Lyonsgate Update Feb. 20, 2026
Hi Lyonsgate Community,
We have an update from the Toddler program this week about all that they have been up to. Don’t forget to check the upcoming information in each program section, too.
This Week’s Classroom Update
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
This month in Toddler, the students have been learning all about winter activities, and what love means. We have taught them about love through story books and when they help each other. We have also made hearts with stickers and have been gluing hearts for our creative work. We also ask the students what they love doing with mom and dad and grandparents. They are really enjoying helping each other by showing how to put on a sweater with the one, two, flip-a-roo, and they are helping each other by putting on shoes for a friend that needs help.
The Toddler students have experienced winter activities indoor and outdoors; they have gotten to experience how ice melts with heat by painting on water colour paper with paint in an ice cube. They learn that when they use the ice cube melts the paint onto paper as it to create their picture. We have talked about what animals could be seen outside during the colder months. We have read books on how bears hibernate during winter. For our creative work, we have glued snowflakes onto trees, and outside the students have been really enjoying shoveling snow into a pile. When fresh snow falls they love to pick it up and throw it into the air and watch it fall all over them. They also really enjoy making small snowmen with packing snow. We have talked about how different types of snow are good for different textures and building. The toddlers also love to explore ice that froze with salt in it to see how fresh ice and salted ice look and feel different; it allows students to explore with their five senses.
A friendly reminder with winter upon us please label all hats, mitts, scarves, and neck warmers as our toddlers undress and leave things on the ground; without labels we do not always know what item belongs to which child and we want to make sure that your child goes home with the proper outdoor gear that belongs to them.
Thank you,
The Toddler team.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- March 9-20: March Break.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- March 9-20: March Break.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- TODAY! Saturday, February 21: Registration Open House for Interested Families. Registration is now open for families not currently attending Lyonsgate! We are always happy to welcome new children into our elementary community, regardless of where they have started their schooling. Families who are interested in a Montessori approach to learning through the elementary years with Mapleside Montessori are invited to tour the campus and speak with the classroom guides on Saturday, February 21, between 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Come visit us at 248 Locke Street South, at the corner of Charlton and Locke.
- Friday, February 27: O.W.L. Workshop 5, Part 2: Gender. Students in years 4-7 will be attending the second half of the O.W.L. workshop Gender. Students who have not already done so are kindly reminded to complete their reading assignment in It’s Perfectly Normal, Part 1: What is Sex?, Section 5, Who You Are, pages 11-18.
- Monday, March 2: Culture Fair Open Classroom for Current Parents. The classroom will be open to family visitors on Monday, March 2, from 3:15-4:15 p.m., as the children display their work from the second term. The Culture Fair is our second open classroom of the school year, with students showcasing work related to their study of ancient Greece, as well as their literature circles, and independent projects. When you arrive, please enter through the porch entrance to the Maple Room to meet up with your child. Our regular aftercare program will still be available to registered students until 4:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 4: P.E. at Elev8 Dance. The children will be returning to Elev8 Dance for a final session before the March Break. Students are kindly reminded to wear comfortable layers that allow for flexibility and can be removed if they get too hot. All students should be prepared to go barefoot in the studio rooms and tie back long hair.
- March 9-20: March Break.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Feb. 13, 2026
Happy Family Day Long Weekend Everyone,
We have an update from the Elementary program this week all about their engagement with the history and experience of current cultural celebrations, and information for parents in the Elementary section. You may hear about visitors to your children’s Montessori Casa classrooms as prospective new Lyonsgate families are beginning to observe during the morning Montessori work cycle. Otherwise, the calendar is quiet as we head towards the March Break from March 9-20.
This Week’s Classroom Update
Despite the chilly weather, the students have still been eager to get outside and get active with the snow. As they invent simple games or perform feats of strength to move great snow boulders across a frozen field, they are discovering that like the ancient Greeks, they enjoy competing with their friends. As we continue our civilization study of ancient Greece, the students are creating their own version of the Olympic Winter Games, with indoor and outdoor events to come. The students will be working together to plan some silly sports challenges, pairing off to represent different nations, and celebrating their friendly competition with opening ceremonies and the playing of national anthems.
