Mountain Network News
Celebrating life in the Santa Cruz MountainsMountain Network News

Los Gatos · Summit Road · 95033

Schools

Building Blocks Preschool

Brain Science

By Jessie Thorsen · February 2025 · Volume MMXXV, Number 2 · Page 26 · 3 min read

At Building Blocks Preschool, we play because as educators we know that play- based curriculum is supported by research. But how does a play-based curriculum in preschool support K-12 readiness? This is a guiding question at Building Blocks that we consider often.

One of our core beliefs is that supporting children in feeling connected and seen as they process a wide range of big feelings is foundational to their health and well-being, as well as K-12 readiness. Feeling connected and seen is at the heart of social-emotional learning.

Why is social-emotional learning important? Students learn to identify their feelings and communicate with others to self-advocate and manage conflict. They also learn to understand what is happening inside their bodies. These are transformational life skills that take time and space to learn and practice. They are also skills that connect to values.

At the preschool age, this looks like comforting and co-regulating with children as conflict arises through play. Our day is literally designed to give us an opportunity to practice, practice, practice. We identify feelings and boundaries, and introduce Loma Public Education Fund Happy New Year Lydia Harville The Loma Public Education Fund welcomes the new year. As you set your goals for the year, we invite you to add “Support Loma Prieta Elementary and C.T. English Middle School” to your list. Here’s how you can make a meaningful difference.

Make Monthly Donations. Contributing monthly to LPEF bolsters valuable education programs and curriculum within our schools, but your donations are also fully tax-deductible. These funds directly support essential programs and staff at our schools. Monthly donations are a vital source of funding, providing LPEF with a steady income throughout the year. Your contribution will be automatically charged to your credit card or bank account each month, and you have the flexibility to modify or cancel your gift whenever you wish.

Volunteer Opportunities. LPEF is eager to welcome enthusiastic volunteers who wish to donate their time and talents. Volunteering with LPEF is an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for our mountain schools.

Whether you’re skilled at record-keeping or have a flair for event planning, there’s a role for you. Volunteers are integral to the success of our organization. For more information on how to get involved, email president@lpef.org.

Sponsor Highlight. This month, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our gold sponsor, Alameda Family Funeral & Cremation. For over four generations, this family-owned business has supported local families in coping with the loss of a loved one. They are dedicated to providing care and service that exceeds expectations, offering experienced, professional, high- quality services. They cater to all customs, faiths, religions, and traditions, ensuring that families are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion during their most challenging times. For more information, visit www.funeralcremation.com.

A big thank you to our school families and members for your unwavering support of Loma Prieta Elementary and C.T. English Middle School. Together, we can create a positive impact on the education and future of our students in 2025 and beyond.

coping skills such as body awareness, breathing, and movement through play. If you are interested in brain science, the cornerstone to social-emotional learning, a good place to start is Dr. Dan Siegel’s research and collaborations with other experts in the field of brain science and psychology. At Building Blocks, we believe that connecting and truly seeing children has the potential to transform families, communities, and society, as well as prepare Enrollment Update. Building Blocks Preschool enrollment will be open to new families starting January 29. Building Blocks is a parent-cooperative program. The next school year will start September 2, and end We still have some space available for this school year. Children who are three or older before September 2 can enroll in the Monday/Wednesday/Friday class. Children based on income. Children do not need to For more information or to schedule a tour, visit our website at www.

buildingblockscoop.org or email teacher_ to the proud supporters of Building Blocks, whose donations contribute to our scholarship program ensuring all children on the mountain have access to early-childhood education. Supporters include Hills Construction, Akova, Prime Tree Care, Mason Tractor, Woodstove and Sun, Motorpool Automotive, Advantage Homes, Paradise Dog Boarding, Masterson Electric, Infantino Dental, Dandelion Hair Studio, Brand Vessel, Barrel Dreams, and who turn two on or before September 2 can enroll in the Tuesday/Thursday class. If your child turns two during the school year, they are eligible to enroll in the program. School days are from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There are full and partial scholarships available

Building Blocks Preschool
Building Blocks Preschool