Wattle Group

What a busy and exciting term we've had in the Wattle Group!

Through experiences including science, cooking, storytelling, music and movement, and more, the children have been developing a range of important skills, including problem-solving, communication, creativity, and fine motor control, all while building confidence and strong connections with their peers.

A major area of growth this term has been the children's social development. As children move through kindergarten, we see significant changes in how they relate to their peers. At this age, children are beginning to engage in more cooperative play, often playing alongside one or two peers with a shared goal.

As the year progresses, many children begin to engage in the early stages of collaborative play. This involves shared decision-making, negotiation, and more complex role play, where children work together to build ideas. With this new stage of play also comes increased opportunities for conflict. Conflict resolution is a key focus in our program, and we support children to develop skills such as using words to express their feelings, listening to others' perspectives, and finding peaceful solutions together.

Developing fine motor strength and coordination is an important step in preparing children for writing. Throughout our program, we provide a wide range of activities that support the development of these foundational pre-writing skills in fun, play-based ways.

Children have enjoyed exploring materials such as playdough, which helps strengthen the small muscles in their hands. 

Activities using tools such as tongs, tweezers, tap-tap boards, elastic boards, and threading have helped refine hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity. We also sing finger-play songs and use rhymes with hand actions to build control and rhythm—important foundations for writing later on. These experiences not only support physical development but also help children develop concentration, persistence, and confidence in their own abilities.

Music and movement have also been a wonderful part of our program. The children have appeared to thoroughly enjoy exploring different instruments, moving creatively with scarves and ribbons, and participating in group movement experiences using the parachute and stretchy lycra. These activities have encouraged children to express themselves through movement while developing body awareness, coordination, rhythm, listening skills, and turn-taking. They have also provided wonderful opportunities for cooperation, laughter, and building a sense of belonging within the group.

As we move into Term 3, we will also be saying goodbye to Liz, who has been a valued member of the Wattle Group. We thank her for all she has contributed and wish her all the very best. With Liz's departure, we will be welcoming some new faces to the group next term.

We look forward to helping the children build new friendships and supporting everyone as they settle into these exciting changes.

Warmest wishes for the winter holidays!