Cultural celebrations are always an important part of the elementary experience, and this week has seen many connections drawn between our modern holidays and their development through history. In preparation for Valentine’s Day, the students heard Greek myths about Aphrodite, the goddess of love, and her son Eros, called Cupid by the ancient Romans. They learned about Eros’ golden arrows and his ability to make gods and humans fall into love or enmity. With Lunar New Year arriving at the start of next week, the class also discussed how humans track the passage of time, and learned about the use of solar and lunar calendars. Some students heard the story of the Great Race, where the Jade Emperor names the twelve years of the Chinese Zodiac, while others heard the Legend of Nian, which explains why their new year celebrations feature the colour red, glowing lanterns, and firecrackers. The students are always excited to learn about the meaning behind the symbols and activities associated with our holidays. We hope you all have a wonderful long weekend together, with your own family traditions and celebrations.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- March 9-20: March Break.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- March 9-20: March Break.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Friday, February 20: O.W.L. Workshop 5, Part 1: Gender. Students in Years 4-7 will be attending the first half of the O.W.L. workshop Gender, and learning about the difference between biological sex and gender expression. Students are kindly reminded to complete their reading assignment in It’s Perfectly Normal, Part 1: What is Sex?, Section 5, Who You Are, pages 11-18.
- Saturday, February 21: Registration Open House for Interested Families. Registration is now open for families not currently attending Lyonsgate! We are always happy to welcome new children into our elementary community, regardless of where they have started their schooling. Families who are interested in a Montessori approach to learning through the elementary years with Mapleside Montessori are invited to tour the campus and speak with the classroom guides on Saturday, January 31 between 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Come visit us at 248 Locke Street South, at the corner of Charlton and Locke.
- Monday, March 2: Culture Fair Open Classroom for Current Parents. The classroom will be open to family visitors on Monday, March 2 from 3:15-4:15 p.m. as the children display their work from the second term. The Culture Fair is our second open classroom of the school year, with students showcasing work related to their study of ancient Greece, as well as their literature circles, and independent projects. When you arrive, please enter through the porch entrance to the Maple Room to meet up with your child. Our regular aftercare program will still be available to registered students until 4:30 p.m.
- March 9-20: March Break.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Feb. 6, 2026
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
Thank you all for submitting registrations for the 2026.2027 school year, and for your patience and understanding while we all learned the new system together. It is a privilege, an honour, and a joy to be an ongoing part of your children’s growth, development, and learning. This week, we have an update from the Casa South classroom, and we’re looking forward to welcoming Casa parents into the classrooms over the coming week for Casa Show & Share.
This Week’s Classroom Update
The students in Casa South have been taking more responsibility lately in taking care of the classroom. They have been taking turns doing special jobs such as creating the menu for the snack, carrying the dishes to the kitchen, ringing the bell at the end of the work cycle, and straightening the Montessori material on particular shelves at the end of each day. Each week, the responsibilities change so that every child has a chance to do all of the various jobs. By actively participating in caring for our environment, the children are contributing in a meaningful way to the order and peacefulness of the community. They are also learning to help each other out and pitch in when someone is away or needs assistance with a particular job. It is especially heart warming to see some of the older children assisting the younger children with their tasks if they are finding it challenging.
Also this past week, we made crepes in the classroom to celebrate La Chandeleur. This is a French holiday that is both religious and secular. Usually celebrated 40 days after Christmas, this year it falls on February 2nd. It marks the middle of winter. Crepes are a symbol of the sun and prosperity. In Pagan times they lit fires to scare away darkness and welcome the return of sunlight and longer days. It comes from the Latin phrase, “Festum Candelarum,” which means “Fetes des Chanelles” in French and translates to “Candle Festival” in English.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- February 13 & 16: PD Day and Family Day holiday. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed for a PD Day on Friday, Feb. 13, which leads into the Family Day long weekend; it’s also Valentine’s Day weekend, so have a love-ly time and we’ll see everyone back at school on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- Feb. 10-12: Show and Share. Show & Share is an opportunity for Montessori students to invite their parents into the classrooms to show them some of the materials they work with. Show & Share will take place at the end of your child’s school day. Sign up below:
- February 13 & 16: PD Day and Family Day holiday. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed for a PD Day on Friday, Feb. 13, which leads into the Family Day long weekend; it’s also Valentine’s Day weekend, so have a love-ly time and we’ll see everyone back at school on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
- Valentine’s Day Reminder: If your child wants to give out Valentine’s cards at school, we ask that you have one, home-made card for each student in the class and that they do not have names on them (only your child’s name). Please do not send candy or other treats to school. Thank you. [Toddler: 9 | Casa North: 23 | Casa South: 22]
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Wednesday, February 11: Physical Education at United Family Martial Arts (UFMA). All Elementary students will be heading to UFMA on Dundurn Street for their P.E. class. Younger students will be having fun with self-defense skills such as punches, blocks, and kicks, while older students will be returning to kick-boxing, battling the bags to improve their form, force, and stamina! Students are kindly reminded to wear lightweight and comfortable clothing to class that will allow for flexibility. Students should also be prepared to take off their socks and go barefoot on the dojo mats.
