The following is from Open Door Nursery
On December 3rd, Open Door Nursery School hosted its first Stockings for Friends, benefiting the Salvation Army Angel Tree program. This new event had two goals: to help those less fortunate during the holidays and to teach the school’s students about the importance of giving to others.
School volunteers set up stations with items such as books, crayons, coloring books, Play-Doh, arts and crafts, gloves, games, toothbrushes, and more, where students “shopped” to fill stockings. Adults and kids alike embraced the day and stuffed almost 60 stockings for local children in need. “Parents worked alongside their little ones, explaining the importance of giving and doing for others. It was a heart-warming family event,” said Parent Committee Events Chair Anne Di Giulio.
“It’s so great that not only can we teach a bunch of 4-year-olds the importance of giving to those less fortunate, but three high school students from Millburn also volunteered their time,” said Open Door mom Lindsay Burns. The Millburn High School seniors, dressed as elves, played games and read stories—some about Christmas and winter, others, such as I Am a Bear and The Berenstain Bears Think of Those in Need, with messages of kindness.
“The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program at Open Door has been part of the church and school for many years,” says Open Door Director Alethea Randazza. “Our first ever Stockings for Friends event was a great way to learn about sharing and giving back to your community. Families in need have been given a little brighter Christmas with each and every donation.”
About Open Door Nursery School
Located at the Wyoming Presbyterian Church on Wyoming Avenue, Open Door Nursery School has been a fixture in the Millburn, Short Hills, Maplewood, and South Orange communities for more than 40 years. The school’s mission is to provide an atmosphere for young children, ages two-and-a-half to five, that is responsive to the development of the whole child, and the staff is committed to the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional well-being of each student.
