Dear Parents,

There is always something very special about this time of year. There is a spirit in the air. Regardless of one’s religious affiliation and regardless of the commercialism in our streets and stores, a spirit of joy and sharing always seems to prevail during the holiday season.

The holiday season provides a rich opportunity for sensory experiences—the taste of traditional dishes; the smell of spices used in cookies, pies, and other goodies; the sight of beautiful lights, candles, cards, and longed for gifts to give and receive; the sound of bells, music, fires crackling and popcorn popping, and the special feeling of being close to loved ones and appreciating our heritage.
Our children brings us a special joy during this season, as we share meals with friends and relatives, share gifts with our loved ones and share time together as a family. As the year draws to an end, nearly all of us in most occupations receive some extra time off. The best thing to spend on your children is time.

The gifts we give provide momentary pleasures that fade over time and are insignificant compared to the time and love we give each and every day throughout the year. That is the foundation we build in shaping the kind of adults our children will become. Children bring us their special gifts and we can build their confidence and self esteem during those crucial formative years if we as adults:

Remember people, not things, matter most.
Love and accept our children from the day they are born.
Respect our children’s individual differences and appreciate each child’s unique capabilities.
When we think good thoughts about our children, tell them.

Cherish the moments of the season of joy with your children, family, and friends. These are the experiences that give richness and meaning to our lives and are to be treasured and fondly remembered in years to come.
With warm wishes for the holiday season,

Miss Ginnetti