- Welcome Joshua! Visiting Student Artist. We are thrilled to welcome Joshua A., a local high school student and artist, who will be visiting the class twice weekly through the term. Joshua is volunteering as part of his service hours toward achieving his high school diploma, and will be offering demonstrations and personalized art lessons to the children who are interested, sharing his passion and skill for drawing. The children are already amazed by the effects of his shading and perspective techniques as they worked together on flowers, sunsets, and snowmen!
- February 13 & 16: PD Day and Family Day holiday. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed for a PD Day on Friday, Feb. 13, which leads into the Family Day long weekend; it’s also Valentine’s Day weekend, so have a love-ly time and we’ll see everyone back at school on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
- Valentine’s Day Reminder: If your child wants to give out Valentine’s cards at school, we ask that you have one, home-made card for each student in the class and that they do not have names on them (only your child’s name). Please do not send candy or other treats to school. Thank you. [25 students]
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Jan. 30, 2026
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
This week we have an update from Casa North about their French program, ongoing sign-up for Casa Show & Share, and info about the registration open house and upcoming parent education session at the Elementary campus.
This Week’s Classroom Update
Bonjour à tous,
This month, Casa North students have been working on winter themes with lots of vocabulary in French:
- How to play outside with the snow (safety and fun);
- How to stay healthy during winter months (eating healthy, sleeping, washing hands after picking the nose or fingers in mouth, staying warm, sneezing into the elbow, etc.);
- Winter animals and their habitats;
- How to get dressed to go outside (snow pants, boots, jacket, zipper, neck warmer, hat, mittens!); this is an opportunity for our older students to help our younger students to dress and undress in the cloakroom.
Books we have been reading:
- “Enlève le doigt de ton nez, Pinocchio!” by Steve Smallman (a humourous way to teach them to not touch their nose);
- “La neige parfaite” by Barbara Reid;
- “Le véritable abominable homme des neiges” by Valentina Mendicino;
- “Jour de neige – Pat le chat” by James Dean.
Songs we have been singing:
- “Violette à bicyclette”;
- “Neige, neige blanche”;
- “je m’habille pour aller dehors” (this song helps the students when getting ready to go outside; we start with snow pants and end with mittens);
- “Ah, les crocodiles”;
- “La danse du Tyrannosaure” (the students absolutely love it!);
- “La chanson des dinosaures.”
“Restez au chaud.” Il fait froid! Brrr!
Mme Murati.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- February 13 & 16: PD Day and Family Day holiday. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed for a PD Day on Friday, Feb. 13, which leads into the Family Day long weekend; it’s also Valentine’s Day weekend, so have a love-ly time and we’ll see everyone back at school on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- Feb. 10-12: Show and Share. Show & Share is an opportunity for Montessori students to invite their parents into the classrooms to show them some of the materials they work with. Show & Share will take place at the end of your child’s school day. Sign up below:
- February 13 & 16: PD Day and Family Day holiday. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed for a PD Day on Friday, Feb. 13, which leads into the Family Day long weekend; it’s also Valentine’s Day weekend, so have a love-ly time and we’ll see everyone back at school on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Saturday, January 31: Registration Open House Families who are interested in continuing with a Montessori approach to learning through our elementary program are welcome to tour the campus and speak with the classroom guides on Saturday, January 31, between 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Current parents are always welcome to stop by and say hello! Come see us at 248 Locke Street South, at the corner of Charlton and Locke.
- Wednesday, February 4: Physical Education at United Family Martial Arts (UFMA) All Elementary students will be heading to UFMA on Dundurn Street for their P.E. class. Younger students will be having fun with an introduction to karate, while older students will be working on kick-boxing! Students are kindly reminded to wear lightweight and comfortable clothing to class that will allow for flexibility. Students should also be prepared to take off their socks and go barefoot on the dojo mats.
