December Newsletter 2022

Teri Ann Cox
Executive Director of The Children’s Center

Dear Center Families,

Looking back on my past December newsletters - the focus has been around either:

-          Staying healthy (because of the “yucky” part of the holidays that includes colds and the flu -- which then led me to include our Center illness and exclusion policy), or

-          Believing in the magic of the season (where I would then share information about our annual Polar Express reading event).

While both themes are still relevant, like last year, they have a much different spin and meaning. Unlike pre-pandemic times, keeping your child home because they are sick often now means testing them for Covid-19. For many, 2020, 2021, and 2022 have been extremely difficult years. Finding the season’s magic can be hard. I know for my own family; the holidays will not be easy given that we lost my husband’s father earlier in the year and are dealing with the anticipatory grief of losing my dad as his dementia aggressively progresses.

Nevertheless, I remind myself that the month of December can (and should) be a magical one, especially when young children are involved. With each day that passes, the excitement builds here in our classrooms, especially for those who believe in Santa Claus! I am inspired by the quote from the movie Polar Express where Santa says,

“This bell is a wonderful symbol of the spirit of Christmas - as am I. Just remember, the true spirit of Christmas lies in your heart.”

So, this December, I will choose faith (that the multiple respiratory illness surge and workforce crisis that persists will someday end), gratitude (for my core family unit of five being otherwise healthy and able to be together), and joy (like I see in your young child’s eyes every day).

As you celebrate the season, may you and those you love, have an extra measure of comfort, hope, and joy in the month ahead.

Warmly, Teri Ann

P.S. Bobbie Bear will host this year, three (in-person vs. Zoom!) small group sessions of our Polar Express reading tradition on December 23rd!