on Karitsa Ave. in Natomas, CA
Dear Merryhill Parents,
As the cooler air and vibrant colors of October arrive, we’re reminded of how much this season inspires curiosity and creativity in our students. From exploring nature’s changes to incorporating pumpkins, leaves, and autumn themes into activities, this month is full of hands-on learning and discovery. We’re also excited for special activities where you will see the colors orange and black, jack-o-lanterns, pumpkins, and scarecrows pumpkin decorating, where our students can have fun and make new memories. As always, thank you for trusting us with your child’s growth and learning.
Halloween is also an exciting celebration at school. On Friday, October 31st we will have a special Fall Festival and TRUNK-a-TREAT event from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM. We invite all our families to join us for this wonderful event, where the children can wear their favorite costume and trick-or-treat here at the school. Children who are not scheduled to attend on Friday are welcome to come to the event. We will follow up sending a flyer that provides more details of the event as well as posting a sign-up sheet for volunteers to provide their “trunk “for the treat distribution.
We invite both students and parent to dress up and wear their special costumes. While picking out costumes, please remember to keep comfort and safety in mind. For example, swords, guns, open-toed shoes etc. are not allowed.
Yvonne Valenzuela – Principal
As we get ready to kick off a new school year, we want to make sure you’re kept in the know. In addition to this newsletter, our website’s “For Parents” section also includes links to our menu, monthly calendar, and school year calendar. If you’re not currently receiving photos and daily reports for your child, you can easily start by downloading the Links 2 Home app on your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. After downloading, you can register with the same email address that you used to enroll your child in our school.
Thinking About private school ?
Merryhill Midtown’s exceptional school age program is now enrolling for the 2025–2026 school year! As a current Merryhill family, you have the unique opportunity to secure your child’s spot at any time. Let us know if you would like to receive more details about what makes our program so special—from strong academic foundations to a focus on social-emotional growth. It’s never too late to start exploring your options! To learn more or to schedule a private tour, reach out to Michelle Gosselin, Manager of Enrollment, at Michelle.Gosselin@merryhillschool.com or call 916-429-6055.
Celebrating Fall: Crafts and Activities for Your Preschooler
Fall is here! The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and it’s the perfect time for some fall fun with crafts and activities. From pumpkin projects to apple treats, all paired with seasonal book recommendations, these activities are designed to delight your preschooler, spark creativity, and create joyful memories to treasure.
Create Leaf ArtGo on a leaf scavenger hunt, inviting your child to collect their favorites. Then, head inside and gather some construction paper and glue. Ask your child to create leaf art by gluing their leaves onto the paper to create simple collages and designs, or more distinct images like animals or people. Encourage them to take their time, talk about their creations, and even write or tell a story about their picture.
Book Suggestion: Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert – A beautiful picture book showing all sorts of images created by leaves.
Make Fall LanternsYou’ll need some small, soft leaves, a plastic decorative jar or glass mason jar, and child-friendly Mod Podge. Have your child “paint” the back of each leaf and press them onto the jar. Let those dry, then add another layer of Mod Podge over the leaves and jar. Once everything dries, place a battery-operated candle inside, and your child will have a beautiful and warm seasonal light for their bedroom. *For easier application, you can also use fall-colored tissue paper leaves.
Book Suggestion: If You Find a Leaf by Aimée Sicuro – Similar to Leaf Man with its imagery, but the end of the story shows a leaf campfire and a child sleeping in their bedroom with a lamp beside them.
Go apple picking and make apple pie cupsOnce your child has harvested apples, chop them up into small pieces. In a muffin tin, have your child place pre-made biscuit dough. Next, your child can mix the apples with cinnamon and sugar, then place the mixture in each cup. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the apples are tender. Enjoy!
Book Suggestion: Apple Farmer Annie by Monica Wellington – Follow along as Annie tends to her orchard, harvests apples, and bakes delicious apple treats.
Do you know a colleague who has recently had a baby, a friend in need of care who just relocated to the area, or a family member who is seeking a new preschool for their child?When you refer a friend and they enroll, you’re eligible for a free week of tuition. Ask us for details!