- Thursday, February 5: Parent Education Event Please join us after school for a parent education session on Discovering Algebra with the Montessori Materials. We’ll be giving presentations with the materials and inviting parents to collaborate to solve some problems. (We promise there is no test.) Parents are invited to join us on campus from 3:30 – 4:20 p.m. During the event, children whose parents are attending the session are welcome to join the aftercare program at no charge. Younger siblings enrolled at the Primary Campus may remain there for aftercare during the event. Please let us know how many adults plan to attend, and whether your children will be staying in childcare by completing this registration form by Monday, February 2. All elementary students will remain on site for regular dismissal and after care.
- NEW DATE! Friday, February 6: O.W.L. Workshop 4, Part 2: Changes of Puberty. The second half of the O.W.L. workshop Changes of Puberty has been rescheduled for this coming Friday, February 6. Students in Years 4-7 will be learning about body care and different hygiene products that can be supportive of tweens and teens moving through puberty. If they have not already done so, students are kindly reminded to complete their reading assignment in It’s Perfectly Normal, Part 3: Puberty, pages 30-52.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Jan. 23, 2026
Hello Lyonsgate Community,
We have an update from the Toddler classroom this week, an upcoming Elementary Open House, sign-up for Casa Show & Share, and notice of upcoming holiday closure dates.
This Week’s Classroom Update
Hello Families!
We have had such a fun and busy time in the classroom, and wanted to share a few highlights with you. The students have been enjoying new creative activities in the classroom, including making their own personal pizza art. They love to choose their toppings and discuss their favourite foods with one another. It was a great way to encourage creativity, choice-making, and conversation.
With winter weather in full swing, we have had the chance to spend time outside enjoying the snow. The students love to help shovel and move the snow, showing lots of curiosity and enthusiasm. Outdoor play like this gives them a chance to build gross motor skills and explore seasonal changes.
We’ve also noticed a growing interest in helping one another and working together. Whether it’s assisting a friend with a task, cleaning up as a team, or showing patience while waiting for their turn, the Toddler students are demonstrating cooperation and kindness. It has been lovely to see these social skills develop. We look forward to sharing more with you soon!
The Toddler Team.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- Saturday, January 31: Elementary Registration Open House. Families who are interested in continuing with a Montessori approach to learning through our elementary program are welcome to tour the campus and speak with the classroom guides on Saturday, January 31, between 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Current parents are always welcome to stop by and say hello! Come see us at 248 Locke Street South, at the corner of Charlton and Locke.
- February 13 & 16: PD Day and Family Day holiday. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed for a PD Day on Friday, Feb. 13, which leads into the Family Day long weekend; it’s also Valentine’s Day weekend, so have a love-ly time and we’ll see everyone back at school on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- Saturday, January 31: Elementary Registration Open House. Families who are interested in continuing with a Montessori approach to learning through our elementary program are welcome to tour the campus and speak with the classroom guides on Saturday, January 31, between 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Current parents are always welcome to stop by and say hello! Come see us at 248 Locke Street South, at the corner of Charlton and Locke.
- Feb. 10-12: Show and Share. Show & Share is an opportunity for Montessori students to invite their parents into the classrooms to show them some of the materials they work with. Show & Share will take place at the end of your child’s school day. Sign up below:
- February 13 & 16: PD Day and Family Day holiday. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed for a PD Day on Friday, Feb. 13, which leads into the Family Day long weekend; it’s also Valentine’s Day weekend, so have a love-ly time and we’ll see everyone back at school on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Wednesday, January 28: Physical Education at Elev8 Dance. All Elementary students will be returning to Elev8 Dance on Dundurn Street for their P.E. class! Students are kindly reminded to wear lightweight and comfortable clothing to class that will allow for flexibility and lots of high-energy movements.
- Friday, January 30: O.W.L. Workshop 4, Part 2: Changes of Puberty. Students in Years 4-7 will be attending the second half of the O.W.L. workshop Changes of Puberty. They will be learning about body care and different hygiene products that can be supportive of tweens and teens moving through puberty. If they have not already done so, students are kindly reminded to complete their reading assignment in It’s Perfectly Normal, Part 3: Puberty, pages 30-52.
- Saturday, January 31: Registration Open House. Families who are interested in continuing with a Montessori approach to learning through our elementary program are welcome to tour the campus and speak with the classroom guides on Saturday, January 31, between 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Current parents are always welcome to stop by and say hello! Come see us at 248 Locke Street South, at the corner of Charlton and Locke.
