February Newsletter 2026

Teri Ann Cox
Executive Director of The Children’s Center

Dear Center Families,

I tend at this time of year to write about how understanding the true meaning of love can be a challenging concept for young children to comprehend. While we shower our children with love from the moment they are born, teaching children about what love really entails ultimately helps them develop deeper values, such as empathy and kindness. In early education, there is not always a set plan of teaching to care about one another. I believe there needs to be. It is why “Be Kind” is one of our four Center-wide expectations.

In addition to role modeling with children, we incorporate lessons on kindness through age-appropriate activities that promote this essential concept. Of course, one idea for February is creating or signing little valentines. Another is reading stories on love; children’s books are a natural go-to for explaining abstract concepts and emotions. Recognizing and complementing your child when they randomly do a kind act goes a long way. Asking them how they feel when they are kind will also further expand their understanding.

As we teach our children about love and kindness, reaching beyond the family circle is important. We can do this by extending our actions not only to friends, but to those in the community who we do not know or may be different from us. Using respectful, and friendly words with people who are not like us teaches children the idea that kindness matters. Mr. Rogers taught some of us that very concept – and I have been touched by Lady Gaga’s reimagining of his iconic song, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” that will be airing on Super Bowl Sunday. Check out this link that includes her thoughts and intentions for the piece: https://youtu.be/e3o5FIXoK84 I recently shared this video with the staff as a friendly reminder of the role we play in making the world a better place by teaching the children in our community the importance of being a kind neighbor.

Young children learn to be kind by being kind. They develop an understanding of community and what being a good neighbor means by watching us and how we behave. By the time they are in Pre-K, or have transitioned to kindergarten and beyond, proactively discussing how everyone belongs at school, regardless of their body type, their skin color, or their physical ability is part of the learning to “be kind” process.

I believe it has never been more important to build communities of care and belonging than now. We have that inclusive culture here at the Center, where everyone belongs. Where love is shared daily. Let’s in partnership, extend that compassion and kindheartedness beyond our four walls in the year ahead.

With love and many thanks,

Teri Ann