Building Joyful Connections at Grace Preschool: A Year Full of Fun and Fellowship!

We are so excited to kick off an amazing 41st year at Grace Lutheran Preschool! As we begin a brand-new school year, our hearts are full of joy and excitement for all the wonderful things God has in store for our preschool families. Our goal is to create a Christ-centered space where children feel loved, families feel connected, and learning is filled with joy.

At Grace Preschool, we do not just teach letters and numbers — we nurture little hearts, build social emotional skills and lasting friendships, and grow our preschoolers in Christ’s love.

This year, we have planned some wonderful events to bring families together and strengthen our preschool and church community----together celebrating faith, fun, and friendship all year long!

Here is a glimpse of what is ahead:

🌟 Meet the Teacher

A warm welcome before the first day! Little ones and their families get to explore their new classroom, meet their teacher, and start building special relationships that make preschool so meaningful.

🙏 Welcome Back Sanctuary Time & Blessing of the Stuffies

Our first chapel time is always something to cherish! We gather in the sanctuary to welcome our families back, and children are invited to bring their favorite stuffed animals to be blessed — a sweet and symbolic reminder that God cares for all His creatures, big and small.

🧺 Welcome Back Picnic

An after-preschool get-together of laughter, games, and a picnic in the Preschool Circle! This event is all about reconnecting, meeting new friends, and kicking off the year with our loving community.

🎭 Monthly Dress-Up & Spirit Days

Always a preschool favorite for the children, teachers, and church staff! Whether it is Pajama Day, Storybook Character Day, Sports Jersey Day, these themed dress-up days bring out big smiles and allow our children to express themselves in playful and creative ways.

🌿 Friday Outdoor Activity Group (with Families!)

Once a month on Fridays, families are invited to join us for fun outdoor activities — nature walks at Johnson Farm and Carl Sandburg, sidewalk chalk art, riding bikes on the Ecusta Trail and Oklawaha Trail, etc. It is a time for fresh air, fellowship, and shared experiences that build community.

🎄 Las Posadas

One of our most favorite traditions at Grace, Las Posadas is a beautiful reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s journey. The children bring the story of Christmas to life with singing, costumes, and celebration, reminding us of the hope and wonder of Christ’s birth.

🍩 Donuts with Dad & 🌸 Mother’s Day Tea

These beloved events celebrate the special people in our children’s lives. Dads are treated to donuts with their children and our Mother’s Day Tea is a sweet and sentimental gathering to honor our amazing moms.

Through every event and activity, our goal is simple: to create a Christ-centered environment where children feel safe, loved, and inspired — and where families can connect and grow together in faith.

We cannot wait to see what God will do in and through our preschool community this year. Please join us for any activity above. We are so thankful to you for being part of this joyful journey!

With love and blessings,

Beth Ann Lehr

Grace Preschool Director