- Thursday, February 5: Parent Education Event. Please join us after school on Thursday, February 5, for a parent education session on Discovering Algebra with the Montessori Materials. Parents are invited to join us on campus from 3:30-4:20 p.m. During the event, children whose parents are attending the session are welcome to join the aftercare program at no charge. Younger siblings enrolled at the Primary Campus may remain there for aftercare during the event. Please let us know how many adults plan to attend, and whether your children will be staying in childcare by completing this registration form by Monday, February 2. All elementary students will remain on site for regular dismissal and after care.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Jan. 16, 2026
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
A reminder that Friday, January 23 is a PD Day and both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed.
We have an update from the Elementary program this week:
This Week’s Classroom Update
The Elementary students returned to school re-energized and eager for the new year! They were excited to dive into our study of ancient Greece, beginning with their creation myth and learning about important features of the land, from Mount Olympus to the Mediterranean Sea. This past week, some began to consider what daily life may have been like, making their own coil pots from clay, while others learned about the invention of theatre and began creating their own theatrical masks. Through the winter term, many students will also be participating in a small group novel study to develop their reading, comprehension, and writing skills, while also having fun discovering a new story alongside their friends. Chapter readings are followed by group discussions, art and drama reflections, and vocabulary-building activities. Our emerging readers are enjoying classic chapter books including Grasshopper on the Road, Ralph S. Mouse, and The Littles, while more experienced readers are diving into the middle-grade novels Charlotte’s Web, The Breadwinner, and Restart. From the couch in the library to the cushions in front of the fireplace, there is always a cozy place to read!
We hope everyone can enjoy the snowy weather and a good book this weekend.
Marissa and Michelle.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- Friday, January 23: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- Friday, January 23: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Monday, January 19: Scholastic Orders Due. Families wishing to place an order for our February shipment should complete their online order by Monday, January 19. Remember to enter our class code, RC144312, to receive free shipping on small orders, as well as earning bonus bucks that help keep our classroom library up-to-date with new releases.
- Wednesday, January 21 and January 28: Physical Education at Elev8 Dance. All Elementary students will be heading to Elev8 Dance on Dundurn Street for their P.E. class! They had a lot of fun with ballet and acrobatics fundamentals at their first class, and we can’t wait to see what moves they come up with as they build up to some routines. Students are reminded to wear lightweight and comfortable clothing to class that will allow for flexibility and lots of high-energy movements.
- Friday, January 23: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
- Friday, January 30: O.W.L. Workshop 4, Part 2: Changes of Puberty. Students in Years 4-7 will be attending the second half of the O.W.L. workshop Changes of Puberty. They will be learning about body care and different hygiene products that can be supportive of tweens and teens moving through puberty. If they have not already done so, students are kindly reminded to complete their reading assignment in It’s Perfectly Normal, Part 3: Puberty, pages 30-52.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Jan. 9, 2026
Welcome to the winter term Lyonsgate families. We have an update from Casa South this week.
A number of families have been asking and registration for the 2026.2027 school year will be available by the end of this month.
This Week’s Classroom Update
The new year started with a lot of fun and lots of focus. The children came back with lots of Winter break stories to tell us and each other.
We are practicing grace and courtesy in Casa South, and the children are also excited about making tea, which is a classroom activity they were asking for before the break. The process requires lots of focus and fine motor skills work. It also helps the children to have some time for themselves and to relax.
We welcomed Mr. Cowie to our Casa South team, and the children are ecstatic about it as he is a fun, kind, and enthusiastic guide.
We hope the New Year will bring even more joy and focus to the classroom, and to your children.
Ms. Prim.
Hamilton Public Health has asked us to share information about their next set of Group Theraplay sessions for children ages 2-6: “Group Theraplay is an 8 week play based therapy program. Parents and children attend together and complete activities that focus on strengthening the parent child relationship. All programs being offered are free.” Visit https://www.hamilton.ca/people-programs/public-health/parenting/parenting-groups-hamilton#theraplay for more information (and see attachment to email version of this update).
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- Friday, January 23: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- Friday, January 23: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Wednesday, January 14: Physical Education at Elev8 Dance. All Elementary students will be heading to Elev8 Dance on Dundurn Street for their P.E. class! Students are reminded to wear lightweight and comfortable clothing to class that will allow for flexibility and lots of high-energy movements.
