Lyonsgate Update April 14, 2025
Good Morning Lyonsgate Families,
This coming weekend is the Easter (very) long weekend. Both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed on Good Friday, April 18, and on Easter Monday, April 21.
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Hello Toddler Families,
Flower Arranging is an integral part of the Montessori pedagogy. This activity is steeped in sensory learning as children feel the stiff stems and soft petals of the flower, delight in filling up pitchers with water, and choosing which colourful blooms to put together. The child then takes a doily and finds a special place in the classroom to place their arrangement, enjoying the flower’s scent as it fills the classroom. This activity aids in the development of hand-eye coordination and refinement of fine motor skills. A sense of order and joy are instilled in the child as they feel purpose in taking care of and beautifying their environment. Thank you to our families for signing up for flower donations; it is a meaningful activity that is enjoyed and appreciated by all.
Vanessa Findlay.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
April showers bring… Sometimes snow!
It’s hard to believe we are halfway through April. Where did March go? The children have been excited to tell us about their March break adventures and the upcoming long weekend. The classroom has returned to its regular hum, and the children happily work on activities they missed during the break. They have grown and become more independent with dressing skills, social interactions, and problem-solving.
With the weather changing daily, we encourage dressing in layers and looking ahead to the weather forecast. Snow pants are great for keeping warm but not good when it’s wet out. Splash pants are great for the rain but aren’t usually very warm. Sometimes, light little gloves can help keep their hands warm when it can be chilly in the morning. It’s a challenging season for dressing our children, but we will do our best to ensure they are comfortable throughout the day.
I’d also encourage families to take time out and look around. The grass is turning green, crocuses have come up from the ground, and trees have many buds. We have also seen the activities of the squirrels around us and listened to the birds as they prepare their nest to hopefully have babies when the weather gets a little warmer.
Thank you so much for sharing your children with us and allowing us the privilege to watch them grow.
Ms. Canessa.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
The students had a wonderful time last week working on their stick-handling skills at their first P.E. classes with Raya, enjoying relays, games such as knock-out or treasure hunters, as well as an around-the-world challenge. Studies in ecology also continued, with explorations of biodegradability and air pollution, and the study of different types of maps. The children were delighted to hear stories of the first Passover, and to learn a song about the ten plagues of Egypt. We are looking forward to some spring crafting this week as we head toward the long weekend and celebrations of Passover and Easter. Crocheting and knitting continue to be very popular in the classroom, and we will happily accept donations of any stray balls of yarn leftover from family projects to keep their needles working!
Warmly,
Marissa and Michelle.
Wednesday, April 16: Upper Elementary P.E. Outing – Ultimate Frisbee
The Upper Elementary students will travel by public bus to visit Dundas Valley Montessori School for a fun-filled day of community building and ultimate frisbee. Students in Years 4–6 should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt, litterless lunch and water bottle, and Presto card or bus fare. The group will leave campus at 8:45 a.m. sharp to travel by public bus to Dundas, and will not return to campus until dismissal time.
Wednesday, April 23: Upper Elementary Outing – LIVELab at McMaster University
The Upper Elementary students will be visiting the LIVELab at McMaster University, a research-based performance theatre with acoustic controls to replicate different types of venues, as well as technology to measure the neurological activity and physical responses of performers. Students in Years 4–6 should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt, and Presto card or bus fare.
Lyonsgate Update April 7, 2025
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
Last week was a wild weather week, and the temperature is forecast to remain variable this week. Please check the forecast each morning to make sure your Lyonsgate students are prepared for the conditions.
We are also asking that the following items are not placed in student backpacks and are handed to staff at drop off:
- medication
- tuition cheques and payments
- snacks or other outside food
- the following non-medication items for Casa and Toddler only: moisturizer, lip balm, insect repellant, hand sanitizer, diaper cream
There are Ministry required forms that must be submitted before we can administer or accept medications, outside food, or non-medication items. Please view the Parent Form Portal here. Thank you so much.
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Photo Gallery [No Casa or Toddler photo gallery this week; be sure to see what the Elementary students were up to]
Hello Toddler Families!
This past week, we have been through many weather changes! We have found ourselves chatting with the children about the weather, as we have seen what felt like all four seasons this week! We have seen cloudy, rainy, sunny, and even snowy days!
The children love climbing the Learning Tower or just looking out the window to see what the environment is like outside. We have also seen some children that enjoy reporting it to the class and/or teachers! We have also been having conversations about the changes in the weather and relating appropriate clothing for each condition, as well as having conversations about if we will be having an inside or outside recess. Within the Toddler class, weather is no small talk. There is so much to talk about!
With the change in weather comes a need for different outerwear. Just a friendly reminder to please label all of your toddlers items.
Have a great week!
