When We Are Together

This week, we focus on the meaning of teamwork. We observe how we start to listen more carefully to each other, take turns with more patience, and realize that our actions--big or small—have an effect on the group. Through play, conversations, and shared experiences,  we begin to understand that teamwork isn’t about always being right or winning, but about growing together as a community.

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We explore the idea of teamwork by encouraging ourselves to recognize that every action contributes to the group experience, even when it’s not the loudest or most obvious voice.

In music time, even the younger friends — Emily, Luka, and Tvisha — take part. Tvisha especially loves the song “There Were Ten in the Bed.” It’s a great way to practice counting backward from ten while keeping the group focused and joyful.

​We play games where we work in teams to collect points by responding to images that show  everyday different situations. For example, when we ask whether it's better to use plastic or reusable bags, Fides says, "Reusable ones, because plastic bags can break. While this is not the main environmental reason, Fides shows he is thinking critically, and we honor his idea without correcting him. This supports the value of every contribution in a group.

Every voice and contribution matters to Nora. During group conversation, Nora shows a different kind of leadership​. Her words are calm and full of empathy. She doesn’t take over or correct, she simply holds space for another to grow.

As always our outdoor boy shines with joy, he is fully immersed in his own rhythm. He doesn’t use many words yet, but his humming speaks volumes. The way he holds the microphone with confidence shows us that expression goes beyond language. 

When we ask whether it’s better to ride a bike or drive a car, Nora says, "Both are good, but riding a bike is better because it doesn’t make smoke." Her answer shows a thoughtful connection to pollution and caring for the Earth.

We also talk about trash and recycling. When we ask if we should just throw garbage anywhere or sort it, Kalyan answers, “We have to recycle it. It goes in the blue bin.” His response shows how our routines are helping ourselves build real understanding about caring for the environment.

We express ourselves in very different ways, yet both remind us that true teamwork is rooted in respect​. It shows us how even the quietest voice can be powerful, how strength can look like patience and understanding. 

Our comments remind us how ourselves think deeply when we have time and space. It’s not about having the "right" answer, it’s about creating a space where our ideas matter. Our role is to protect that space, not to rush to explain, but to listen to.

Even in the midst of our busiest days - when time feels short and our minds are pulled in a hundred directions - each one of us still carries a quiet, persistent energy. It is the energy of presence, of care, of intention. 

​We bring it into conversations, gestures, shared moments, and silent understandings. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply showing up, we participate in a constant exchange with those around us.

A silent conversation unfolds between Emily and Tvisha's hands and flowers and leaves - no words, no sound, just the soft meeting of curiosity and beauty. In that gentle touch lies a thousand words: awe, gentleness, discovery, and love. We do not need to speak to understand the flower, and the flower, in its stillness, responds with grace. It is in these quiet exchanges that the world feels most alive, where wonder blooms and hearts learn to listen without sound.

​This subtle yet powerful flow of giving and receiving what weaves us together, reminding us that connection doesn't require perfection or pause - only our willingness to share even a small part of ourselves. 

On another occasion, Kalyan and Tvisha are part of a silent conversation - the kind that needs no words. Kalyan is absorbed in a world of quiet focus, hands busy shaping his interest, while Tvisha watches with calm curiosity, eyes gently tracing each movement. There is no need to interrupt, no demand for attention. 

Instead, there is a quiet understanding, a mutual respect for the space each one holds. In this still moment, connection blooms - not through talking, but through simply being together. It is here, in this shared silence, that the language of presence speaks the loudest.

Once she has her turn, Tvisha sits cross-legged, her doll resting quietly in her lap. With the focus of an artist and the heart of a caregiver, she dips her brush and begins to paint. 

"This is for your cheeks," she whispers to the doll, "so you feel happy today,"

Each touch is careful, loving. She pauses often, tilting her head, making sure every detail feels just right. Her hands are small, but her gestures speak of something big - of care, attention, and love.

Another opportunity arises for us to demonstrate our keenness toward our mini farm of worms. The morning sun streams in through the window, we gather around their little home - curious, careful, and full of quiet excitement. 

This has become part of our rhythm. We check on them regularly. To Emily, Luka, Fides, and Kalyan it is not just about watching, it is about noticing - how they move, how the compost changes, how the soil becomes richer over time.

We have learned that worms do not ask for much. While Tvisha and Luka help with pounding a bit of egg shells here, other friends help with a sprinkle of moisture there. But they give so much back. They teach us patience, responsibility, and the quiet power of the unseen.

The letters are scattered across the tray - waiting to be discovered. "Let's make a word," someone says, eyes bright with curiosity, One by one has a turn to move the letters around, trying different combinations, giggling when we make something silly. But then, like a quiet magic, the letters fall into place in Fides' hands: E-A-R-T-H.
"Earth," whispers Nora, as if the word itself holds weight.
And in that moment, letters become meaning, and learning becomes love.

We begin our morning group time by joyfully singing our special name-spelling song. Each friend has the chance to proudly spell out his or her name, with smiles and excitement filling the room.​

Tvisha amazes us all as she confidently spells out each letter of her name entirely by herself, her face beaming with pride. 

​Luka is brave as he steps up to spell his name as well, managing it wonderfully with just a gentle prompt and supportive cheers from everyone. It is lovely seeing how our friends encourage one another, helping build confidence and a sense of belonging.

​Taking advantage of the beautiful, warm weather, we head outside for some active play and teamwork. We enthusiastically choose to play soccer, kicking and running energetically across the grassy playground. Friends eagerly cheer each other on, taking turns passing the ball and joyfully celebrating our achievements together. It is heartwarming to watch ourselves practice teamwork and sportsmanship, sharing smiles and laughter as we enjoy the sunny day together.

We move on to our eagerly anticipate Magic Milk experiment. Friends gather around excitedly as we set up the plates of milk.

Each one of us carefully use droppers to gently place small drops of blue and green food coloring onto the milk. Our faces lit up with curiosity, observing how the colors sit quietly at first.​​

​Then comes the magical moment—each one of us takes an earbud dips in dish soap and gently touch it to the colorful milk. The room quickly fills with gasps and laughter as vibrant colors begin to swirl, dance, and spread in fascinating patterns. 

We enthusiastically point and shout out, "Look, the colors are moving!" We are truly amazed, exploring and talking about our observations as we continue experimenting.

We wrap up our day with a thoughtful and meaningful learning experience: returning our beautifully painted rocks to the earth. These rocks have been carefully decorated earlier, each with vibrant colors and heartfelt messages expressing our gratitude and kindness towards our planet. 

We carefully select special spots outside to gently place our rocks, proudly giving back our thoughtful creations to nature.

We talk about the importance of caring for our environment, and each one of us happily shares our hopes and good wishes for our earth. Friends say sweet things like, "I will take care of the plants and animals!", "Beautiful Earth." and many more.

Today is truly special, fills with joy, curiosity, cooperation, and meaningful conversations about the importance of taking care of our wonderful planet.

Kindest,
Children & Friends.