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By Stephanie Jouflas
-- Did you know that the Ute Tribe of Ute Mountain is building an eight mile long solar power farm? Or that California's power grid successfully ran entirely on wind, water, and solar power for two consecutive days this February? Renewable energy technology is becoming more efficient, widespread, and widely adopted worldwide. This Earth Month, I am centering resilience and hope, and I invite all of you to join me! Earth Month is sometimes hard for me; it is not easy keeping faith with so much negative news of harm being done to our planet and our communities as climate change progresses. We know that the big picture is indeed very big, and will take cooperation at all levels to bring meaningful change. However, we have to remember that the small things we do-- not just this month, but in our daily lives-- matters exponentially. Tiny seeds grow into vast forests, and children who are shown that the world is a beautiful place to be loved and protected grow up to be fierce lovers and protectors of that world. If we can make a home, a campus, a community, or a city, a nurturing place to grow and witness what Maria Montessori termed the cosmic vision (a universe in which every small thing affects and is affected by every other small thing), then our children will grow up feeling both important and powerful, and also deeply connected to others. Taking time to show real care to the planet and involving your child in concrete work in nature is how we can help shape the child to show love, hope, compassion, and inner peace which will make a difference for our planet. Take some time this April to look for the good news around you, and then go out and make some good news! Let's surround today's children with beauty, opportunity, and, most of all, hope. It will not leave them, and they will return it back to the environment tenfold. -- Stephanie is an Assistant Teacher and Aftercare Supervisor in Nootka Rose. You may reach her by emailing [email protected] with the subject line 'attn: Stephanie Jouflas
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 By Remin Shamir
-- Ramadan holds immense significance for Muslims around the world, including my family. This sacred month is cherished and it shapes our lives in different ways. Spiritual Reflection and Growth: Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of deep spiritual reflection and growth. It commemorates the momentous occasion when the angel Gabriel revealed the Quran—the holy book of Islam—to Prophet Muhammad in 610 AD. This divine revelation, known as Laylat Al Qadar or the “Night of Power,” occurred during Ramadan. As Muslims, we fast from dawn to sunset during this month, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical desires. Fasting serves as a shield, reminding us to avoid negative behaviors and focus on self-improvement. Through prayer, recitation of the Quran, and acts of kindness, we seek to strengthen our connection with Allah. Acts of Compassion and Service: During Ramadan, we engage in acts of charity and compassion. It’s a time to support those in need, both within our community and beyond. Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of almsgiving, to ensure that everyone can partake in the joy of Eid al-Fitr—the festive celebration marking the end of Ramadan. Supporting local food banks, volunteering, and reaching out to neighbors are ways people can contribute to our observance of Ramadan. By extending kindness and empathy, we embody the spirit of this blessed month. Strengthening Family Bonds: Ramadan brings families together. We break our fasts as a unit, sharing meals and prayers. The pre-dawn meal, known as Suhoor, and the evening meal, called Iftar, become cherished moments of togetherness. We gather around the table, express gratitude, and connect with loved ones. Supporting our observance of Ramadan means understanding the significance of these communal meals and perhaps joining us for an Iftar. Your presence and respect for our practices are invaluable. In summary, Ramadan is a time of devotion, self-improvement, and compassion. To support our observance, consider learning more about its significance, participating in community events, and showing understanding and respect. May this blessed month bring peace and blessings to all. -- Remin is an Assistant Teacher and Aftercare Supervisor in Nootka Rose. You may reach her by emailing [email protected] with the subject line 'attn: Remin Shamir' |
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Montessori Children's House
5003 218th Ave. NE Redmond, WA 98053 Phone: 425-868-7805 [email protected] For Records Requests, please reach out to [email protected]. |
Founded in 1987
Fully Accredited in Infant - Elementary II
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