Waratah Group

Over the past term the children have been engaged in a rich range of learning experiences that support their development across all VEYLDF Learning and Development Outcomes. 

Connecting with Aboriginal Perspectives 

We were fortunate to welcome Jaeden from Biik Bunjil, who shared his knowledge of the six seasons of Victoria and introduced the children to Dreaming stories. Through these experiences, children developed a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and connections to Country. 

Following Jaeden’s visit, the children explored the story of Bunjil through creative experiences using clay and natural materials. These experiences encouraged children to express their ideas, connect with nature and develop respect for the world’s oldest continuing cultures. We are grateful that these valuable learning opportunities were made possible through grant funding secured by our committee and grant officers. We will continue to include aboriginal perspectives in our programs through experiences including music, art and through discussions. 

Sound Healing and Wellbeing 

The children participated in sound healing sessions, where they explored how different sounds can influence our emotions, feelings and sense of wellbeing. These calming experiences supported children to identify emotions, practise mindfulness and develop strategies for self-regulation. This program was also made possible through grant funding.

The children have also been developing their literacy skills through:

• Using the fish name labels as part of our transition experiences.

• Using word mats , word labels as a cue/prompt.

• Exploring letters and sounds with magnetic letters.

• Creating and illustrating their own books, fostering creativity, storytelling and early writing skills.

Body Safety Education

Children participated in the 'Kids Roar Body Safety' session, which focused on body safety, consent, recognising emotions and understanding personal boundaries. These important conversations help children develop confidence, self-awareness and respectful relationships with others.

Creative Arts and Fine Motor Development

Our sewing project has continued to grow children’s persistence, concentration and fine motor skills. Children have been progressing from sewing with felt to exploring sewing techniques using cardboard, developing confidence and independence as they learn new skills.

Learning Through Play

Role play continues to be a favourite area of our program. Children have engaged in imaginative play experiences including, space, vets, doctors, home corner, camping and cafes. This roleplay has also extended outside where children have been creating shops, building houses and structures with blocks, and cooking with natural materials.

STEM and Problem Solving

Children have been challenged to think critically and solve problems through a range of STEM experiences, including marble runs, puzzles, magna tiles construction, small construction activities and activities on the outdoor STEM wall. These experiences encourage children to test ideas, collaborate with peers and develop resilience when faced with challenges. 

Buddy Time and Social Development 

Buddy Time continues to provide valuable opportunities for children to strengthen friendships and develop their social skills. We have observed children engaging in increasingly reciprocal conversations, working cooperatively and collaboratively, and showing greater confidence in sharing ideas over the term. These interactions and activities support adaptable thinking as children learn to consider different perspectives, negotiate with others and work together to solve problems.

All the best for the Winter holidays, and we'll see you again next term!