October Curriculum Highlights: Exploring Helpers by Day and Creatures by Night
Learning from the Helpers Around Us
Throughout the month of October, children at St. Matthew’s Weekday School have been learning about the real-life heroes who serve and care for our communities. Through stories, role-play, and group activities, they explored the roles of doctors, firefighters, mail carriers, and teachers. These experiences help children practice empathy, responsibility, and teamwork in joyful, hands-on ways.
Discovering the Wonders of Night Creatures
Children shifted their focus to the natural world after dark. They discovered animals like owls, bats, and raccoons and learned about what makes these creatures active at night. Cozy, sensory-rich classrooms gave children space to explore their curiosity and feel comfortable learning about things they may not usually see.
Learning Through Shapes, Letters, and Numbers
October also brought opportunities to grow foundational academic skills. October also brought opportunities to grow foundational academic skills. Children were exposed to (as is developmentally appropriate) triangles, the letters D, E, and F, and the numbers 4, 5, and 6\.
A Mural That Brought It All Together
To bring both themes to life, each class is contributing to a large mural showing a world that changes from day to night. One side celebrated community helpers, while the other featured animals of the night sky. This collaborative project shows how much the children have learned and how deeply they connect with the themes.
Each activity this month supports growth in compassion, creativity, and confidence. Through play, storytelling, and shared discovery, our students explored how God’s world works together in light and in darkness, through people and creatures, shapes and sounds.