There has been a wonderful sense of curiosity, creativity and discovery in our Kindergarten classrooms as the children explore new learning experiences this term. From caring for living things and discovering the wonders of nature to bringing much-loved stories to life through imaginative play, our youngest learners have been developing important skills in collaboration, communication and care for others. These hands-on experiences are encouraging the children to ask questions, share ideas and make meaningful connections with the world around them.
3 Year Old Kindergarten — Caring for Living Things
Our new learning focus, Caring for Living Things, has already sparked lots of curiosity and wonder. The children have been learning about the needs of animals and plants through hands-on experiences both indoors and outdoors.
One of the highlights has been helping to care for our class pet, Bluey. The children have enjoyed collecting snails from the garden and watching Bluey eat, which has led to many thoughtful questions about how animals live, grow and survive.
Out in the garden, the children have been busy watering plants and discussing why water is important. As they worked together, they noticed insects living amongst the plants and shared their ideas about how plants help provide food and shelter for small creatures. A particularly exciting moment was when Alex discovered a caterpillar hiding in the garden. The children gathered around to observe it closely and talk about how we could care for it.
It has been wonderful to see the children making connections between animals, plants and habitats. Through caring for Bluey, watering the garden and observing the creatures that live there, they are developing empathy, responsibility and a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them.
- Jessica Garcia-Hernandez, K3 Magdalena Lead Teacher
4 Year Old Kindergarten — Wombat Divine PlayWorld
This week, the children stepped into the imaginative world of Wombat Divine, bringing the story to life through this term’s PlayWorld focus. Eager to become part of the adventure, each child chose a character and prepared to explore what might happen beyond the pages of the book.
During our first PlayWorld experience, we travelled to the piazza, where we discovered Wombat nestled in a manger on the stage. Together, we carefully carried him back to our classroom. The children shared what they remembered from the story, retelling events and talking to Wombat about what had happened.
Later in the day, a small group of children worked collaboratively to build an elaborate shelter around Wombat and his manger. They carefully planned their construction, considering how they could keep Wombat safe and protect his special space.
Through our Wombat Divine PlayWorld, the children are developing their storytelling, language and imaginative play skills. They are also strengthening their ability to share ideas, collaborate with others and consider how they can care for and protect those around them.
- Hannah Cassells, K4 Ignatius Lead Teacher
