There is no way to deny this year feels different. With the absence of large family gatherings around the table and various forms of holiday travel, we are still getting into the Thanksgiving spirit.

We are off to a rousing start and the classrooms are beginning to feel as through they have been together a long while. It is an odd by product of this time that children, in particular, feel a strong sense of gratitude when they are able to gather together and meet at school.

I write this letter knowing that race in our country brings up a myriad of experiences, feelings and identifications. We all have our own perspectives; and, in this polarized atmosphere of American politics, it is common to struggle to see the perspective of the other.

Some children do not yet realize that they are away from school; but, the longer this goes on, the more likely it may be that they will have some version of anxiety, frustration or sadness. Whenever, or if, these emotions come up, it is important to let children express the feelings that underlie behaviors.

You have just gone through the Parent Teacher Conferences and had the opportunity to hear from your children's teachers. During the conference you may have heard about connections your child has made, ideas he or she may have expressed or challenges that are currently an area of focus. All this is a typical aspect of the Preschool arc.