Katoomba Leura Preschool

Newsletter May 2019

Winter is here

Finally, after an extended warm snap, a chill has finally arrived at preschool.  The air is fresh, the leaves have fallen, the days are shorter and it is time for the icy, exhilarating breath of winter to blow any cobwebs away.  There are many ways for our children to enjoy the outdoors during the cooler season. Bushwalks, excursions, park visits and enjoying our beautiful gardens are just a few adventures that will be undertaken during the cooler months.  We have purchased new wet weather gear for the children in a variety of sizes so that everyone can enjoy the outdoors even on the rainiest of days. Children who are given regular opportunities to be outdoors develop a love, respect, and appreciation for nature that they carry with them as they grow. Nature's brilliance comes from it's simplicity and accessibility - clouds in the sky, autumn leaves, the drumming of rain and frost on the ground. Children encouraged to take the time to be still and observe in a nature are developing skills necessary to create mindfulness and balance in our fast-paced, technologically driven world. Nature based play and outside exploration provides opportunities for children to develop new skills and explore the world around them and a cool day should not hinder this exploration.  Please remember to dress your child in layers as the weather cools, and a change of clothes and gumboots in their backpack ensures that even the muddiest or wettest of days can be enjoyed with abandon.

Simultaneous Storytime

National Simultaneous Storytime is held annually and this year we participated at preschool on 22nd May. Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, preschools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country. It is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children's book that explores age-appropriate themes, and addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum.

By participating we aimed to promote the value or reading and literacy, enjoy a wonderful book and engage some of our families to come to preschool and read the book with us.  Each class at preschool enjoyed the book in a different manner.  The Lilli Pilli children went to the park and read Alpacas with Maracas, the book for this year, whilst relaxing in nature.


VISION FOR RECONCILIATION

Katoomba Leura Preschool promotes an organisational and educational culture which values and respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures.

We recognise that children’s connection to their community is essential to their sense of belonging and that Preschool plays a key role in cultivating relationships within the community. We therefore strive to promote an inclusive environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, beliefs and traditions are recognised, valued and shared to ensure that they are carried forward to future generations through the children, families and Educators belonging to our Preschool community and the wider community.

Development of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 

Our Quality Improvement Plan identifies the need to develop a RAP; a plan that documents what our service can contribute to the reconciliation process in Katoomba Leura Preschool’s sphere of influence. The plan will identify areas of action for a whole-of-service response to reconciliation.

Through the development of a RAP Working Group Katoomba Leura Preschool is committed to; gaining a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing and learning; reflecting that knowledge at all levels of our service; improving access to our service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families and developing genuine, respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities for the benefit of all children and families in our preschool community.

If you are interested in joining our RAP Working Group please drop into the office or send an email to Alison – klpsk@iinet.net.au

Artwork by Harry

What's happening at preschool

Click on the link below to see just a little of the goings on in your child's room this month

Bilby Happenings

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Bower Bird Happenings

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Lilli Pilli Happening

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Snow day

In the event of a snow day, when the roads/highway has been closed, please be aware that preschool will also be closed.  In this instance, due to staff being unable to arrive at preschool, we will not be open.  Please also be aware that normal fees are payable on these days on all permanently booked places.  We suggest that you make the most of the outdoor snowball fun!

Work experience

Over the coming few weeks, we will be welcoming two work experience students to preschool.  Both Harry and Zoe are considering working with children in the future and we hope that you will make them feel welcome at preschool. We are pleased to have them here.

Wetbags

Wetbags are for sale in the office at a price of $8 each or $15 for two.  As the wet weather arrives, we would encourage you to purchase two wetbags, so wet clothes can be popped inside indoor child's backpack. A selection of colours and patterns are available, please pop in and pick some up.