Ms. Relic.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
Bonjour les Parents,
Comme mentionné précédemment, je suis l’assistante en français de vos enfants et c’est toujours un plaisir de travailler avec eux. Au cours des dernières semaines, j’ai eu l’opportunité de les accompagner dans l’apprentissage de la langue française à travers plusieurs thèmes variés et stimulants.
Nous avons abordé des sujets tels que la famille, les couleurs, ainsi que le vocabulaire de manière générale.
Par ailleurs, nous avons également travaillé sur le vocabulaire des animaux, et pour rendre l’apprentissage plus ludique et interactif, nous avons chanté des chansons populaires en français, telles que “La souris verte”, “L’alouette” et bien d’autres. Ces chansons ont non seulement facilité l’apprentissage de nouveaux mots, mais ont aussi permis aux enfants de s’amuser tout en consolidant leur mémorisation.
Au plaisir de continuer à accompagner vos enfants dans leur apprentissage du français.
Cordialement,
Lilia Hammouche.
Assistante en français Casa South.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
Despite a week of wild weather changes, the students were eager to work outdoors, whether it was to take care of the yard, practice P.E. skills, or sketch and read in the spring breeze. They are eagerly anticipating many cultural lessons, projects, outings, and events in the coming weeks. Please keep a close eye on these weekly updates for lots of fun in the coming months, including the annual food drive, spring field trip, and cultural fair!
Warmly,
Marissa and Michelle.
Friday, April 11: O.W.L. Workshop # 7: Reproduction and Staying Healthy
Students in Years 4–6 are kindly reminded to complete Home Link #6 and the preparatory readings for the next O.W.L. workshops on “Reproduction and Staying Healthy.”
Wednesday, April 16: Upper Elementary P.E. Outing – Ultimate Frisbee
The Upper Elementary students have been invited to visit Dundas Valley Montessori School for a day of physical education and community building! The children will learn the basics of ultimate frisbee, enjoy a picnic lunch, and then break into teams for a round-robin of games. Students in Years 4 6 should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt, litterless lunch and water bottle, and Presto card or bus fare. The group will leave campus at 8:45 a.m. sharp to travel by public bus to Dundas, and will not return to campus until dismissal time.
Wednesday, April 23: Upper Elementary Outing – LIVELab at McMaster University
The Upper Elementary students will be visiting the LIVELab at McMaster University, a research-based performance theatre with acoustic controls to replicate different types of venues, as well as technology to measure the neurological activity and physical responses of performers. Students in Years 4–6 should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt, and Presto card or bus fare.
Lyonsgate Update March 31, 2025
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
A message from Ms. Craigie:
Dear Families,
As I prepare for my maternity leave, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the past five years. It has been an absolute privilege to care for and guide your children throughout their journeys here at Lyonsgate. The laughter, milestones, and special moments we’ve shared will always hold a special place in my heart.
I want to thank each and every one of you for trusting me with your beautiful children and allowing me to be a part of their early years. While this goodbye is bittersweet, I will cherish the memories we’ve made together. I wish you and your families all the best in future.
With love and appreciation,
Ms./Mme Craigie.
Spring Term Dates to Note:
- Friday, April 18: Good Friday, both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
- Monday, April 21: Easter Monday, both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
- Thursday, May 8 and 15: Casa students moving to Elementary next year have afternoon visits to the Elementary campus.
- Friday, May 16: PD Day, both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
- Monday, May 19: Victoria Day, both Lyonsgate campuses closed.
- Friday, June 6: Parent-Teacher conferences, both Lyonsgate campuses closed to students (childcare available during your conference).
- Thursday, June 19: last day of school and Elementary graduation.
- Friday, June 20: Family park day and Casa graduation.
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Hello Toddler Families and Welcome Spring!
It was so good to get back to routine last week and to see so many smiling faces. Toddlers who left for the break talking with one or two words returned using sentences and suddenly the materials on some higher up shelves are easily reached. Growth is happening all around us as we embrace warmer days and shorter nights. With all this new growth comes the inevitable need for new boots, shoes, jackets and sweatshirts. A friendly reminder to please label all of these new (or new to you) items.
If you’re doing some Spring cleaning at home and you have any gardening, sports, cooking, or travel magazines that you are looking to recycle please send them in!
Vanessa Findlay.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
Avec l’arriveé du printemps et du beau temps …ooops, il pleut. Our Casa North students have been learning to tell the weather in French:
“Quel temps fait-il?”
What’s the weather?:
“il y a du soleil, il y a des nuages, il y a du vent, il pleut, il neige, etc.
As the children report daily on the weather they become aware of what they need to wear. They are able to decide if a sweater is needed or if they don’t need gloves. We try to go outside with all their outside clothing, but maybe this time of year their gloves or hat are in their pocket.
