Hello Everyone,
This week in preschool has been full of dramatic play, conversations, and confident performances as the children continued to explore self-expression, voice, and identity across a range of experiences.
A strong focus throughout the week has been our ongoing work around body autonomy and protective behaviours. During group times, we revisited important stories from the Office of the Children’s Guardian, including Andy Learns the Undies Rule and Fiona Finds Five Heroes. These stories prompted meaningful discussion among us around private body parts, personal boundaries, and the importance of speaking up. We also introduced the idea of each child identifying their own five trusted adults, people they can go to if something ever feels unsafe or uncomfortable. The children took this seriously, thoughtfully tracing their hands or drawing and naming people who make them feel safe and supported. These sessions are part of our ongoing commitment to helping children understand that they are the boss of their own bodies.
Another highlight this week has been puppetry with Abi, who has been working closely with small groups of children to develop some amazingly creative puppets. These sessions have been creative, and often very funny. Puppet play provides children with a safe and expressive avenue to explore social interaction, humour, and voice.
On Wednesday, we had our final session with Mayuko from Cool Planet, where we began exploring the concept of the circular economy. The children were introduced to the idea that instead of following a traditional “take, make, dispose” model, we can find ways to reuse, repair, and recycle materials to reduce waste and protect the environment. Through discussion and hands on activities, we started to unpack what this means in everyday life and how small actions, like composting food scraps or reusing materials, can contribute to a more sustainable future.
In the afternoons, we’ve continued inviting children to take centre stage if they wish, as part of our calm end-of-day routine. Many children have taken up this invitation to sing or perform for the group, with a growing sense of confidence and pride. These moments have been a great way for children to support one another with quiet attention and applause.
On reflection it’s been a week of children claiming space, expressing themselves, and building a stronger understanding of themselves and others, through both playful exploration and important conversations.
Warmly,
Katrina, Lisa, Abi and Michael