How a Kindergarten Art Project Inspired Connection at SSIS and Beyond

Picture this: a group of five-year-olds, paintbrushes in hand, creating something far bigger than their small frames suggest. In our Kindergarten classrooms, tiny hands recently embarked on a big mission—spreading comfort and kindness through art.

As part of their We Can Help: Understanding Others unit, these young students explored how their creativity could reach beyond themselves. A visit to the elementary school nurses' office sparked an idea: Could their artwork brighten the space, comfort someone not feeling well, and show appreciation for those who care for them?

Small Hands, Big Hearts

Guided by Kindergarten Art Teacher Tammy Stevens-King, and inspired by our Core Values, the students set out to turn an ordinary grey blanket into a tribute to the vital work of our school nurses. 

Reflecting deeply on how we can make others feel better, whether they are sick or just to recognize the work of those around us, the students painted vibrant fabric squares filled with symbols of love and connection. Each piece carried a unique message.

“My painting has balloons in case it’s someone’s birthday when they’re sick,” one student explained. 

Partnering for Greater Impact

To take the project further, Ms. Stevens-King partnered with Tender Quilts, a local charity that teaches textile skills to underprivileged youth, giving the kindergarteners an even greater insight into how we can work to extend kindness beyond the school community.

“This project wasn’t just about creating art,” said Ms. Stevens-King, Kindergarten and Early Childhood Art Teacher. “It was about showing children how their creativity could impact the lives of others. They were so excited to help.”

The collaboration taught students how small actions, when paired with compassion, can create ripples of positive change.

ES Principal Melanie Sylvester reflected on the project's significance: “This is what learning should look like. Students used their creativity and empathy to make a tangible difference. These experiences stay with them. It’s truly beautiful what they’ve done.”

A Full Circle of Gratitude

The project concluded with an appreciation ceremony, where the Kindergarteners invited members of the school’s support staff—cleaners, maintenance crew, and of course, our nurse office—to join the celebration. The highlight of the event? Presenting the quilt to the nurses who inspired their journey.

Stitched with love and care, the quilt is a testament to the power of tiny hands and big hearts. The students look forward to the warmth and comfort it will bring those visiting the nurse's office. Their story reminds us all that even the smallest gestures can bring warmth and joy to a community.