Learning Through Play at Preschool 

Emergency Evacuation and Lockdown Drills

Regulation 97 in the ‘Education and Care Services National Regulations’ state that the preschool conducts emergency drills every 12 weeks. The preschool children actively took part in an emergency evacuation and lockdown drill this week. Educators gathered the children to explain the procedure for our practice emergency drill detailing:

• Listening for the school alarm
• Observe and follow the requests of the teachers
• Listen and follow teachers to the emergency evacuation route and the indoor lockdown area
• Respond to your name “Here I am” when called out so the teachers know that everyone is safe and accounted for.

Children were responsive to this routine, participating enthusiastically by asking and answering questions and sharing their understanding of what an emergency is. These drills not only teach safety but also help the children develop resilience in challenging situations.

Celebrating Pancake Day

Giggles and flour-dusted hands filled the air as the children gathered for a pancake-making session. The children were immersed in a multi-faceted learning experience. They developed practical culinary skills through hands-on activities such as measuring ingredients and mastering cooking techniques. The collaborative nature of the activity promoted teamwork and social skills, encouraging communication and cooperation. Topping their pancakes with creative flair added an element of individual expression, fostering creativity. Beyond skills development, the children gained a sense of accomplishment, confidence, and an appreciation for the effort involved in preparing meals. 

Over the last couple of weeks interactive group time has focused on preschool expectations.  Alyssa volunteered to be the model for Mrs Nasrallah to trace around her body. This body image became the focus for what body parts are used for and how we can safely use our body. For example feet 👣are used for running, hopping, jumping, riding, NOT kicking our friends. Hands are used for helping others, helping to pack away, draw, write and play, NOT hurting our friends. 

Rest and Relaxation

Each day our preschoolers have a few minutes of rest and relaxation. After an active morning outdoors, a quiet cool calm down is the perfect way to calm our bodies. Our relaxation can take different forms including yoga, deep breathing and mindfulness stretching. The preschoolers were introduced to the 'magic stones' ✨which were placed on our foreheads to help us lay still while we relaxed our bodies while counting breaths and stretching our bodies. The gentle weight of the stone provides a subtle grounding sensation, helping children foster a sense of calm and focus during these moments of relaxation. The tactile experience of having the rock on their head adds a sensory dimension to the meditation, making the rest time a more engaging and enjoyable experience for children, enhancing their overall well-being and mental clarity.