We have also been asking the question, “Si tu étais un animal, quel animal serais-tu?” [If you were an animal, which animal would you be?]
We are singing a couple of songs: “Un Petit Pouce Qui Danse” and “Pirouette, Cacahuète.”
And we have been reading the following books:
Stella — Raconte-moi une Histoire, by Marie-Louise Gay.
Bonjour Sacha.
Hop! Au lit! by Nichloas Oldland.
Je ne Veux pas Être une Grenouille, by Dev Petty.
Bonne Semaine à tous,
Mme Murati.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
It was wonderful to have the children back in the classroom last week, full of energy and chatter, and excitement for the final term of the school year! The children returned to new explorations in biology, with younger students learning about the body systems of birds. Older students started ecology studies with a demonstration of how human civilizations affect their natural environment through their proximity to and use of waterways. They were excited to observe and discuss the movement of water “polluted” by debris and food dye to different areas, including the soil and air. For P.E., the students who attended kick-boxing had the opportunity to try their new skills in a sparring match against their sensei, while others were eager to practice some stick-handling skills for hockey.
We would also like to welcome Cian Ralph, a former Montessori student and recent graduate of Westdale Secondary School, who will be volunteering once a week at the Elementary campus during the third term. Cian will be supporting older students through an extended, collaborative language project to develop their writing and publishing skills, as he prepares for university and future careers as an author and teacher.
Have a great week!
Marissa and Michelle.
with photos by Akasha and Leo.
Thursday, April 3: Kick-boxing at UFMA for Years 4-6
Upper elementary students will have their final kick-boxing session at UFMA this Thursday, April 3. Students should be prepared for a workout with comfortable pants or shorts and their red Lyonsgate t-shirt.
Friday, April 4: O.W.L. Workshop #6 for Years 4-6
Upper elementary students are kindly reminded to complete their O.W.L. reading assignment before their first workshop on Feelings and Attractions.
Lyonsgate Update March 3, 2025
Good Morning Lyonsgate Families,
While the winter term is the shortest term of the school year, it was certainly the most adventuresome this year with a surprise Friday afternoon blizzard, a surprise snow/ice day, more snow than we’ve seen in years, some deep freezes, and a taste of spring warmth. Through it all, your children at all Montessori levels, from the youngest Toddler to the oldest Elementary students, have handled it all with grace and joy. Thank you.
Enjoy a much-deserved March Break starting next week Lyonsgate students! Rest, travel, play, and we can’t wait to see you all again for the spring term on Monday, March 24.
Elementary Art Show: TODAY! Monday, March 3 (see the Elementary section for details)
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Hello Toddler Families,
Our recent Professional Development day was one filled with learning and staff engagement. We were fortunate to participate in a session on Autism Spectrum Disorder, a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Our toddler team was also able to meet to discuss the children, their current skills, next stages of development, and how we can support them emotionally. We were able to give our classroom an (early) Spring cleaning and tune up as we installed hooks for materials, fixed wobbly table legs, reorganized storage shelves, and tidied paperwork. New materials were made, and the classroom has been invigorated with different tasks and new opportunities for exploration and learning.
Vanessa Findlay.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
Good Morning Casa Families,
I hope that everyone’s is doing well as we head into our last week before the end of the winter term and we head into spring. A quick reminder that next week the school will be closed for March break and we will return on March 24.
These days the weather can be unpredictable, which means we need to make sure that all our friends are coming to school with all their gear depending on the weather. Remember that outdoor activities are a big part of our day at Lyonsgate and we encourage each friend to get themselves ready to go outside. Practicing getting their outdoor gear on at home will help to make their day at school go much smoother, and is a great way to help foster independence and give them confidence to know they can do it on their own.
As always, thank you for your continued support, we appreciate it very much.
Wishing each family a wonderful week,
Ms. Houston.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
Last week, the Elementary students learned about the provincial electoral system and participated in a mock student election along with more than 1,800 other schools representing all 124 electoral districts in Ontario. Our youngest students practiced choosing a representative to help make decisions and rules for everyone based on their ideas, and learned how a secret ballot works. Older students were eager to learn about specific platform promises and key issues for the candidates in Hamilton Centre, and naturally ended up in lively conversations as they tried to persuade classmates to adopt their own priorities and point-of-view. After exploring political ads and discussing the basics of strategic voting, the eldest students were proud to take charge of running the mock-election. They prepared voter lists and identification cards, reviewed the rules governing polling stations, and took on the roles of poll clerks, deputy returning officers, and even scrutineers. Everyone had a lot of fun!
In the Student Vote, both our class and a wider cohort of students in Hamilton Centre elected the NDP to represent the electoral district, while the full provincial results saw the PC Party form the government with the NDP as the opposition. Check out more detailed results for our school, Hamilton Centre, or any other electoral district with your child at Student Vote Ontario 2025 Results.
