Early Learning Centre

On this page: Upcoming Events | From Little Things, Big Things Grow! | ELC Open Day - Sat 23 Aug

Upcoming Events

From little things, big things grow!

Emmaus Early Learning Centre has been buzzing with excitement as we welcomed a very special guest — The Henny Penny Program, which included an incubator, along with an array of eggs, all purposefully stamped and designed to hatch! This hands-on, two-week educational program offered our children a unique and unforgettable opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible lifecycle of a chicken — from egg to hatchling and beyond.

From the moment Henny Penny arrived, the children were filled with wonder. Carefully set up in a quiet, cozy area of the centre, their nesting space became the focal point of rich conversation, close observation, and daily anticipation. Every morning, the children will rush in with wide eyes, checking the incubator for signs of movement, asking questions, and sharing their theories about what might happen next.

As the days passed, small but exciting changes began to occur. The eggs gently rocked, and faint peeping sounds could be heard — a sure sign that something magical was about to happen. The room was filled with awe as the first chick broke through its shell, followed by several more over the next couple of days. The children sat in stillness and amazement, witnessing the chicks emerge wobbly, and full of life. It was a moment that sparked true wonder.

This immersive experience became a launchpad for a variety of learning opportunities across all areas of the curriculum:

🧠 Scientific inquiry – The children explored the stages of the chicken lifecycle, using diagrams, books, and magnifying glasses to study the eggs and chicks. They made daily predictions, charted observations, and asked deep, thoughtful questions like:

• “How does the chick breathe in the egg?”
• “What makes the egg crack?”

• “Why are they yellow when they grow?”

   

🎨 Creative expression – Inspired by what they saw, the children engaged in painting, drawing, and sculpting chicks and eggs using a variety of materials. 

💬 Language and communication – The experience gave rise to rich conversations, new vocabulary, and storytelling. Children used terms like incubator and hatching with confidence and pride.

💛 Social and emotional learning – Perhaps most heartwarming was the way the children showed empathy and care. They spoke gently near the incubator, took turns observing, and often asked if the chicks needed anything to feel safe. Their nurturing instincts were on full display.

🐥 A lasting connection: Chick adoption program 

At the conclusion of the program, we will extend the experience beyond the classroom by offering families the opportunity to adopt the newly hatched chicks. Several families have expressed interest in continuing the journey at home.

 It was incredibly meaningful for the children to know that the chicks would be going to loving homes, where they would be cared for and watched as they continued to grow.

The Henny Penny Program has not only taught our children about the science of life — it has ignited a sense of curiosity, wonder, and compassion that we hope stays with them for years to come.

Amanda Ruddock

Educational Leader & Assistant Director

Early Learning Centre Open Day - Sat 23 Aug 

We are excited to welcome visitors to experience our wonderful Early Learning Centre at our Open Day this Saturday. 

If you know a family interested in visiting our Early Learning Centre, share this event details with them, it's never too late to register. 

• This Saturday, 23rd August , between 10am and 12pm. 
• Live Music from our talented String Ensemble. 
• Free Morning Tea. 
• Chat with Emmaus student leaders from BP Year 6 and SP Years 8,10, and 12.