Desert Rose Playgroup 

Storytelling - foundation for lifelong learning

It has been a delightful start to Term 2, with a Monday group beginning and some new families joining the other groups. The cool change of Autumn brought with it a sense of calm and ease and the children have been eager to play in the garden, digging in the sandpit and climbing the beloved mulberry tree. The days are gradually getting shorter, the air is cooler and the warm jumpers, socks and beanies are coming out! 

For the first few weeks of term the children have also been swept away in a simple telling of the classic folktale of The Runaway Pancake. Story-time is such a magical part of playgroup and sets the scene for the rest of the playgroup morning. 

Oral story telling is an important part of Steiner early childhood education and is a key element in children’s healthy development.  Our stories include rhymes, verse, songs, rich expressive language and often repetition. All of these magical tools bring children’s imaginations alive, helping them form inner pictures of the story and inspire their play. Stories can also bring a deep sense of comfort to children, helping them to understand and process the busy world around them. The ability sit and really listen is such an important skill in both educational environments and for being in the wider world. 

Who would have thought through sharing our simple and sweet playgroup stories, we are laying the foundations for lifelong learning! 

Blessings, 

Linnea, Jemima, Caitlin and Karen