- Friday, January 16: O.W.L. Workshop 4, Part 1: Changes of Puberty. Students in Years 4-7 will be attending the first part of the O.W.L. workshop “Changes of Puberty.” They will be learning about the role of hormones in regulating the body, as well as the body changes that come with the transition from childhood to adolescence. To prepare for this workshop, students are kindly reminded to complete their reading assignment in It’s Perfectly Normal, Part 3: Puberty, pages 30-52.
- Friday, January 23: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Dec. 19, 2025
Dear Lyonsgate Families,
The weather has been reminding us lately that winter is just around the corner, and the fall term is coming to a close. It has been so wonderful to see our returning students step into new roles and activities this year, and to welcome new friends and families to our Lyonsgate community.
We hope the children have settled in well and enjoyed the first term of this school year. There’s been a lot of learning, and a lot of fun! We look forward to our return on January 5th and the start of the winter term. There will be new activities to look forward to, new social connections to explore, new presentations to learn, and lots of growth and independence to build upon.
We would like to take this moment to recognize our wonderful staff who pour their heart and soul into making each day special for the children, and to thank you, our families, for your continued support and trust in us to look after your most precious gifts.
We wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season filled with the perfect balance of joy and peace, and we look forward to welcoming your family back in the new year!
Rachel Lyons, principal.
Sarah Kennedy, vice-principal.
Hamilton Public Health has asked us to share the following: “We are seeing an increase in seasonal respiratory illnesses in Hamilton. There has been a significant rise in Influenza A across Ontario, including the City of Hamilton. Infants and children, especially those 5 and under, are at higher risk of serious illness.” Please see the included attachments in the email version of this update, or click here and here.
Pharmacies in Hamilton providing COVID-19 and influenza vaccines can be found at ontario.ca/vaccine-locations.
If you are having trouble accessing publicly funded respiratory vaccines, please visit http://www.hamilton.ca/FallVaccineClinics or call 905-540-5250.
You can monitor respiratory virus transmission in Hamilton by visiting Hamilton’s Respiratory Virus Data web page.
Have a happy, healthy holiday everyone.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information; no photo gallery this week.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- Monday, January 5: First Day of Winter Term.
- Friday, January 23: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- Monday, January 5: First Day of Winter Term.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Monday, January 5: First Day of Winter Term.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Dec. 12, 2025
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
With the fall term coming to a close, the number of important dates is winding down, while the children’s excitement for the holiday season is ramping up. We have an update from the Casa North classroom this week, and the winter holiday dates can be found in the “Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information” section. Thursday, Dec. 18, is the last day of school for students, and staff will be in on Friday, Dec. 19, to refresh and organize the classrooms to meet the students’ needs for the winter term starting on Monday, Jan. 5.
An important non-Lyonsgate date for many families is coming up: City of Hamilton Recreation Winter Programs registration opens on Wednesday, Dec. 17. The virtual waiting room is available at 7:45 a.m. and online registration begins at 8:00 a.m. Click here to view programs and to register.
This Week’s Classroom Update
It’s hard to believe the first term is already coming to an end. It has been a very busy and fulfilling few months, during which the children have settled beautifully into their daily routines, learned many new things, and formed wonderful friendships. With the holidays approaching, we have introduced several festive crafts that the children have truly enjoyed. The Casa North students were especially delighted to create a “blizzard” in our classroom by cutting out paper snowflakes and decorating the windows with them. We hope you and your families enjoy a joyful holiday season, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for the next term.
The Casa North Team.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- Thursday, December 18: Last Day of Fall Term. This is the last full day of classes before the winter break.
- Friday, December 19: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses are closed.
- Monday, Dec. 22-Friday, Jan. 2: Winter Break. Lyonsgate is closed for the winter holiday.
- Monday, January 5, 2026: First Day of Winter Term. We welcome Lyonsgate students to the new year and the new term.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
No important upcoming dates.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Thursday, December 18: Class Party. The Elementary students will be celebrating the last day together before the winter break with a class party. Following outdoor recreation time, we’ll be having pizza delivered for lunch! Students are welcome to bring along any of their regular lunch items to supplement, and will still need their water bottle. We’ll have a variety of fun activities available for students in the afternoon, including a craft station, games room, music zone, reading room, and a short movie screening on the main floor. Students are welcome to bring a sweet treat or salty snack to donate to the treat buffet, with a friendly reminder to leave anything containing nuts at home. We hope you all enjoy the winter break, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to school in the new year!
