At KinderHaus, our events and traditions are an extension of our values: connection, creativity, and culture. These cherished gatherings bring our families, children, and teachers together in moments of joy and reflection that live far beyond the classroom.
Laternenlauf (A Lantern Walk) of Light and Generosity
Every November, as the days grow shorter, KinderHaus leads the broader Brooklyn community in a magical Lantern Walk inspired by the story of St. Martin. In the weeks leading up to the event, children craft lanterns by hand, learn traditional songs, and reflect on stories of kindness and giving, such as that of St. Martin sharing his cloak with a beggar in the snow. On the evening of the celebration, families gather in Prospect Park for a glowing walk through the twilight, often accompanied by a visit from St. Martin himself on horseback. It’s a celebration of generosity, warmth, and the light we share with one another.
Nikolaus Celebration (December)
In December, we welcome a special visit from Nikolaus, a beloved figure in German tradition who brings joy, warmth, and a touch of magic to KinderHaus. His visit includes songs, gentle stories, and wide-eyed wonder as he appears in traditional red robes to greet each child. This cherished tradition not only sparks delight but also nurtures cultural connection, celebrates kindness, and creates lasting memories that the children treasure.
Fasching (Winter)
Fasching is our playful take on Carnival! Children arrive in costume, ready for a day filled with music, dancing, games, and treats. It’s a joyful celebration of self-expression, imagination, and laughter.
KinderHaus Art Exhibition (Spring)
Each spring, the children of KinderHaus joyfully usher in the season with our annual Art Exhibition, an inspiring showcase of their creativity, imagination, and growing understanding of the world of art. Our annual Art Exhibition each spring showcases the creativity and imagination of our young artists, transforming our space into a colorful gallery filled with student work.
KinderHaus Family Meet-Ups: Community in Every Season
At KinderHaus, we believe that community is the heart of early childhood education. Our regular Family Meet-Ups offer a warm, relaxed opportunity for parents, caregivers, and staff to connect beyond the classroom. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon picnic in Prospect Park or an autumn ‘Feierabendbier’ at our Oktoberfest gathering, these events bring us together to share stories, exchange ideas, and celebrate the KinderHaus spirit. It’s through these moments that lasting friendships grow—and our school community thrives.
Kinderhaus Staff Development & Teacher Field Trips: Inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach
New York City’s educational landscape presents numerous opportunities for professional growth, and our KinderHaus educators eagerly pursue them. A recent visit to the World of Learning Reggio Emilia Exhibition offered fresh inspiration and reaffirmed our commitment to child-led exploration, open-ended materials, and the importance of the learning environment as the “third teacher.” These outings are an essential part of our teaching philosophy, keeping our curriculum responsive, reflective, and enriched by global best practices.
At KinderHaus, we believe that lifelong learning is just as important for educators as it is for the children we teach. Staff Development is a time for our entire team to come together, reflect, and grow as professionals.
These events feature enriching workshops and interactive seminars led by leaders in early childhood education. We dive into the latest research, explore innovative teaching methods, and discuss forward-thinking curriculum design, all with the goal of enhancing the learning experiences we provide every day.
By investing in the growth of our educators, we’re not only strengthening our team but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional care and education. Staff Development Day is a testament to our belief that when educators grow, the entire KinderHaus community flourishes.
Kinderhaus Staff Culture
Our commitment to our team goes beyond professional development, and it’s rooted in a deeply connected and joyful staff culture. Each year, we host a Staff and Family Party, where every current and former KinderHaus team member is invited, regardless of the number of years they have been with us. Some have even flown in from around the country to reconnect and celebrate. These gatherings are a testament to the lasting bonds built within our community.
That spirit of connection extends beyond school walls: at a recent staff wedding, the majority of guests were fellow KinderHaus team members, proof of the profound relationships we build here. At KinderHaus, we don’t just work together, we grow together, support one another, and celebrate as a family.