Waratah Group Term 3, 2023

We had a fun and busy Term 2 that has seen the children progress and grow as confident and involved learners. 

Their structures in the block area, in the box art area, with construction sets etc have become more elaborate and complex and as the year goes on, more and more materials are being added to their creations. The children have been working together in pairs and small groups as they plan and create. These shared learning experiences have facilitated social and emotional development as the children regulate their behaviour, cooperate with one another, listen to each other thus building their awareness of the needs and rights of others.

One of the outcomes of the play in the block, construction and box art areas has been the development of the children’s executive function. Executive function enables people to achieve goals, adapt to new situations, and manage social interactions. As they engage in construction play, building in the block area or creating in the box art area for example, children are developing their cognitive flexibility, planning skills, their reasoning, and problem solving ability. This development and learning is extended and scaffolded by the educators through questioning and conversation.

The children’s wellbeing is embedded in our program and practices at Livingston. We continue to strengthen the children’s overall sense of wellbeing by supporting the children to develop their social competency and emotional wellbeing so that they can thrive in social learning contexts and establish and maintain respectful relationships throughout their lives. We engage in purposeful, intentional and explicit learning about social conventions/expectations, respectful relationships, self-awareness, and key social skills including problem solving. This includes whole group conversations, supporting children in conflicting situations, drawing attention to people’s body language, offering alternate phrases to use, building an awareness of the needs and rights of others (and ourselves). How does my behaviour impact others? Is this fair? and how can we act/be in ways that benefit myself and others?

We go outside everyday, as far as possible, in all of our programs. Please remember to send your child to kindergarten with weather-appropriate clothing and at least 1 set of spare clothes. Outdoor play is important as playing outside gives children the chance to explore the natural environment in play, play imaginative active games, test their physical limits, express themselves and build their self-confidence.  When outside, there is more space and freedom for big movements like running, jumping, kicking and throwing. Physical activities like these are good for children’s fitness and physical development. Being outside and being in natural environments can also help children relax and feel calm.

For more benefits of outdoor play and suggested activities please go to https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/play-learning/outdoor-play/outdoor-play

Also we are still on our journey to find an educator to work with Tina and I in Waratah and to join the Livcare team. We will update you as soon as we have more information.

Thanks,

Louise and Tina.