Elementary Art Show: TODAY! Monday, March 3
The students are excited to welcome their family to view displays of their recent work at the Elementary Art Show. Featured works will include pieces from recent studies of the Group of Seven, as well as art work created in connection with other curriculum areas and independent research. Casa children and parents are also welcome to come by and see the show. Visitors are welcome to arrive anytime between 3:15 and 4:15, with the art show closing at 4:30. We hope to see you there!
Community Outing: Thursday, March 6
The upper elementary students will be traveling by public bus during the afternoon work cycle to visit the McCallion Planetarium at McMaster University. The group will be attending a presentation called “Lost at Sea,” to learn about navigation at night. Students should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt, as well as their Presto card or bus fare.
Lyonsgate Update Feb. 24, 2025
Good Morning Lyonsgate Community,
This Friday, Feb. 28, is a PD Day and both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed.
It is forecast to be a soggy week as temperatures rise and all that snow starts to melt (with a possibility of rain in the forecast too!). Please see the reminders from the Casa and Toddler staff below about extra clothes, weather appropriate gear, and the need to please label everything.
See the Elementary section to learn how they are participating in this week’s Provincial election, and for an invitation for all Lyonsgate families to their upcoming art show.
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Our Canadian winter is once again proving to be an incredible learning tool. The toddlers are learning a choreographed dance of putting on their winter gear. Pulling up stiff snowsuits with zippers and straps, balancing as they put their feet into thick boots, putting on neck warmers, hats, and mittens. This is when we see all the motor skills work and repetition done with our dressing frames begin to pay off.
Outside, the children navigate snow piles that are up to their waist one day and that the next they can walk up and down with ease. They push the snow around with their shovels and delight in making their own slides as they climb up and roll down our “hill filled” playground. And then we return inside to repeat our winter gear dance again but in reverse …and sometimes wet. Thank you for providing extra sets of mittens, socks, and toques!
Vanessa Findlay.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
It has been very cold these past couple of weeks. The children have loved playing in the snow at recess, but some of them have been very cold not having the proper gear on. Please be sure that you’re checking the weather for the whole day and that your child is dressed appropriately. They spend at least an hour outside each day and if they aren’t moving around they get cold quickly. With all the extra gear your children are wearing, please be sure to label everything as they can get mixed up in the shuffle of things. It is always great to send in extra sweaters to leave at school for if your child gets cold in the classroom as we don’t have extras to provide them. Extra socks are also great to have this time of year as the children’s feet sometimes get wet from playing outside.
Reminder that if your child has borrowed any Lyonsgate clothing to please return it back to the school. We are running low on our extra supplies. Thank you.
The Casa Team.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
Weekly Update
What a wonderful week of snowy adventures we’ve had! The children were thrilled to strike a balance between cozy indoor recreation times on extremely cold days and to dive into the snow to make elaborate forts and snow figures on the slightly warmer days. In geography, some children learned about the composition of the Earth and its distinct layers. Others were hearing tales of the map-making voyages of Captain Cook, and were saddened to learn that many explorers never made it back home. As the students gain a deeper understanding of the immense size and complexity of our planet, they also develop awe and gratitude for the courageous and inquisitive humans that have sought to understand their place in the world in the face of great adversity. Wishing you a lovely week ahead!
Marissa and Michelle.
(photos this week from Charly S., Marissa, and Claire)
Karate at UFMA: Tuesday, February 25
Students in Years 1-3 will return to the dojo on Tuesday afternoon for karate, and should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and comfortable pants for physical activity.
Kick-boxing at UFMA: Thursday, February 27
Students in Years 4-6 will continue their kick-boxing classes on Thursday afternoon, and should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and comfortable pants for physical activity.
Student Vote: Thursday, February 27
All Lyonsgate Elementary students will have the opportunity to learn about the democratic process by participating in the Student Vote version of the Ontario provincial election. Students at all levels will be introduced to the different levels of government and the four main political parties in Ontario in lessons leading up to election day. They will participate in a mock-election, and compare the results of the Ontario-wide Student Vote with the results of the actual election.
Elementary Art Show: Monday, March 3
The students are excited to welcome their families to view displays of their recent work at the Elementary Art Show. Featured works will include pieces from recent studies of the Group of Seven, as well as art work created in connection with other curriculum areas and independent research. Casa children and parents are also welcome to come by and see the show! Visitors are welcome to arrive anytime between 3:15 and 4:15, with the art show closing at 4:30.
