Desert Rose Playgroup News

Dear Playgroup Families, 

Thank you all for a lovely year. It has been an absolute delight to get to share the magic of playgroup with you and your children. We have shared stories, songs, baked buns (and eaten them too!). We've dug in the sandpit, gotten squishy mud in our toes, picked mulberries, climbed the ladder into cubby and chatted to the Guinea pigs. We’ve taken first steps, said first words and shared many feelings big and small, and most importantly, we've played! 

Play is fundamental part of the Steiner early childhood education, fostering healthy childhood development and building strong parent and child bonds. As parents one of the greatest gifts we can give to our children is a safe, supportive, environment that allows for ample time for free uninterrupted child-led play. While the playgroup morning can sometimes feel like it moves quite quickly, it is a small glimpse of how as parents we can take time to really be present with our children. Whether we are role-modelling quietly sitting for story time or watching on as our little ones moves out to explore their worlds and begin to make connections with other children.

‘To a healthy child, playing is not only a pleasurable pastime, but also an absolutely serious activity. Play flows in real earnest out of the child’s entire organism.’  Rudolf Steiner

Many of the grown-ups too have built strong connections with each other, sharing ideas, advice and support in wild and wonderful ride that is parenting. It really does take a village, we are very lucky to have such a kind and caring community at our school.

A big thank you as well to Carly and Kelly who both stepped in to cover playgroups at various times in the year when the other facilitators couldn't make it along.

Next week will be our last week of playgroup for the year and we would like to invite families to join us in a sweet and simple summer festival (please arrive as per usual on your regular playgroup day). 

We will be doing some special advent baking and sharing a delicious feast. Please bring a plate of healthy food to share for morning. NO NUTS PLEASE!

Best wishes to those children and families are moving onto preschool or leaving our town.

We are very much looking forward to another magical year ahead in 2025. 

Blessings,

Linnea, Jemima and Caitlin