Wattle Group

Wattle Group Term 1 2024

It's hard to believe that we're already at the end of Term 1. I'm pleased to report that the children in Wattle have settled in really well. We're very excited to share their learning and discoveries and are looking forward to an amazing year.

This term, our focus is on helping the children to feel a sense of well-being and belonging in our kindergarten environment. We do this by focusing on each of our children. We learn about them, their families, their interests, etc., and we support their confidence further by offering a wide range of activities, books, and mat time routines to learn about each other.

The children are now entering the Wattle room confidently. They're learning to follow the rules and routines of a new environment, putting their bags in their lockers, water bottles on the trolley, and then washing their hands with confidence before pursuing an activity of interest to them. Some children continue to require a small amount of support to navigate the program while others are very independent in our kinder routine.

Every day, we start our morning group time with an acknowledgment of country, which the children are beginning to memorise. Our group time is a fantastic opportunity to engage in discussion with the children, introduce things to the group. Our music and movement sessions have been a highlight for the children, and they are thoroughly enjoying this time. Through singing, dancing, and utilising props such as puppets, instruments, stretchy lycra, scarves, and beanbags, the children are experiencing the joy of rhythm and expression. These activities are not only fun but also provide numerous benefits for their development. Music and movement help improve coordination, gross motor skills, language development, and social interaction. Our favourite songs at the minute are "Waddley Archer" and "Sit On The Mat And Clap," which you may even hear the children singing at home.

We believe in empowering our little ones to become independent and self-reliant. We have been actively encouraging the children to engage in various self-help tasks, such as packing their bags, managing their lunchboxes, and putting on their shoes. Through these activities, the children are gaining a sense of ownership and accomplishment. You can support this progress at home by involving your child in age-appropriate tasks, such as tidying up toys, dressing themselves, having them help you pack their bag, and preparing simple snacks. Encouraging their independence not only fosters self-confidence but also enhances their overall development.

Next term, the children will have their first kinder guest with the Wiggle Worm Dance Company coming on the 24th of May to run a session with the Wattle group.  Please remember the kinder welcomes families to come and visit the kinder, and we love it when families share a skill. For example, we have family members come and do cooking with the children, play an instrument, or talk about their work. That being said, you are welcome to just come and spend some time with your child in their kinder environment. We are looking forward to the rest of the year in Wattle and can’t wait to see all the new friendships develop and the learning journey that the children take together.

Emma