Tea in the Treetops: Preparing for our Annual Mother’s Tea Party
By Morah Jae Jun
Each year, our Mother's Tea Party is the most anticipated event in our school community. It is a rite of passage—one that children eagerly await, having watched older siblings and friends take part before them. This year’s theme, The Many Rainforests of the World, invites our students on a vibrant journey through the lush, layered ecosystems of some of the most awe-inspiring forests on Earth.
Our preparations began back in December, as we carefully researched rainforests across the globe, from the misty Daintree of Australia to the thriving greenery of Costa Rica. We hand-selected books and learning materials, ensuring that each classroom would be fully immersed in its own rainforest study. As the hallways and classrooms transformed with vines, towering trees, and colorful wildlife, the children’s excitement grew—an invitation to step into the breathtaking world Hashem has gifted us.
More than just an exploration of nature, our rainforest journey has been deeply connected to the idea of responsibility. Through our discussions, the children have begun to understand that Hashem created a world of incredible diversity, where every being—human, animal, plant, and even the inanimate—plays a role. This understanding shapes our learning, reinforcing that if something exists, it has a purpose, and it is up to us to care for Hashem’s world.
Within our class’s study of the Daintree Rainforest, we have uncovered its fascinating layers and the unique creatures that call them home—tree kangaroos leaping through the canopy, cassowaries roaming the forest floor, and the distinctive calls of the kookaburra echoing through the trees. As we move forward, our focus will shift to the breathtaking plant life of the rainforest, all while preparing songs, presentations, and a heartfelt gift for the mothers who will join us for this special celebration.
The Mother's Tea Party is more than just an event—it is a culmination of months of learning, a moment of pride, and an expression of gratitude. Through this journey, our children are not only discovering the beauty of the rainforests but also embracing the deeper message that every part of Hashem’s creation has meaning. As they prepare to share this with their mothers, they do so with a new sense of wonder and responsibility for the world around them.
We can’t wait to welcome our mothers to this special event, where they will see the rainforest come to life through the eyes of their children—a true celebration of learning, growth, and appreciation for Hashem’s incredible world.