Books and Blessings: Nurturing Hearts and Minds
Hello Learning Nest families!
I’m so excited to share a new program we introduced this year, Books and Blessings. Once a month, I visit each classroom for a special time of reading and reflection with the children. Each session features a thoughtfully chosen book that highlights an important Christian value. Together, we read, talk, and participate in activities that help the children see how these lessons can be lived out every day.
This program has taken the place of our Family Chapel from last year. Although our newly renovated space is larger overall, it no longer includes a chapel area for group gatherings. Books and Blessings has become a wonderful way to bring that same spirit of faith and connection directly into each classroom. It’s been such a joyful way to invite God’s presence into our preschool in a way that feels natural and comfortable for the children.
In October, we focused on the value of kindness through our book of the month, Welcome: A Book About Friendship by Axel Scheffler. The story reminded us that kindness and friendship go hand in hand, and the children loved sharing ways they could make others feel welcome, just as Jesus teaches us to do.
This November, our focus turns to sharing and gratitude with the beautiful story I Am Thankful. The book follows three families as they celebrate the holidays in their own unique ways, each finding meaningful opportunities to show kindness, express gratitude, and give back to their communities. It’s a wonderful reminder that gratitude and generosity are at the heart of every true celebration.
The children have really embraced this special time together, listening with excitement, sharing their own experiences, and discovering how they can live out these values in small but powerful ways. I’m so grateful for the chance to connect with them each month and help them see God’s love in their everyday moments.
Thank you, families, for partnering with us as we nurture both hearts and minds here at The Learning Nest. I can’t wait to see how Books and Blessings continues to grow and bless our little learners in the months ahead.
With love and gratitude,
Emily Keiser
