GEKA Caulfield South

An Educator's Reflection: Working Together as a Community During Covid

Vihba Jain, Early Childhood Teacher

We have all been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in some form or the other. Early, in term 3 we went under stage 4 restrictions, it was a challenging time for all of us, as children could not attend the kindergarten. Only the permitted workers and vulnerable children could attend the assigned services. The number of children who attended the GEKA Carnegie Kindergarten were low. Despite all the changes, the children settled in well and created friendships with the other children from different kindergartens. Here, I would like to share two experiences working during this time.

I noticed one child from GEKA Caulfield South Kindergarten was a bit reluctant in his social and communication skills. Attending the kindergarten with low attendance numbers, gave him the opportunity to open up. He used the time to interact and play with other children in a small group. He really enjoyed the bush kindergarten experience at GEKA Carnegie (a section of the outdoor space that has been developed like a "bush"). Ball games on the school oval and showed a sense of humor and laughter. His confidence built up through small group activities and games. It was nice to see how this time has fostered his development. Each child develops at his or her own pace which is right for each individual child.

Another girl from GEKA Caulfield South Kindergarten came and innocently told me that she made a good friend here who is from a different kindergarten. It was heart touching for me and made me think, in spite of a lot of changes, children adapt quickly and enjoy the present moment. They meet, interact, form beautiful relationships with others and feel connected in their environment. Children explore their world, discover things they like and express their feelings through play.

I believe if we are positive, keep our mental health right, be active, and find creative ways of expression we can keep ourselves and children, healthy and safe in this uncertain time.