Early Childhood News

(Pre-Kindy to Year 2)

The Sandpit! 

Part of the sandpit often comes home with children, with the sand creeping into their pockets, shoes and every other possibly place it can hide! There is a very important reason why sandpits are so important to our playgrounds - at St Helena's we have them in every playground from Pre-K to Upper Primary! 

Playing in sand allows children to use their creativity and imagination. With a simple pile of sand, children can construct castles, villages, or even intricate designs. This open-ended play encourages them to experiment and think outside the box, developing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Sand play also offers children a sensory experience. The tactile nature of sand helps children explore different textures and sensations, which is essential for their sensory development. Some children find the sensation of sand pouring over them calming.. and that's why a lot of it ends up in their hair! 

Playing in the sandpits involve scooping, pouring, and molding sand—all activities that help enhance fine motor skills. Meanwhile, digging, shovelling, and carrying sand can improve gross motor skills, aiding in the development of overall coordination and strength. At the request of our Year Five students, we've even added shovels and buckets into our Upper Primary sandpit recently!

Our Sandpits are a busy place in our playgrounds and bring children together for collaborative play that doesn't involve competition. Sharing tools, building together, and negotiating space teach children valuable social skills such as teamwork, communication, and sharing.