Early Learning

Possums

In the Possum Group, children have been busy working in teams to complete some of our Kinder jobs! They had fun choosing their teams by putting their photo on a colour, and we talked together about the jobs that help kinder run smoothly each day. Each team takes on a different job each week, and the children are learning to check the chart to see what their team is doing - and what’s coming up next!

One of the most popular jobs is being the teacher! Our Possum teachers get to ring the bell, hold up names for snack and lunch, choose songs to sing, and help give directions to the group.

These jobs are helping children learn about fairness, taking turns, responsibility and teamwork, as well as grow in confidence and build their sense of belonging at Kinder.

This links to Outcome 2 of the Early Years Learning Framework, where children are learning to connect with others and contribute to their world.

It also reflects 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” Children derive satisfaction and self-worth when they serve others and are seen as capable contributors.

Beth Bennett

Head of Early Learning

Echidnas

Our Echidna children have been thoroughly enjoying their fortnightly Bush Kinder sessions - no matter what the weather throws at us! Come rain, hail, or squelchy mud, our keen adventurers head out with clean clothes, wide eyes and curious hearts. Whether they’re splashing in puddles, digging for worms, cooking in the bush kitchen, or collecting sticks, there’s always something new to discover. The bush has become our outdoor classroom - rich in learning, laughter, and the kind of joy that only comes when you’re allowed to get a little (or a lot!) dirty.

There’s something special about being immersed in God’s creation - leaves after rain, the sound and the feel of squishy mud under your boots (and often in your socks!). These sensory experiences help our children slow down, notice the world around them, and grow in awe and gratitude for the beautiful environment we’ve been given. At Bush Kinder, we don’t worry about dirtying up those clean clothes that we started with, or muddy shoes. We celebrate the mess, because we know that messy play is meaningful play.

Research continues to show what educators and families have always known - nature is good for children. As author and outdoor learning advocate David Sobel says, “If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the earth before we ask them to save it.” The benefits of outdoor play go far beyond gross motor skills - children develop resilience, creativity, independence, and a deep sense of wonder. And really, isn’t that what childhood is all about?

Judi Missen

Early Learning Educator