From the Desk of Aly B.
When the Moon and the Sun Meet as Friends
Just recently, you might have been one of the millions who witnessed the Total Solar Eclipse on Monday April 8, 2024. From our hub, at Growing Sound Play and Learn, we were able to witness about 99.7%. And it was cool. It was STEM learning at its finest as the moon passed in front of the sun. But there was so much social-emotional learning going on as well. Those who feared conspiracy theories were challenged with courage. Those who couldn’t see it because of clouds were challenged with disappointment. Those who were able to share the experience for the first time felt joy. Those who shared it with friends, family, neighbors. and coworkers felt a sense of belonging. So many emotions on a day where the moon and the sun meet as friends in our great universe, even for just a short while. This inspires awe and helps us immerse ourselves in an experience outside of our own selves. Friendships are somewhat like that as well. While some friendships are brief, we can’t stop thinking about the value of real human friendships that form and the impact they can have here on Earth.
April traditionally has been designated as Month of the Young Child. NAEYC (National Association of the Education of Young Children) goes as far as recognizing a full week called Week of the Young Child #WOYC2024 where each day has a specific focus. Music Monday (obviously) is one of our favorites as thousands of classrooms around the world sing Growing Sound songs. This is followed by Tasty Tuesday, Artsy Thursday, and Family Engagement Friday. But it is Work Together Wednesday that brings us back to those lingering human relationships. When your hand meets my hand, and your voice meets my voice. We find new ways to communicate with each other to accomplish tasks big and small and develop relationships; short term and long term.
What were your takeaways from the Great North American Eclipse? Was it just about the fun eye-protecting glasses? Did you eat a Milky Way or maybe a Moon Pie? Did you beat your emotional challenges? Did you meet a friend? You’ll have time to think about it because they say the next total solar eclipse with a coast-to-coast path spanning the lower 48 states won’t occur until August 2045. And then…the moon and the sun will meet again as friends.
If you’ve got kids who are still in the “space mood” this month, check out these cute items we have available in our inventory.
- Astronaut Doll with Rattle (birth-age 2)
- Spaceship Play Puzzle (3-6)
- Space Quest Build a Story Cards (6-8)
Of course, if you ever want to drop us a note you can do so via email, or through our contact page. We welcome your feedback, comments, collaborations, and encouragement. info@gsplayandlearn.com