Celebrating the Winter Solstice with Our Little Explorers



As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, we approach a special time of year known as the winter solstice. This unique event, which occurs around December 21st, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. For our young learners, the winter solstice is an excellent opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature and the changing seasons.

Understanding the Winter Solstice

The winter solstice happens when the North Pole is tilted the farthest away from the sun, resulting in the fewest daylight hours of the year. After the solstice, the days gradually become longer again, bringing with them the promise of more daylight and the anticipation of spring.

Activities to Celebrate the Winter Solstice

Here at Bridgewater Community Childcare, we believe in making learning fun and engaging. Here are some activities we can enjoy with the children to celebrate the winter solstice:

  1. Nature Walks: Bundle up and take the children on a nature walk to observe how the environment changes during winter. Look for signs of wildlife, collect interesting leaves, or simply enjoy the crisp air.

  2. Story Time: Share stories and myths from different cultures about the winter solstice. These tales often explain the significance of this time of year and how it has been celebrated throughout history.

  3. Crafts and Art Projects: Create solstice-themed crafts, such as making paper snowflakes, decorating pinecones, or painting a winter scene. These activities allow children to express their creativity while learning about the season.

  4. Science Experiments: Conduct simple experiments that demonstrate the tilt of the Earth and how it affects the length of days. This can help children understand the science behind the winter solstice in a hands-on way.

  5. Winter Solstice Feast: Prepare a special snack or meal that incorporates seasonal fruits and vegetables. This is a great way to discuss how different foods are available in different seasons and to celebrate the bounty of winter.

The Importance of Seasonal Celebrations

Seasonal celebrations like the winter solstice help children connect with the natural world and understand the rhythms of the year. They provide an opportunity to learn about cultural traditions, foster a sense of wonder, and create memorable experiences.

At BCC, we’re committed to nurturing curiosity and a love of learning in every child. By celebrating the winter solstice, we hope to instill a deeper appreciation for nature and the beauty of the changing seasons.



2024 Bridgewater Town Report

January 25, 2024 

The Bridgewater Area Community Foundation Inc, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors established in 2018 to preserve, rescue and enhance the former Bridgewater Village School, a cultural and historical landmark located in the Ottauquechee valley, into a community center and childcare center. 

In 2023 BACF: 

  • Phase II construction by Jaynes & Berge Inc. (including two classrooms, bathroom remodel and creation of ADA compliant bathroom)

  • Finish installation of new elevator 

  • Finish restoring windows in 1914 and 1948 areas  by Talis Historical Restoration 

  • Plumbing and heating updates by Ottauquechee Plumbing & Heating 

  • Electrical updates by Schaal Electric

  • Finish new sprinkler system by FireTech 

  • Update fire alarm system by Royal Fire Alarm

  • Second floor painting by Vern Doyle II, LLC. 

  • Second floor sanding and refinishing using Vermont Coatings by Vern Doyle II, LLC.  

  • BCC playground additions and planning for 2024 playground remodeling 

  • April 2023 BCC/BVFD Auxiliary Easter egg hunt 

  • September 2023 grand opening of new classrooms 

  • October 2023 BCC Halloween parade 

  • December 2023 BCC Parent-Teacher conferences 

  • December 2023 BCC Holiday party 


The Bridgewater Area Community Foundation, Inc’s cornerstone programing, the Bridgewater Community Childcare overseen by Executive Director, Kristiana Birmingham and Administrative Assistant, Owen Putnam expanded this year tripling in size. Licensed by the State of Vermont, BCC now serves 45 children daily ages 6-weeks through Preschool (5 years old), along with an Afterschool Care program for school aged children. BCC now employs 10 full-time teachers and 4 part-time staff between their three classrooms. BCC’s vision is for every child to have access to early childhood education regardless of their families ability to pay and that would not be possible without the Vermont Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) with 33% of families utilizing the program and additional families on center tuition relief. Under the direction of Mrs. Birmingham, BCC secured $150,000 in grants from Make Way for Kids and Woodstock EDC to expand, staff, and furnish the childcare’s two additional classrooms this year which opened up in late August. Along with two additional bathrooms that opened up in September and December. BCC also received the Vermont Act 76 Readiness award from the State of Vermont Department for Children and Families Child Development Division to aid in the license expansion. 


The Bridgewater community is a vital part of the Bridgewater Area Community Foundation Inc. mission to provide a vibrant center where the people of Bridgewater and the surrounding towns can gather as part of a caring, diverse community of people from all ages and walks of life. The BACF fosters education, artistry, commerce, health and wellness, personal growth and connection. We strive to meet the basic needs of all citizens in a resilient space that will continue to serve and function when it is needed most. We look forward to 2024 and all that it has in store for the Bridgewater Area Community Foundation, Inc. 


Kristiana Birmingham - Bridgewater Community Childcare Executive Director 

Owen Putnam - Bridgewater Community Childcare Admin Assistant 


Brian Bontrager - BACF Board President 

Charlie Shackleton - BACF Board Vice President 

Dalene Washburn - BACF Board Secretary 

Jeremy Bhatia - BACF Board Treasurer 

BACF Board Members - Brian Bontrager, Charlie Shackleton, Dalene Washburn, Jeremy Bhatia, Michael Caduto, & Collen Doyle