Letter to Family and Friends

Whose Person are You?

Dear Families,

Over the last couple of weeks, I have been visiting students who will begin school in 2026. This is a joyful and exciting time to get to know some of our future students as they prepare for school. Sometimes they have met me on a tour or spotted me in the classroom, and sometimes they are part of Pilgrim Playgroup and already know our space really well.

One of the most important parts of my interactions is making genuine connections -whether through drawing a picture, playing a game, sharing a smile and a wave, or chatting about what they enjoy. These moments help me quickly build trust, so when a child comes to LEAP (Little Explorers at Pilgrim), they already know me a little, and I know them. From there, we can continue to connect and learn more about each other.

At Pilgrim, our belong value is one of the first I focus on. I often remind parents that when a child feels they belong, they are more willing to take risks, grow in confidence, develop friendships, and share their thinking and learning. This, for us, is what flourishing looks like.

Connecting with our students at Playgroup - even before they begin school - is such a gift. It allows them to feel that someone will listen, greet, and truly see them. Having a trusted person at school is one of the first ways children feel safe, and once they feel safe, they also begin to feel they belong.

Jesus is our person - our Saviour, our guide, and the one who always loves us. He shows us how to love, listen, and build relationships with the people around us, whether that’s at home, at church, or at school.

So, I leave you with this simple but powerful question: Whose person are you? Who might you smile at, listen to, or encourage this week?

Blessings,

Lisa Newbury

Early Years Coordinator