Community Outing: Thursday, March 6
The upper elementary students will be traveling by public bus during the afternoon work cycle to visit the McCallion Planetarium at McMaster University. The group will be attending a presentation called “Lost at Sea” to learn about navigation at night. Students should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt, as well as their Presto card or bus fare.
Lyonsgate Update Feb. 18, 2025
Good Morning Lyonsgate Families,
It was so nice to see so many Lyonsgate students arriving this morning. Between sickness and snowstorms the last couple of weeks have been out of the ordinary, to say the least. We hope you all had a great Family Day long weekend and were able to get out and play in the snow (rather than just shovel it and drive through it). It has been wonderful to have lots of snow on the playground and at the park for the students to play with, and in. The last couple of years have seen a dearth of snow, so while the snow days, freezing temperatures, and shoveling are an annoying inconvenience for grown-ups, a playground and a park full of snow has been joyful for the Lyonsgate students.
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
There is no photo gallery from the Primary campus this week, but please visit the Elementary section to see what they have been up to.
Hello Toddler Families,
This past week, the Toddler students have been working on gross motor skills through both outdoor play and during the work cycle. During outdoor play, the children have worked hard on building with the snow! Some children have shovelled piles for other children to use the snow for their block maker. Some children have made a snow hill to balance on. While other have been running in the snow to see how far they can make it on the playground. During the work cycle, your toddlers have been building gross motor skills by sitting in the middle of the room to see if they can throw a bean bag into the triangle that is taped by the door. They are also enjoying songs like "Hokey Pokey," "Jump Jump," and "Shake Your Sillies Out" to get their motor skills working!
Ms.Kubiak.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
Greetings from Casa,
We are obviously in full on winter weather and look to be so for some time to come, to the delight of anyone who doesn’t have to make use of a shovel. Children particularly enjoy great piles of snow when they are properly dressed for the cold and sometimes wet conditions. While at school and preparing for outdoor times they find it helpful to have an order to putting on the many layers of necessary clothing: snow pants first, then jackets, followed by hats, mitts and lastly boots. They learn that it is almost impossible to zip their jacket with mitts on, although they will try!
As you can imagine, it takes some time for 24 children to prepare for this transition. We do our best to allow enough time for this to happen as we encourage independence with dressing themselves. Some days take longer than others, but with time and practise they are becoming more adept at preparing for winter in Canada.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
Although the snow day was a highlight of last week for many children, while at school, the students were very busy with a variety of activities! Studies in geography continued, with the story of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, and on-going work with the world map. Explorations of Canadian history saw many groups working together to further understand the impact of Jacques Cartier's voyages and the emergence of a strong fur trade between North America and Europe. Different groups are now preparing a timeline of Canadian history through the 1600s, a skit about Inuit culture, and advertisements for the best beaver hats to communicate what they have learned with their peers. Some of our younger students have been learning about different biomes, researching the climate, flora, and fauna of distinct habitats. Everyone has been learning more about the Canadian landscape by looking at paintings from the Group of Seven, and taking inspiration from Lawren Harris and Tom Thomson. Join us after school on Monday, March 3, for an exhibition of the students' artwork!
Karate at United Family Martial Arts: Tuesday, February 18
Students in Years 1-3 will return to the dojo on Tuesday afternoon for karate, and should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and comfortable pants for physical activity.
Kick-Boxing at United Family Martial Arts: Thursday, February 20
Students in Years 4-6 hope to begin their kick-boxing classes on Thursday afternoon, and should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and comfortable pants for physical activity. No snow-day dances on Wednesday night, please!
O.W.L. Workshop 5, Part 2, Gender: Friday, February 21
Students in Years 4-6 will be continuing with the fifth O.W.L. workshop this week, and are reminded to complete the required readings listed at the end of Homelink 4.
Elementary Art Show: Monday, March 3
The students are eager to welcome their family members to view displays of their recent work at the Elementary Art Show. Featured works will include pieces from recent studies of the Group of Seven, as well as art work created in connection with other curriculum areas and independent research. Casa children and parents are also welcome to come by and see the show! Visitors are welcome to arrive anytime between 3:15 and 4:15, with the art show closing at 4:30.
Lyonsgate Update Feb. 10, 2025
Good Morning Lyonsgate Families,
Apologies again for the late notification of the snow/ice day last Thursday; that one caught us by surprise too. As a reminder, if the public school board, HWDSB, closes schools, Lyonsgate automatically closes too.
Speaking of closures, next Monday, February 17, is the Family Day statutory holiday and both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed. (Lyonsgate will also be closed on Friday, Feb. 28, for a PD Day).
