CNS December 2025 Newsletter
Dear CNS Families,
As December settles in and the natural world slows its pace, we take a moment to reflect on the growth we’ve seen in our children during these past months. Just as trees shed their leaves and animals prepare for winter, our children have been learning, stretching, and finding their place within our community. They have grown more confident, formed meaningful friendships, and practiced kindness in ways both big and small.
This time of year brings a noticeable shift in rhythm. Days grow shorter, routines feel different, and children are especially tuned in to the changes around them. December offers us an opportunity to lean into warmth, connection, and generosity—slowing down, noticing one another, and honoring the relationships that help our children feel safe and grounded. Simple moments like rereading favorite stories, spending time outdoors, and sharing acts of kindness help anchor children during this season of transition.
As we move through this winter month together, we hope you pause to notice not only your child’s growth, but also the strength of our CNS community. The generosity, care, and collaboration that define our co-op are gifts that extend far beyond this season. Together, we are nurturing more than learners—we are growing a thoughtful, connected village. Thank you for being such an important part of it.
What’s New
A Successful Raise Craze
Thank you, CNS community! Together, you helped raise an incredible $9,080 toward building our new schoolhouse. We had 55 participants and received generous donations from 19 different states—including as far away as Hawaii!
This year was especially meaningful, as it marked the highest number of acts of kindness completed in all six years of our Raise Craze. Our toddlers led the way with the most participants and the highest amount raised, and our Preschool 4s in Mrs. Krischtschun’s class completed the most acts of kindness.
We are so grateful for the generosity, teamwork, and kindness shown by our entire CNS community!
Lace Up for Kids!
In the spirit of generosity and giving back, we’re excited to share that two local teenagers—one of whom is a proud CNS alum—have started a nonprofit to support the Ronald McDonald House. As part of their work, they are collecting gently used sneakers to recycle and raise funds for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House during challenging times.
If you have sneakers at home that are ready for a new purpose, we invite you to donate them. A collection bin is located in the breezeway. Thank you for helping our children see how small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in our wider community.
Winter Layering Reminder
As the weather grows colder, layering plays an important role in helping children stay warm, comfortable, and ready to enjoy their time outdoors at CNS. Thoughtful layers allow children to move freely, explore nature, and stay cozy through changing winter conditions.
Base Layer:
The base layer sits closest to the skin and helps trap body heat while wicking away moisture. Wool, synthetic fibers, or blended materials work best and should fit snugly. We recommend avoiding cotton, as it holds moisture and can lead to chilly bodies and cold toes. The same guidance applies to socks—wool, wool blends, alpaca blends, or synthetic blends are the best options for keeping feet warm and dry.
Middle Layer:
This layer helps trap warmth and keeps children comfortable for extended time outdoors. Fleece, wool, and synthetic blends are excellent choices. A thin puffer jacket or vest works well for the top half. Jeans and lightweight wind pants are best avoided, as they do not provide insulation.
Top Layer:
The outer layer protects children from wind, rain, snow, and moisture. Rain pants or snow pants are ideal for the bottom half—especially since children often sit on the ground or climb during play. For the top, rain jackets, windbreakers, or snow jackets create an important barrier. On many winter days, it’s the wind that makes the biggest difference, and this outer layer helps keep bodies warm and protected.
Thank you for helping us support comfortable, joyful outdoor play all winter long!
Looking to show your CNS pride? CNS swag—including t-shirts and other favorites—can be ordered using the link below. Whether for everyday wear or special community events, CNS gear is a fun way to celebrate our school and feel connected to our community.
Family Spotlight
Please be on the lookout for an email from Stephanie Fumiatti asking if you’d like to be featured on the family spotlight!
Classroom Corner
Being part of a cooperative is such a special opportunity for our students. When family members come into the classroom they bring with them their skills and talents, and everyone benefits and learns together. Recently we had a parent come in to teach the children how to make their own pasta! Sharing special traditions allows us to build community and teaches our children to value the experiences of others. Since Hanukkah has started, another parent took part of her helping day to teach the children how to play dreidel! We are so grateful to our cooperative community for helping to create such meaningful memories for our children.
Rachel Daniels, CNS Director
