If you’ve spent time in our classrooms, you may have noticed the same thing our guides have: children love to bake. Not just occasionally—but often, daily, and sometimes multiple times in a single day. And we welcome it.   At Countryside, baking is more than a practical life activity— it’s a carefully designed opportunity for children to strengthen executive functioning skills: planning ahead, following sequential steps, managing time, adapting when things don’t go... READ MORE

Since the very beginnings of Countryside, our Children’s Tea has been a beloved winter tradition, started by our founders, Annette and Frank, in their home many years ago. As tradition continues, it has brought joy to generations, and this year, I am honored to carry the spirit of this special occasion forward.   This year, each class will have the opportunity to join our 6th graders and me at the North Lodge, where... READ MORE

After a long winter break, it’s very common for children to need a little extra time to readjust to the rhythm of school. Two weeks of slower mornings, cozy days at home, family time, and fewer transitions can make returning to routine feel hard—even for children who genuinely love school.   So when a child resists coming to school—tears at drop-off, a tight grip on your hand, a sudden plea to stay home—it’s... READ MORE

Gratitude is a powerful tool for enhancing mental well-being. Even small, daily moments of appreciation can shift our mindset and improve our outlook on life. For parents balancing multiple roles, focusing on what you can do—whether small achievements or simply your own strength—helps prevent negative thoughts from taking over.   As parents and role models, how we express gratitude impacts how our children view the world. By modeling thankfulness, we teach them to... READ MORE