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
This week, your toddlers are working really hard on their motor skills. The toddlers are exploring their fine motor skills through a few new lessons we have placed in our practical life area. Children are loving dumping a tray of buttons into taped shapes on the floor. Once they dump the tray, they use a dust pan and broom to sweep up the buttons and repeat as many time as they engage for. The toddlers are also enjoying stringing pasta onto a string. This activity allows children to practice numeracy by counting how many pasta pieces can fit on the string. The children are also learning how to grasp an object and put it onto another object, and they are learning to follow a process to achieve a finished product.
Ms. Kubiak.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
The last few days around the school have been a little quieter than usual. It truly looks like the cold and flu season has arrived. We have been busy preparing the children for this season since September. Sammy Sneezy made his appearance to teach the children about the importance of covering our coughs and using a tissue to wipe or blow our noses. The children have also been practising handwashing skills. The staff has prepared the classroom by cleaning daily with soap and water, and diluted bleach at night. Even with the most diligent practices, it’s very typical to get ill. Please refer to the school website for illness protocols. We appreciate all the care our families show by keeping children who are sick at home. It helps ensure we teachers remain healthy and at school, and slows the spread of germs amongst the children.
We look forward to full classrooms again.
Ms. Canessa.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
Despite the surprise snow day last week, the students managed to pack a lot of learning and adventure into just a few days. All students have been learning about the history of Canada, with some focusing on the arrival of Vikings and some investigating diverse Indigenous cultures across Turtle Island, while others are learning about the importance of the fur trade. The upper elementary group had a great time visiting the McMaster Museum of Art for the new exhibition “Ascending Horizons,” where they saw a series of traditional corn husk dolls to illustrate the creation story of the Haudenosaunee, moving sculptures, and a mixed media piece incorporating photography and real beaver fur. The lower elementary group had a lot of fun at the karate dojo, learning the fundamentals and blocking a surprise attack from the sensei!
Marissa and Michelle.
Karate at United Family Martial Arts: Tuesday, February 11
Students in Years 1-3 will return to the dojo on Tuesday afternoon for karate, and should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and comfortable pants for physical activity.
Kick-Boxing at United Family Martial Arts: Thursday, February 13
Students in Years 4-6 will begin their kick-boxing classes on Thursday afternoon, and should come prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and comfortable pants for physical activity.
O.W.L. Workshop 5, Part 2, Gender: Friday, February 21
Students in Years 4-6 will be continuing with the fifth O.W.L. workshop next week, and are reminded to complete the required readings listed at the end of Homelink 4.
Lyonsgate Update Feb. 3, 2025
Hello Lyonsgate Families,
This week, the Elementary campus is hosting a Parent Education Session, “Montessori Outcomes: The Lasting Gifts of a Holistic Education,” on Thursday, Feb. 6, from 3:30-4:15. See the Elementary section for details.
Hamilton Summer Camp Info:
Registration for summer camps is underway. Here are some summer camp links for families that may be looking for summer care and activities (some also offer March Break camps):
- Stoney Creek Children’s Club is for children ages 5-13 and is operated by the former owner of Stoney Creek Montessori School. Registration is open now.
- Hamilton’s Camp Kidaca has programs for children ages 4-15; registration opens February 12 at 8:00 a.m.
- Royal Botanical Gardens hosts summer camps for children ages 5-15 and registration is open now.
- YMCA Summer Day Camps are for children ages 6-13 and registration opens at 8:00 a.m. on March 17.
- McMaster University hosts both summer sports camps and a March Break camp for children ages 6 and up; registration opens Feb. 3 (today!) at 12:00 p.m.
- Mohawk College offers summer camps for children ages 4-12 and registration opens Feb. 5 at 10:00 a.m.
- Hamilton Public Library maintains an extensive list of of summer and March Break day camps in the Hamilton area.
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Hello Toddler Families,
Our crazy Canadian winter weather of wind chill warnings and rain has kept us inside for quite a few days lately …and with that there has been the inevitable sharing of runny noses and coughs. Needless to say our focus in the Toddler room this past week has been on the practical life skill of self care, specifically wiping one’s nose.
Our classroom has a self-care table where tissues, a mirror, and garbage pail are located. Children are shown how to wipe their nose: by grasping a tissue, starting with your hands on the sides of the bridge of your nose, and to then wipe down and pinch the tissue together at the bottom of the nose. Inevitably we will see our younger toddlers hold the scrunched up tissue under their nose as they move their head side to side, but with continued support, repetition, and many, many tissues later we begin to hear the joyous “I did it!” as independence and confidence are gained.
Vanessa Findlay.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
Bonjour les Parents,
En ce mois de janvier, j’ai eu le plaisir de rejoindre l’équipe de l’école Montessori en tant qu’assistante en français. Je me présente: je m’appelle Lilia Hammouche, et j’accompagne vos enfants dans leur apprentissage de la langue en échangeant exclusivement en français avec eux.
