Casa Squirrels

  BEAUTIFUL JUNK! We are excited to invite you to take part in a special community initiative we call  “Beautiful Junk!” In Montessori, children learn best through real-life materials, sensory exploration, and meaningful hands-on experiences. Many everyday household items that are no longer being used at home can become valuable tools for learning in our classrooms—especially for  sensory play, practical life, art, and outdoor discovery . If you have gently used items you no longer need, we would be grateful for your donations. Items We Are Currently Accepting Kitchen & Practical Life Materials Spoons, small cutlery Ladles, whisks, tongs Measuring cups/spoons Small bowls and containers Silver, stainless steel, or old china kitchen utensils Sensory Table & Water Play Items Bath toys and water toys Funnels, scoops, cups Small pouring containers Recyclable / Disposable Materials (clean) Yogurt containers Toilet paper and paper towel rolls Plastic cups (including beer...

  A message to all our Educators!  It is hard to believe that we are about to celebrate  11 years  since the opening of Terra Viva Montessori School. What began in  2014  as a small seed of a dream—with my own child as the very first student—has now grown into a beautiful living vision that proudly serves  nearly 100 families  across the Niagara Region. Never underestimate the power of a  DREAM . When a dream is born from love, service, and faith, its roots are destined to grow deep… and its branches will one day offer shade, strength, and fruit to many. Because of this vision—educating children in the spirit of nature and through Montessori principles—I was blessed to call each of you into this community. Together, we serve children, grow alongside them, and offer our gifts to the world…  one child at a time . First Location at Lakeshore Rd, St. Catharines Your work is not “just a job.” It is sacred. It is the foundation from which chil...

    Moving Up Kindergarten and Elementary Community Children moving into Kindergarten or Elementary will be supported through a gradual and intentional transition process. For families whose children are advancing to the Elementary level, we are happy to share that: Bursaries are available! DID YOU KNOW? Thanks to  CWELCC  funding  and our  Elementary bursaries , today’s tuition has been  reduced by nearly 70% . Programs like this  previously cost  $1,200–$1,600 per month , plus additional fees for  before- and after-school care. Now, with the support of  government bursaries , your child has greater access than ever to our  unique  Montessori and Nature-based education  —at a significantly  reduced fee, plus the B/A program is included in the fee! . This is a wonderful opportunity to provide your child with  high-quality, enriched learning  in a  nurturing and natural environment , from  Kind...

  Winter Outdoor Play As we continue outdoor play during the winter season, we would like to share a reminder about how children should be dressed to stay warm and comfortable outside. For winter outdoor play, children should wear three internal pieces of clothing, followed by their winter jacket and snow gear. This layering system helps children regulate their body temperature while staying protected from the cold. Required layering for outdoor play: 1. First Layer – Base Layer This is worn closest to the skin and helps keep the body warm and dry. Examples: long-sleeve shirt, thermal top, leggings, or long underwear. 2. Second Layer – Warm Layer This layer adds extra warmth. Examples:  Terra Viva  shirt over the base layer, light fleece top, or warm cotton layer. 3. Third Layer – Sweater or Hoodie This layer provides insulation before going outside. Examples:  Terra Viva  sweater, hoodie, fleece pullover, or cardigan. Outer Layer (for outdoors): - Winter jacket...

  Returning to School After Holidays: Understanding the Adjustment 🎒  Why the Transition Can Feel Hard for Some Children Weeks of free time, flexible schedules, travelling time, spending time with mom and dad and other relatives plus fewer rules, became the children's new normal during the Holidays. Since children do not perceive linear time as we adults do, they feel these routines are, in fact, their new way of life. So much fun! time is up! Back to school, here we go, and their internal routines — sleep patterns, reward systems, and emotional rhythms — need time to readjust, recalibrated.  This shift isn’t just physical (waking up early again) but also emotional.  Extra support for some children who may experience strong emotions is needed. Important things to remember when riding the children's train of emotions. Little ones might feel Mixed emotions  — excitement  and  nervousness Irritability, clinginess, or resistance Anxiety or low mood about ...

  Winter Reminders for a Safe & Cozy Season  As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to sparkle, we want to share a few friendly reminders to help our school community stay warm, prepared, and connected this winter. 1. Dress for Winter Success  Outdoor play is an essential part of our day—it keeps children active, energized, and happy. To ensure they stay warm and comfortable, please send your child with  proper winter clothing  every day. This includes: A warm winter jacket Snow pants Waterproof boots Mittens or gloves A hat and neck warmer (scarves are not recommended for safety) Labeling each item with your child’s name helps us return lost gear quickly. 2. Stay Updated on Inclement Weather Alerts  Winter weather can change quickly! We encourage families to stay tuned to  school updates, local news, and weather alerts  for any closures or modified schedules. If the school needs to communicate urgent weather-related information, we will...

  What to bring for DAILY Nature play and Forest school days Although we recognize there are multiple challenges to getting your child dressed for a day in the forest, we want you to know that it is okay! Our staff understands the challenges children may face at the beginning of a new season. Please communicate with us and share how your child feels and any special accommodations we should discuss with you prior to the first day of Forest school. Be advised that children who do not have the required items won't be able to participate. Parents will be called to bring items to school if needed. FALL Daily Essential items pocket snack (peanut free granola bar) water bottle Hat Soft Mittens 2 Layers of clothing A Jacket A pair of heat warmers, hand/ feet (cold days) Thick socks Waterproof splash pants and a splash suit to go over a jacket on rainy days/cold days Waterproof boots Cubbies items (to leave at school) *Extra Shoes *Extra socks *Full set of pants, long-sleeve shirts, and und...