At Gillispie, learning about the world begins with curiosity about the people in it. Our teachers introduce different cultures at an early age through stories, language, art, and hands-on experiences that make learning meaningful for preschoolers.
Recently, preschoolers explored Otsukimi, the Japanese tradition of autumn moon viewing. This celebration offered an inviting starting point for discovering how people appreciate nature, mark the seasons, and spend time together.
The week began with a new greeting: “Ohayou,” meaning “Good morning” in Japanese. Preschoolers practiced saying it to one another, bringing a little of their learning into their everyday interactions. They also listened to a Japanese folktale about a rabbit on the moon and looked closely for rabbit shapes themselves.
“I can’t find it. Maybe bunnies are taking a nap,” one preschooler suggested.
Throughout the week, preschoolers explored Japanese-inspired play invitations, including a miniature Zen garden, a pretend sushi kitchen, and activities with chopsticks. Moon-themed sensory experiences, watercolor sun and moon catchers, and a no-bake mooncake-making activity added opportunities to explore textures, create, and share discoveries.
These experiences open the door to learning that extends well beyond a single celebration. Introducing cultures early gives preschoolers opportunities to encounter unfamiliar words and traditions with curiosity, ask questions, and practice listening respectfully. Teachers can help them notice both differences and connections: families may celebrate in different ways while sharing an appreciation for food, stories, nature, and time together.
Learning about culture also supports a sense of belonging. When preschoolers see their own family traditions valued at school, it communicates that their experiences matter. When they encounter traditions different from their own, they begin to understand that other families’ experiences deserve that same respect. Early childhood education guidance emphasizes the importance of reflecting preschoolers’ cultures and identities while helping them recognize and value differences.
At Gillispie, our goal is to encourage preschoolers to approach people and experiences with openness, kindness, and a willingness to learn. A new greeting, a shared story, or a question about the moon can be a small but meaningful beginning.