Haven Newsletters

Sun Room Curriculum

It’s the end of Term 3 and it always amazes us with how much the children have grown, learnt and become such independent, happy and strong individuals. Let’s have a look at some highlights of our time together.

 

Emotions..

Our group goal this term was on Emotions and Emotional Wellbeing. We wanted to support the children with problem solving and how to manage when challenges/frustrations arise. To do this effectively we need to provide the children with strategies and tools to manage their emotions and big feelings. This of course takes time and lots of support and understanding. In Sun Room we do this through our Group Times and then consistently throughout the day. This way the strategies we implement, the language we use and the recognition that all feelings are valued gives the children a sense of belonging and confidence in the way they deal with their self regulation. 

Some of the songs and stories that we have learnt this term have been

 

We also had lots of visuals out for the children to talk about and learn the words for the different emotions. They became so good at articulating what they were feeling and also showing us how they felt through their strong use of non verbal cues and facial expressions.

 

Our Inquiry Project..

Our inquiry project this term was “Where in the world am I from?” For us this was a great way to connect with the children and have a deeper understanding of the children’s traditions, family stories and what makes them special and unique. We thank everyone who sent in photos, recipes, family stories and meaningful items from home as this really helped to encapsulate the learning through hands on experience. 

 

Through music, educational videos and books the children engaged in playful, meaningful learning that celebrated diversity and identity. These moments fostered a strong sense of belonging and connection, as well as curiosity and respect for each other's differences.

 

Child’s Voice …

A big part of our everyday learning process is to focus on the child’s voice and their interests. We all know how easy it is to learn new things when it’s fun, engaging and meaningful. 

Over this term the children have brought so much to our curriculum including a huge interest in arts and craft, construction, spontaneous dance sessions, football, cars & trains and sensory play. We have had so much fun and new learning opportunities created by supporting all these amazing interests. 

 

We also know how important it is for a child to feel heard and supported. We had many wonderful conversations this term on what makes your child feel happy & safe and what they enjoy doing. We introduced positive affirmations, gently guiding the children to use phrases like “I am kind,” “I can do hard things,” and “I am a good friend.” These affirmations became part of our daily morning group times helping to build confidence and a strong sense of self.

 

Footy Week..

This is such a fun week where we have lots of opportunities for sporty outdoor play! We loved seeing the children come dressed in their team colours and singing and dancing to the footy anthems. We had some great kick to kick footy games and Jane brought in lots of big, medium and small tennis balls and the children literally had a ball playing with them. We also did footy team coloured paintings, and finished off with our Big Chefs help Little Chefs making delicious icing footy cookies. 

 

We thank you for all your support and look forward to the amazing times we will have together in Term 4. 

 

From your Sun Room Team,

Ann-Maree, Issy, Chethi, Mel, Maggie, Shivi, Caitlyn and Jane