorful expressions.

As we ventured from the realms of space to the wonders of our own snowy backyard, the week at Strawberry Vale Preschool was nothing short of magical. From building forts to creating art, every moment was a journey of discovery, friendship, and fun. Here’s to more adventures ahead! 🌈🌟

Save The Date!

March – 9th 6:05 PM.

The Victoria Royals VS Everette

Come buy pucks for our Chuck-a-Puck!

Come to 4130 Rosedale Ave, Victoria BC for our open house!

Join Us for Our Annual Open House at Strawberry Vale Preschool!

Strawberry Vale Preschool warmly invites you and your family to our much-anticipated annual Open House! Whether rain or shine, we’re excited to open our doors for a day filled with fun, exploration, and learning. It’s a perfect opportunity for new friends to get acquainted with our vibrant preschool community.

What to Expect:

• Interactive Play Zones: Dive into our favorite activities and toys! From sensory tables to creative arts, there’s something for every little learner.
• Meet Our Teachers: Chat with our dedicated educators about our play-based curriculum and how we foster independence, curiosity, and creativity.
• Tour Our Facilities: Explore our classrooms, outdoor play areas, and special learning centers designed with preschoolers in mind.
• Parent Q&A : Have your questions answered about enrollment, programs, and what makes Strawberry Vale Preschool the perfect place for your child’s early education.

Don’t Miss Out! This is a fantastic opportunity to see firsthand how Strawberry Vale Preschool nurtures young minds and encourages a lifelong love of learning. Our cooperative preschool is located in the heart of Victoria, BC, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all families.

 **Get Ready for an Unforgettable Family Night with TRADES NIGHT!** 

Join us for a thrilling evening of hockey as the Victoria Royals take on the Everett Silvertips! This isn’t just a game; it’s a family extravaganza filled with fun, excitement, and community spirit!

 **Date:** Saturday, March 9, 2024

 **Time:** 6:05 PM

 **Venue:** Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre

 **Ticket Price:** Only $20!

**But that’s not all!** As part of our special TRADES NIGHT, we have a lineup of delightful family activities that will keep everyone entertained!

And here’s the cherry on top: **Chuck a Puck!**  Not only do you get a chance to win fabulous prizes, but you also contribute to a noble cause. All proceeds from Chuck a Puck purchases will go towards supporting Strawberry Vale Preschool.

So, grab your game tickets, join in the fun, and help us support our local community!

 *Tickets are selling fast!* Secure your spot for a night filled with excitement, family fun, and community support.

**Let’s cheer on the Royals and make a difference together!**