Glen Education Caulfield Primary Kindergarten

The Impact of Time

Wen Shen, Early Childhood Teacher

What is Worthy of Children’s Time?

- and how this question has impacted our teaching and learning this year?

It is well acknowledged that Early Years plays a significant role in one’s life, however how one spends time when they are young can be a topic of debate and there are various of opinions. For  example, many people may think childhood is a period of time for children to prepare to be adults, and in places that cultivate competition, children’s time are spent on acquiring skills and knowledge so they are ‘well prepared’ to be competitive adults who are deemed as successful by society. 

Here at Glen Education Caulfield Primary Kindergarten, we believe otherwise - instead of solely focusing on the future, we also place great value on the children ‘being’ in here and now. 

Recognising the significance of the present, ‘being’ is about children developing an understanding of themselves, interacting and building relationships with others, engaging with varies experiences, and meeting challenges in everyday life. At Glen CPK, we acknowledge the crucial role played by positive caring relationships and interactions with others in children’s everyday learning and development. 

We believe that it is through trusting relationships and affirming experiences that children feel safe and respected; they are able to explore the world around them, to learn about themselves, to develop a sense of agency, and to thrive despite the challenges and difficulties they may encounter.

Placing a focus on promoting strong and secure relationships, this year at Glen CPK we have actively engaged children in play-based learning, supported and facilitated social connections and interactions. Examples include the Book Club we have co-constructed with children in the mornings where children who are curious about books or enjoy the rhythm of a predictable start to of the day can gather together. It encourages social connections and provides a springboard for children to self-regulate and manage their emotions before they feel settled and ready to start the day at kindergarten. 

We also love the delightful interactions during meal times where children and educators share information about themselves. Questions such as “what’s your favourite sandwich?” “what did you have for breakfast?” encourage connections during the familiar routine. 

In all, we believe that childhood is a precious period of time for one to be, to explore and to make meaning of the world. We acknowledge the fundamental role played by trusting relationships in children’s learning and development, and we are committed to providing learning environments that promote positive connections and experiences that are fun and joyful.