*SEASONAL NEWSLETTER*
September 2026 | Title: Roots of Respect
Subject: "Migration and Animal Behavior"
Focus: Respect for Self, Space, and Others—making space for simplicity
The Month's Invitations:
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September 2 – Early Childhood Educators’ Day Celebrating those who nurture the roots of lifelong learning.
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September 4 – S.E.E.D Training CLOSED
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September 5 – National Play Outside Day Observed the first Saturday of every month—a gentle nudge to step into nature, together.
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September 7 – Labor Day CLOSED in honor of rest and recognition.
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September 11 – A Day of Remembrance Honoring lives lost and the enduring call to unity.
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September 19 – National Day of Play A celebration of joyful movement, imagination, and connection.
All Month
– National Preparedness Month Inviting families to reflect on readiness, resilience, and stewardship.
– Good Manners Month A time to model kindness, courtesy, and community care.
Special Snack
September 25 – Caramel Apples for Johnny Appleseed Day
Dress-Up Days 9/14-18
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9/14: NFL Jersey (Monday Night Football)
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9/15: Dress like your favorite book character
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9/16: Wacky Wednesday
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9/17: Wear for your favorite color day
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9/18: Apple colors/Johnny Appleseed (Preschool=red, Toddler=green, Infants=yellow)
October 2026 | Title: Story Sparks & Family Firelight
Subject: "Falling Leaves and Tree Cycles"
Focus: Storytelling, Language Exploration, Literacy—honoring simple joys of language
Monthly Invitations:
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Fire Truck Visit 10/9 – A hands-on moment to meet community helpers and explore fire safety.
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October 4-10 – Fire Safety Week A week to practice preparedness and honor those who keep us safe.
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October 12 – Columbus Day A civic observance inviting reflection on history, exploration, and evolving narratives.
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October 13th – Stepping Stones Business Anniversary (Serena and Christel)
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October 31 – Halloween A playful celebration of imagination, costumes, and community joy.
🍂 October 1st Family Fun Event 4:30-6:30pm at Arboretum - centers will CLOSE at 4pm – A cherished Stepping Stones tradition, first celebrated October 13, 2008—a time for laughter, connection, and seasonal delight.
All Month
– National Book Month Celebrating stories that spark curiosity, empathy, and lifelong learning.
Special Snack
October 30 – Halloween Trail Mix
Dress-Up Days 10/27-31
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10/26: Pumpkin Patch Monday (Orange)
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10/27: White Ghost Tuesday (White)
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10/28: Witchy Wednesday (Purple/Green)
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10/29: Black Bat Thursday (Black)
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10/30: Halloween Costume Parade! (Bring your labeled costume in a bag please—DO NOT wear it to childcare.)
November 2026 | Title: Brave Boundaries
Subject: "Harvest and Gratitude"
Focus: Risky Play & Emotional Safety—simplicity in boundaries and care
Monthly Invitations:
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November 7 – MN DNR Hunting Traditions A Stepping Stones Family Tradition.
We honor this seasonal rhythm with reverence and respect—recognizing hunting not only as a cultural tradition, but as a practice of stewardship, nourishment, and connection to the land. Through storytelling, nature walks, and reflective play, children learn that food comes from the Earth, and that gratitude begins with understanding.
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November 11 – Veterans Day – CLOSED Honoring those who have served and reflecting on courage and community.
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November 8–13 – Winter Hazard Awareness Week Observed in Minnesota and Wisconsin—inviting readiness, warmth, and seasonal stewardship.
Winter Hazard Awareness Week in Minnesota and Wisconsin
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November 26 – Thanksgiving – CLOSED A day to gather in gratitude and rest.
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November 27 – CLOSED Continuing our tradition of post-holiday rest and reflection.
S.E.E.D. Training Day and Holiday Party 11-11-26 (Veterans Day)
All Month
– Child Safety Month A time to nurture emotional safety, brave boundaries, and protective care.
Special Snack
November 25 – Pumpkin Pie for Thanksgiving
Dress-Up Days 11/16-20
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11/16: Camo Day
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11/17: Hunting/Blaze Orange Day
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11/18: Hunter Hat Day
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11/19: Flannel Day
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11/20: PJ and Stuffed Animal Day