As we prepare for a new school year at Gan Shalom, I find myself reflecting on the unique blend of the familiar and the new that we encounter each year. We eagerly anticipate seeing returning families and welcoming new ones, and we look forward to the familiar rhythms of our school day: circle time, snack, outdoor play, and so many wonderful moments of discovery. Yet, we know that each year is also its own adventure. The children are a little older, the teachers have new ideas, and the classroom dynamic evolves. How do we prepare our children—and ourselves—for this beautiful paradox: a new chapter that is both a fresh start and a return to what we know and love?
It seems contradictory, but the strength of our community lies in our ability to hold both realities at once. We find comfort in the familiar routines and traditions that anchor us, and these familiar touchstones are what give us the courage to embrace change. Think about a child learning to read. They might feel secure holding a favorite book with a trusted grownup, a simple act that provides a sense of warmth and consistency. This sense of security is what allows them to feel confident enough to learn new words and eventually read on their own. Our synagogue and our nursery school work in the same way, providing a foundation of love and support that enables us to grow.
Two wonderful books I love help illustrate this idea. Preschool, Here I Come! by DJ Steinberg is a delightful book that helps children feel prepared and excited about the new things they’ll experience at school, from finding their cubby to learning about circle time. It provides a concrete, reassuring look at what to expect, making the new feel familiar.
The other book, Goodbye Brings Hello: A Book of Firsts by Daniel Wiseman and Dianne White, beautifully captures the other side of this experience. It teaches children that when one thing ends, a new thing begins. It’s a book about growth, showing how a child outgrows a favorite shirt and finds a cozy new coat, or goes from holding a chunky crayon to writing their name. This book reminds us that change isn’t something to fear; it’s a natural part of growing up.
This year, as we welcome our children back to Gan Shalom, let’s remember to find comfort in our familiar routines and traditions. Let’s also be open to the new experiences and growth that lie ahead. The RSNS community is a safe and loving place where we can all learn and grow together.
Adrienne Rosen
Nursery School Director
