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 and have handled the change of environment from Darcey Avenue to Livingston Street amazingly.

This term, our focus has been on helping the children feel a sense of well-being and belonging in our kindergarten environment. We do this by focusing on each of our children, learning about them, their families, their interests, etc. We support their confidence further by offering a wide range of activities, books, and mat time routines to help them 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 that interests 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 memorize. Our group time is a fantastic opportunity to engage in discussions with the children and introduce new concepts 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 utilizing 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 moment are “One from the Left" and "Sit on the Mat and Clap," which you may even hear the children singing at home.

This term, we introduced the children to Gail the Snail. Gail is a puppet designed to support the children's emotional, social, and language development. She comes from professional development that the entire Livingston staff undertook. The children have responded extremely positively to their puppet classmate. We have used her to discuss emotions, self-help skills, promote a positive sense of self, and explore and accept differences. As part of the puppet program, we will introduce the children to several other puppets who all have different roles to play. We have Calm Tommy to support the children with self-regulation, Rusty the Robot for tone of voice, and Coco the Koala for support and comfort. We will also perform social role play with child-sized puppets. This is a new program at Livingston, and we are already seeing a positive response from the children. We are excited to expand and continue this program.

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, helping you pack their bag, and preparing simple snacks. Encouraging their independence not only fosters self-confidence but also enhances their overall development.

Please remember that the kinder welcomes families to come and visit, and we love it when families share a skill. For example, we have had family members come and cook with the children, play an instrument, or talk about their work. That being said, you are always welcome to simply 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 will take together.

Emma.

Working Bee