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
Lyonsgate Update Dec. 5, 2025
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
Thank you for your generous contributions to our school’s and students’ charitable outreach projects for the upcoming holiday season. The Elementary students raised $490 to help support a family (see photo above), and toy donations for the CityKidz toy drive are starting to come in. Toys can be donated up to Wednesday morning; they will be dropped off to CityKidz Wednesday afternoon.
This Week’s Classroom Update
While the official start of winter is still a couple of weeks away we sure are getting a taste of the upcoming cold temperatures! The Toddlers have been working very hard on learning how to put on and take off all their winter gear. This self care skill helps build confidence, requires both fine and gross motor skills, and provides a sense of order as the children learn the sequence of steps to getting dressed and undressed. To support this new learning our prepared environment has low hooks so the toddlers can hang up their items, a bench to sit on to take on/off pants and boots, and a cubby for indoor shoes. The children who have mastered “the coat flip” model it for those still learning as we use language that is specific and encourages effort: “You’re working hard to get your arm in your coat,” or “I can see you’re pulling the zipper up by yourself.” We celebrate progress as much as perfection as their independence grows in small, steady steps.
Please click the links below for important dates from your children’s levels, other valuable information, and for recent photos of Lyonsgate’s Montessori students at work:
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates [find Flower Contribution sign-up links there too]
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
Check your Lyonsgate calendar regularly for up to date events and information. You can add the school calendar to your own by clicking the “+” at bottom left on mobile or “Add to Google Calendar” on desktop.
Lyonsgate Upcoming Important Dates and Information
- Wednesday, Dec. 10: CityKidz Toy Drive Deadline.
- Thursday, December 18: Last Day of Fall Term. This is the last full day of classes before the winter break.
- Friday, December 19: PD Day. Both Lyonsgate campuses are closed.
- Monday, Dec. 22-Friday, Jan. 2: Winter Break. Lyonsgate is closed for the winter holiday.
- Monday, January 5, 2026: First Day of Winter Term. We welcome Lyonsgate students to the new year and the new term.
Toddler and Casa Upcoming Important Dates
- Wednesday, Dec. 10: CityKidz Toy Drive Deadline. This is the last day to donate toys to the CityKidz toy drive. CityKidz accepts new, unwrapped toys for children ages 0 to 12. Not sure what to buy? Check out this list with their kids’ top toy requests.
Casa Parent Observations: Casa North Observations | Casa South Observations
If you are able, please choose a week or two throughout the school year to contribute a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to your child’s class: Toddler | Casa North | Casa South
Elementary Upcoming Important Dates
- Community Outreach Project: Holiday Hope. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you for your tremendous support of the students’ craft and bake sale during our Elementary Open House. Their hard work was rewarded with our community’s generosity, raising $490 to help a family in our community have a happier holiday. The older students have been shopping at Wal-Mart and Fortino’s for the items on their wish list, and our donations will be delivered to St. Matthew’s House next week. They were thrilled to be able to choose warm clothes, fun pajamas, Barbies, and craft kits for other children.
- Friday, December 12: OWL #3: Body Image. Students in Years 4-7 will be attending an OWL workshop about “Body Image,” learning about physical diversity and examining the messages we receive about bodies, health, and beauty from our families, communities, and media. They are kindly reminded to complete the reading assignment found at the bottom of the page listing follow-up activities to do after attending the workshop on “Images in Popular Culture (Media Literacy).”
- Thursday, December 18: Class Party. The Elementary students will be celebrating the last day together before the winter break with a class party. Following outdoor recreation time, we’ll be having a pizza delivered for lunch! Students are welcome to bring along any of their regular lunch items to supplement, and will still need their water bottle. We’ll have a variety of fun activities available for students in the afternoon, including a craft station, games room, music zone, reading room, and a short movie screening on the main floor. Students are welcome to bring a sweet treat or salty snack to donate to the treat buffet, with a friendly reminder to leave anything containing nuts at home.
Elementary Parent Observations: Parents are welcome to email elementary@lyonsgate.ca to arrange a classroom observation time, at least one week in advance please. Observations take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings between 9:00-11:30. (Other days and times may be available if needed). You will be observing the whole Elementary environment and classroom, not solely your own child.
