The Gathering Tree - Early Learning

When we slow things down, even just a little, something shifts. There’s more connection, more calm, and more space for curiosity to grow.

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We were so grateful to welcome Judith Jacques to Gathering Tree for a special reading of her book, "Gardenland", in our Willow Hut. It was such a joy to have current families and prospective families gathered together to read, learn, and enjoy this beautiful experience with her. The children were ecstatic to have a "real" author visiting!

Planting peas for our garden was the perfect activity to tie it all together, and we had so much fun! Getting our hands in the dirt is aways a favorite activity.

We hope Judith will come back to share "Book 2" with us when our Sunflower Circle grown in. 🌱📖💛

Did you know that playing with clay can help children in many ways? When kids roll, pinch, and shape the clay, they strengthen their hands and fingers, improving their fine motor skills and coordination. Clay also encourages creativity—children can make anything they imagine, from animals to abstract shapes, or invent something entirely new. As they play, they practice problem-solving and learn to think in fun, creative ways.

Molding clay helps kids understand important concepts like balance, symmetry, and how different shapes fit together. It’s a great way to engage their minds and help them develop important thinking skills. Plus, the soft, squishy texture of clay is great for sensory development. It can be calming and help children become more aware of what they’re touching and feeling.

Clay also offers a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Sometimes, it’s hard for kids to express their feelings with words, but through clay, they can show their emotions in a creative and tangible way. And the best part? Working with clay teaches patience! It helps children understand that good things take time, and as they continue to work on their creations, they’ll see the rewards of their efforts.

One of the core beliefs of our program is that children thrive in mixed-age environments. Younger children benefit from observing and interacting with older peers, gaining valuable insights and learning new skills. Meanwhile, older children step into leadership roles, building self-confidence and responsibility. These photos from the past few weeks highlight the advantages of mixed-age groups, showcasing moments such as:
• A younger child learning how to climb a tree from an older peer,
• A child offering support to a friend in a time of distress,
• Older children modeling how to play with and care for special materials,
• A group of children taking safe risks together,
• A performance where a child put on a concert for their friends.

These experiences not only foster growth in all ages but also strengthen the sense of community within our program.