It’s been a great start to the year with the children in both the Koala and Possum groups settling in well, and the gate drop offs and pick ups going smoothly.
Our focus over these first few weeks has been on getting to know the children and supporting them as they become familiar with the 4yo kindergarten environment and routines-managing their bags and other belongings, toileting, hand washing etc. The children are beginning to get to know each other and are starting to learn the educator’s names.
Following advice from the Department of Education and Training, we have been conducting the kindergarten programme outdoors. There have been lots of small group play experiences which provide children opportunities to connect with their peers and practice and develop communication, turn taking and sharing skills. The children have been having fun playing with water in the trough and creek bed-getting wet and keeping cool!
Other learning experiences have included playdough, painting, puzzles, Lego, pasting and drawing. We have been enjoying our group times on the grass, in the shade, where we have been reading stories, singing, dancing and playing get to know each other games. In response to the children’s interest in dinosaurs, we’ve started learning some dinosaur songs and set up a play space with books, dinosaurs and a volcano. There is also a live interactive virtual incursion (conducted by Melbourne Museum) booked for early March.
Please ensure that you apply sunscreen to your child’s skin before each session (we reapply at 12pm) and that clothing covers their shoulders and upper arms. We’re all looking forward to a fun year ahead with lots of learning and laughter!
Please feel free to call (9874 4044) or email me (eastmont.kin@kindergarten.vic.gov.au) if you have any comments, queries or suggestions or would just like to discuss your child’s progress.
- Sonya
