Reaching the 100th day of school is a big milestone for our preschoolers—and we make it meaningful! Children spend the day immersed in creative activities that explore the number 100, from building collections to making special art projects. One of our favorite parts of the celebration is our “100 Acts of Kindness,” where children and staff work together to spread joy throughout our school community. It’s a day that reflects how far they’ve come and how much good they can do—one small act (or 100!) at a time.

This love-filled tradition is one of the sweetest days of our year. This is genuinely one of our favorite days of the year. Grandparents (or special guests) are invited to join their little ones for a joyful morning of pancakes, crafts, giggles, and memory-making. Together, they share stories, celebrate milestones, and get a heartwarming glimpse into their grandchild’s world. With every hug and homemade card, we celebrate the connections that make childhood richer and love grow even deeper.

Our Leprechaun Hunt is a favorite tradition that brings imagination and excitement to the classroom. In the days leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, children design their very own leprechaun traps using everyday materials, creative thinking, and plenty of teamwork. On the big day, they search the school for surprises, wondering if they can discover some treasures.
It’s a joyful celebration filled with laughter, creativity, and the thrill of discovery—sparking memories your child will talk about long after the gold is gone.

At Bright Beginnings, we believe children are never too young to care for the world around them. Our Earth Day and Arbor Day celebrations are filled with meaningful, hands-on activities that connect children to nature.

Our celebrations feature hands-on activities that inspire a love for nature. Students participate in nature walks, planting trees and flowers, and engaging in fun crafts using recycled materials. We encourage them to explore their surroundings, learn about local wildlife, and understand the vital role they play in protecting our earth. Families are often invited to join in the fun, whether helping plant a tree or participating in a nature walk. Together, we plant seeds—both literal and symbolic—that grow into lifelong values of responsibility and care for the earth.

One of our favorite events is National Outdoor Classroom Day—an exciting annual event where nature becomes our greatest teacher. This annual celebration is a joyful reminder of how deeply children thrive when learning outside. Students spend the day exploring, building, reading, and creating—all under the open sky. Whether it's a nature scavenger hunt, counting rocks, or storytelling under the trees, the entire experience reflects our philosophy: almost anything you can do indoors can be done outside, and often with more joy. It’s a day that perfectly highlights our commitment to outdoor learning and the belief that fresh air fuels fresh ideas.

On International Mud Day, we say yes to splashing, digging, and squishing. Children are invited to jump into a world of sensory exploration, building confidence through messy, hands-on play. Mud pies, muddy footprints, and huge smiles fill our outdoor spaces. It’s a joyful tradition that reminds us how powerful and freeing nature-based play can be.
International Mud Day is more than just getting dirty—it’s about fostering resilience, teamwork, and the freedom to explore in a safe and nurturing environment. Come celebrate the joy of being a kid with us, where getting muddy is always encouraged!

Our Pre-K Graduation and End of Year Picnic is one of the most meaningful days of the year—a time to celebrate just how far our little learners have come. Dressed in caps and beaming with pride, our graduates are honored in a ceremony that reflects the heart and joy of their preschool journey. Families gather on the lawn for a picnic filled with laughter, outdoor play, and heartfelt goodbyes. It’s a day of reflection, celebration, and the sweet beginnings of a new chapter. As children run, hug their teachers, and wave to friends, parents get to witness a milestone that marks not just the end of preschool—but the beginning of everything ahead.

Each summer, Bright Beginnings proudly joins the Crozet and Charlottesville 4th of July parades—a tradition bursting with color, music, and community spirit. Children showcase their handmade decorations and proudly march with wide smiles and waving flags. The event is filled with music, laughter, and plenty of cheers as we come together to celebrate our nation’s heritage and the joy of being part of such a wonderful community. Join us in making memories that sparkle brighter than any firework!

Inspired by Peter H. Reynolds’ The Dot, International Dot Day at Bright Beginnings is a beautiful reminder that every child has something special to offer. On this vibrant day, children explore art and self-expression through their own unique “dot” creations—using paint, markers, and craft supplies. Through stories, music, and collaborative projects, we encourage each child to “make their mark” and embrace the power of creativity. It’s a day that reminds us all that with just a little bit of courage and imagination, even the smallest dots can make a big impact!

At Bright Beginnings, Halloween isn't just a day—it's a memory in the making. Our beloved Costume Parade invites children to proudly show off their favorite characters, from roaring dinosaurs to shimmering princesses. As they parade around the school with music playing and families cheering, the joy is infectious. Smiles stretch wide, cameras click, and imaginations come alive as we embrace the spirit of Halloween in a safe and joyful environment!

Each November, our preschoolers become pint-sized chefs with big imaginations in our cherished “How to Cook a Turkey” tradition. Children create whimsical recipes with unexpected ingredients and step-by-step instructions—think jellybeans, glitter, and 100 minutes in the bathtub! Their step-by-step instructions are dictated in their own words and compiled into heartwarming creations, many of which are submitted to The Daily Progress for all of Charlottesville to enjoy.

This beloved activity not only brings smiles and laughter, but also encourages early literacy and self-expression as our students share their ideas in their own words. It’s a delightful reminder of the joy and humor that little minds can bring to the Thanksgiving table!

One of our most heartfelt traditions, the Family Holiday Cookbook began in the very first year Bright Beginnings opened its doors. Since 1984, families have shared treasured recipes—from cozy casseroles to heirloom desserts—each dish telling a story of home and heart. Teachers lovingly compile the submissions into printed cookbooks, complete with custom artwork and charming student notes. These keepsakes are shared with all families as a meaningful gift—bringing warmth, connection, and holiday spirit into every home.

It’s more than just a book—it’s a symbol of how we come together to create meaningful memories and celebrate the season with love and delicious food!