It has been a busy and positive month as we re-settle into our routines after the holiday period. Tamariki have been revisiting expectations, reconnecting with friends, and re-establishing a strong sense of belonging within the Kindy environment. It has been wonderful to see friendships flourish and confidence grow as everyone finds their rhythm again.
A special highlight has been celebrating our school leavers and acknowledging their time with us. We were incredibly grateful to have whānau join us at mat time to honour this important milestone. Watching each child sew their feather onto our korowai and place their final stamp on their Kindy journey was truly meaningful. It reflected their growth, their contributions, and the unique place they will always hold within our Kindy whānau.
Our group planning focus for Term One is music and art. Through this kaupapa, tamariki are exploring a variety of cultural art forms and musical experiences. We are experimenting with rhythm and beat, movement and sound, and discovering how music can express feelings and tell stories.
In art, tamariki are engaging in printing, painting, collage, sculpting, and creative construction using a wide range of materials. We are also introducing different artists and styles to spark curiosity and creativity. These rich experiences support fine motor development, problem-solving, imagination, confidence, and self-expression, while fostering an appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.
Our community garden and orchard have completed their first growing cycle. Tamariki planted seeds, watered and cared for the plants, and worked hard to help the garden thrive. We harvested an abundance of capsicums, tomatoes, cauliflower, apples, and spinach. It has been rewarding to share this produce with our whānau and wider community through our Pātaka Kai, as well as feed our bunnies. Tamariki even helped peel and stew the apples before baking them into delicious muffins — a wonderful way to enjoy the fruits of their labour.