Depuis mon arrivée, nous avons exploré différentes thématiques telles que la famille, les couleurs, et les animaux à travers diverses activités pédagogiques. Ces moments d’apprentissage sont particulièrement enrichissants, et je me réjouis de poursuivre cette belle aventure en leur proposant de nouvelles expériences adaptées à leur développement.
Mme Hammouche.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
Last week, two of our Elementary French groups performed French plays, to the delight of their classmates: the “Quiche Lorraine” group performed “Les Trois Petits Cochons” (featuring a ferocious three-headed wolf) and the “Baguette” group performed “L’Arbre Ungali,” a fable set in Africa. All cast members started learning their lines in September. Over the past two weeks, they sourced and created their own costumes, sets, and props. Now, their peers are clamouring for their own chance to perform soon. Congratulations to our wonderful actors!
Michelle M., French Specialist.
P.E. Outing to United Family Martial Arts: Tuesday, February 4 and Thursday, February 6
Through the month of February, the students will be attending P.E. classes at the dojo on Dundurn Street. Students in Years 1-3 will be attending karate classes on Tuesday afternoons, and should be prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt on Tuesday. Students in Years 4-6 will be attending kickboxing classes on Thursday afternoons, and should also be prepared with their red Lyonsgate t-shirt for P.E. classes through February.
Community Outing: Wednesday, February 5
The first upper Elementary community outing of the new year will take place on the morning of Wednesday, February 5. Students in years 4-6 will be traveling by public transit to visit the McMaster Museum of Art for a morning workshop. Students are reminded to wear their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and to bring either their Presto card or cash bus fare.
Parent Education Event: Thursday, February 6, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
Parents are invited to join Elementary guides Michelle and Marissa for a discussion of “Montessori Outcomes: The Lasting Gifts of a Holistic Education.” At our gathering, we will discuss the science of Montessori and how, through personalized instruction and non-traditional assessment, students develop enduring traits such as curiosity, self-motivation, and a life-long love of learning.
Please email elementary@lyonsgate.ca with how many adults are planning to attend, and whether you require Casa or Elementary child care that day, by Tuesday, February 4. We look forward to seeing you soon!
O.W.L. Workshop 5, Part 1, Gender: Friday, February 7
Students in Years 4-6 will be beginning the next O.W.L. workshop this week, and are reminded to complete the required readings to prepare. The reading assignment can be found at the end of Homelink 4. 🙂
Lyonsgate Update Jan. 27, 2025
Good Morning Lyonsgate Families,
Well, that was a cold week. We all spent a lot of time indoors and were very happy to get back outside, and just in time for the Elementary students’ walk to their ongoing winter phys. ed. dance classes at Elev8 Dance.
Staff Update: Lyonsgate is bidding a fond farewell to Ms. Duhig and her family as they move at the end of this month. Not only will we miss Ms. Duhig on staff, and her ability to help wherever and whenever needed, but we will also miss her three wonderful children who have become valued members of our community. We wish them all the best in their new adventures.
Ms. Carly Sella will be taking on the Support Role at Lyonsgate. We look forward to you and your family getting to know her better in the months to come.
Missing Materials: Many Montessori classroom materials consist of small, attractive objects that are intentionally appealing to children. If you find any “mysterious objects” in your child’s possession, please return them to school. Casa South is presently missing a cube from their Pink Tower material:
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Hello Toddler Families,
During last week, we had a lot of indoor play due to extreme cold weather. Our toddlers have really enjoyed shaking their silly’s out through dance movements and music, using balance technique by climbing through the tunnel, and learning about distance through ring toss. In our classroom work cycle, our toddlers are still enjoying smelling and exploring flowers and plants. The children are learning about different textures by exploring the flowers from petals to the stem. They are also touching our different plants’ leaves to see how they feel. This activity enhances their 5 senses! Just a reminder please label all your child’s clothing. Thank you.
Ms.Kubiak.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
Chers Parents,
We experienced some very cold weather last week and the Casa North students were learning the names of different items of clothing en français. (Don’t forget the water bottle — “N’oubliez pas la bouteille d’eau”). The third year students are working on different vocabulary of words that sound similar, but mean different things (ex. manteau, mouton, et menton — jacket, sheep, chin.
We have also been working on different phrases:
- je m’apelle, je suis {une fille | un garçon}, j’ai 5 ans (age), j’habite à Hamilton.
- je m’apelle (name), j’ai une maman, un papa, une soeur (sister), un frère (brother), une grand-mère, un grand-père [family members], et un chien, un chat, un serpent, etc.
We have also been reading the book, A Family is a Family, to learn about different types of family structures in French.
The songs we have been singing recently include:
- “Un éléphant”
- “Une souris verte” (“Little Green Mouse,” and a related craft will be coming home soon).
