Learning Across the ELC
Immersed in Learning in Preschool Gold
Our wonderful new Preschool Gold children have been immersed in all our learning at Preschool this term. Children's growing interest in living things and the way they have responded to the natural environment has led to a very exciting addition to our learning environment. After many conversations about insects in the garden, birds in the trees, and animals that live near water, we were fortunate to welcome tiny tadpoles into our classroom. This special opportunity was made possible from a Preschooler's uncle, strengthening our sense of community connection and belonging while sparking immediate curiosity and wonder.
Inspired by our shared story of Chino the Frog, the children began making meaningful connections between Chino's journey and the life cycle unfolding before their eyes. They were fascinated to learn that tadpoles hatch from eggs, breathe through gills, and gradually grow legs before becoming frogs. Through observing, questioning, predicting, and reflecting, the children have been engaging in authentic scientific inquiry.
Together, we explored what living things need to survive, and collaborated to create a natural enclosure that would support the tadpoles’ early stage of life. The children thoughtfully suggested water, plants, rocks, and safety, demonstrating their understanding of how a habitat supports growth. As we built the enclosure, we discussed the importance of clean water and how plants help maintain a healthy ecosystem.
The tadpole habitat has quickly become a living classroom. Each day, children gather to observe subtle changes, excitedly sharing their discoveries and documenting what they notice through drawings and discussion. They are confidently using new vocabulary such as life cycle, habitat, gills, amphibian, ecosystem, and metamorphosis, strengthening both their scientific understanding and communication skills.
Beyond the science learning, this experience has nurtured empathy, responsibility, and cooperation. The children remind one another to use gentle hands, take turns, and care for the tadpoles thoughtfully.
Our tiny tadpoles are teaching us powerful lessons about patience, growth, and the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment. We look forward to continuing this journey together as we observe the remarkable transformation ahead. We can’t wait to see what happens next.
Preschool Team
Language of Connection in the Wattle Room
With our inquiry focus on the Language of Connection this term, the Wattle children have shown great curiosity about the limes discovered in our nature garden, demonstrating an immediate and meaningful connection with the natural world around them.
To further explore and extend this curiosity, educators thoughtfully planned experiences that incorporated the limes in creative and sensory ways. The children were invited to use limes as painting tools, dipping and pressing them onto paper to explore prints, patterns, and textures. This encouraged experimentation, creativity, and an understanding that natural materials can be used in expressive and imaginative ways.
The inquiry was further extended through a play dough-making experience, where lime juice and lime zest were added to the mixture. Children engaged their senses as they noticed the fresh citrus scent, the texture of the zest, and the transformation of ingredients as they combined. These experiences supported sensory exploration, early scientific thinking, and creative expression.
Through painting and play dough, children deepened their connection not only to the natural materials but also to one another, collaborating, sharing ideas, and learning together. This inquiry highlights how connection can be seen in children’s relationships with nature, materials, peers, and their own developing identities as curious and capable learners.
The Wattle team
