Director’s Newsletter: December 2019

Dear Parents,

We can’t believe how fast the year is passing. 2019 is almost over while the holidays are upon us and the weather has taken a drastic turn bringing heavy snow and cold temperatures.

Please insure to complete the “Holiday Survey” located at your child’s classroom to let us know if you will be out for the week of Christmas and/or the week of New Year’s so that we may staff appropriately. 

Many thanks to our parents who supported our annual Fund Raiser. We brought in $1387.35 from the sales of which we will get 50% to purchase books for the classrooms. Without your support, we couldn’t be successful.

SAVE THE DATE: We will be having our Winter Program at the American Legion in Longmont on Wednesday, December 11 at 7:00 p.m. where the children will be performing. Parents and their families are invited to attend. Parents can start to arrive at 6:30 p.m. We will be having refreshments after the program. If you would like to bring something for our refreshment table, please feel free to, however it is not required.

We will be closing the school early on Friday, December 13th for our monthly staff meeting. School closes at 4:00 p.m.

Sunset Academy will be closed on Christmas Day December 25th and New Year’[s Day January 1st. We will also be closing at 4:00 p.m. December 24th on Christmas Eve, and 4:00 p.m. December 31st on New Year’s Eve. To those of you who are traveling for the holiday be safe and have a Happy Holidays. 

We will have stockings hanging at your child’s classroom. We are providing this opportunity for your child to provide a simple gift to their teacher. 

We are grateful to all of our families whose children attend Sunset Academy.

Parenting Tip:  Tips on Toys and Other Gifts This Holiday Season

The holiday season is quickly approaching and the question of what are the best gifts for children may be on the minds of some parents. Parents should pay attention to any recalls to insure safety when purchasing gifts. This holiday season may be a good time to focus on some old favorites such as books, puzzles, blocks, pull toys, board games, music and book CDs, art supplies, and balls of all shapes and sizes.

While thinking about what gifts may be best for the children in your life, here are some things to consider:

  • Select toys that suit your child’s skills, abilities and interests. Toys intended for older children should not be given to younger ones. Look for labels that indicate the age recommendation, but keep in mind your child’s developmental level. Toys intended for children under three should not have parts so small that they can be swallowed or become lodged in your child’s airway, ears, or nose.
  • Choose toys that are well-built and can withstand vigorous twisting and movement. Make sure that small parts are securely attached. Check that the product does not have sharp edges and that protective tips are secure. Understand the assembly instructions and do not alter, change or omit parts as this may result in an unsafe toy.
  • Toys with long strings or cords should not be used for children under three and caution should be taken with preschool age children. Do not hang toys near or over cribs if they are not intended for that use.
  • Be aware of the noise a toy makes. Some sounds can be loud and may brighten a child. Read the warnings on the label. Some toys may produce loud sounds that are at levels that can result in hearing damage. Many of these toys are labeled for “outdoor use only” for this reason.
  • Adult supervision may be necessary, depending on the toy and the age of the child.

For additional information about toy safety, including product recalls, visit the following websites:

Nina Emmer – Director-Sunset Academy