Lyonsgate Montessori Casa student completing a French activity based on a song they have been singing.
Bonne semaine à vous,
Mme Murati.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
P.E. at Elev8 Dance: Thursday, January 30
All elementary students will travel to Elev8 Dance during the afternoon work cycle for indoor P.E. Students are kindly reminded to remember their red Lyonsgate t-shirts for their last dance session this term.
Community Outing: Wednesday, February 5
The first Upper Elementary community outing of the new year will take place on the morning of Wednesday, February 5. Students in years 4-6 will be traveling by public transit to visit the McMaster Museum of Art for a morning workshop. Students are reminded to wear their red Lyonsgate t-shirt and to bring either their Presto card or cash bus fare.
Parent Education Event: Thursday, February 6, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
Parents are invited to join Elementary guides Michelle and Marissa for a discussion of “Montessori Outcomes: The Lasting Gifts of a Holistic Education.” At our gathering, we will discuss the science of Montessori and how through personalized instruction and non-traditional assessment, students develop enduring traits such as curiosity, self-motivation, and a life-long love of learning.
Please email elementary@lyonsgate.ca with how many adults are planning to attend, and whether you require Casa or Elementary child care that day, by Tuesday, February 4. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Lyonsgate Update January 20, 2025
Good Morning Lyonsgate Families,
We had some snow, finally, for your Lyonsgate Montessori kids to play with last week. It was great to finally be able to put the winter materials to use outside at the Primary campus, and there was a lot of shoveling and building during recess.
This Friday, Jan. 24, is a PD Day and both Lyonsgate campuses will be closed.
Free Piano: the Primary campus building has a piano that is free for the taking to anyone able to move it; please let us know if your family would like to own it:
Please click the links below for updates from your children’s levels and for recent photos at Lyonsgate:
Hello Toddler Families,
Last week, we had some beautiful brightness in our classroom with our floral arrangement work; this activity is always a favourite! Filling up the water pitcher, slowly pouring the water into a chosen vase, picking the right size flower and, finally, the child finding just the right spot in the classroom to display the bouquet. This activity aids in the development of hand-eye coordination, refinement of fine motor skills, and logical sequencing. Flower arranging provides a sense of joy when taking care of and beautifying our environment. A pop of colour and fresh scent is always welcome during the winter months… a reminder of brighter, warmer days ahead!
Vanessa Findlay.
Click to view and/or sign up for Toddler flower contributions
The Casa students were very excited to see the snow last week and to finally be able to put their snowsuits to their intended use, rather than just staying warm (although that may be the priority this week!). Unfortunately, by the end of the week the snowsuits were also used to stay dry as the remaining snow turned to slush and puddles. We try to run as much wet stuff as we can through the dryer at the school in between outdoor periods. Please remember to label everything — hats, mitts & gloves, neckwarmers, boots, snowpants, and snowsuits.
Getting outside every day is an essential part of the school days at Lyonsgate. The fresh air, free play, and activity are great for all aspects of health, development, and learning. Even though we only had a dusting of snow by traditional Canadian standards, the amount of excitement and creativity from the children as they shoveled, imagined, and built was a joy to witness. We hope the temperature lets us back outside towards the end of this week, and we’ve all got our fingers crossed for more snow when we get there.
Click to book a parent observation in: Casa North | Casa South
Click to view and/or sign up for flower contributions in: Casa North | Casa South
The Elementary class was full of enthusiasm for math this week as students tackled operations, multiplication tables, rounding, square roots, and algebra! In history, some of the students were learning about the Viking voyages to the New World, while others were researching the cultural practices of the Mi’kmaq First Nation on the east coast. Many students were happy to continue their explorations in geography by hearing the “Story of the Elements,” labelling a diagram of a river, or learning about the lines of latitude and longitude. In French, some groups began preparing props and sets for their short, in-class plays, and rehearsing their lines with gusto. Despite the very chilly weather expected over the next few days, we wish you all a wonderful week ahead.
Marissa and Michelle.
(with photos by Harrison, Abby, and Marissa.)
P.E. at Elev8 Dance: Thursday, January 23
All elementary students will travel to Elev8 Dance during the afternoon work cycle for indoor P.E. Students are kindly reminded to wear their red Lyonsgate t-shirt for this outing.
P.D. Day: Friday, January 24
While the students enjoy an extra-long weekend, the Elementary team will be attending morning workshops on supporting diverse learners in Montessori classrooms, and working to prepare new materials for the children in the afternoon.
Community Outing: WEDNESDAY, February 5
Due to our P.E. schedule with Elev8 Dance through the month of January, the first upper Elementary community outing of the new year will take place on the morning of Wednesday, February 5. Students in years 4-6 will be traveling by public transit to visit the McMaster Museum of Art for a morning workshop.
