Classroom Guide

Children and adults remove shoes upon entering and place them on the shoe shelf. Adults may want slippers or socks; children are encouraged to be barefoot for comfort, sensory input, and traction (soft-soled slippers or socks are also welcome).

The room is carpeted and kept warm with our youngest members in mind.
Taking shoes off is also a gentle transition into class. Please allow your child to move slowly and lead this process—observing, waiting, or taking time to settle is a meaningful part of their experience.

● Let your child lead. Some children jump right in; others observe from a lap before engaging. Both are completely appropriate.
● When their hands are on a work, our hands are off. Step in only if your child asks for help (verbally or nonverbally) or for safety. This is their time to practice independence.
● Keep voices low. Adult conversation is welcome, but we aim to protect children’s focus.
● Photos/videos are welcome. Please avoid including other children without permission, and refrain if your child becomes distracted by the camera. If you post on social media, please tag happy holler circle!
● Shared care is part of our community. During class, children are supported by more than just their own grown-up. You may see other trusted adults offer gentle help, hold a boundary, or lend support—and you’re welcome to do the same when appropriate. This kind of alloparenting helps children feel safe, capable, and connected within the group.

Children work with one material at a time. When a child is using something, it is theirs until they return it to the shelf. Once it’s put away, another child may choose it. If needed, you can gently say, “They’re using this right now. You can have a turn when it’s back on the shelf.”

For the first few classes, comfort comes first. As children settle in, we’ll begin helping them return materials when finished. Older children may need reminders or help; younger children learn by watching you model this.

I aim to connect with each child during class—sometimes through a lesson, sometimes through relationship-building, often both. Some days children are eager; other days they’re not interested. That’s normal and always respected. When a child says no, I may show you the lesson instead both to model to the child what that looks like and also to teach you about our materials and how it supports child development.

Breastfeeding is welcome anywhere in the classroom where you feel comfortable (a cover is optional).

At the end of class, children share snack together. This routine often starts as delightfully chaotic and builds over time. Snack is typically banana and crackers; I do my best to accommodate allergies—please message me with any concerns.

Water is available in tiny open cups - basically stainless steel shot glasses. While many families bring water bottles, class is a great time to practice this skill.

Please place any mouthed items in the containers on the window sills for sanitizing. If you or your child are feeling unwell, please stay home to help protect our community. Wishing everyone health, always.

Class is for adults as well as children. Many parents come to class with a question top of mind to ask me or to pose to the group, and those conversations are welcome and encouraged. This community cares not only for the children but the whole family.