Today our learning space was filled with excitement as we made salt dough and used gingerbread man cutters to create special decorations.
Each tamaiti had their own space to roll the dough, press the cutter firmly, and carefully shape their very own gingerbread person.
There was immediate curiosity in the room. Many tamariki eagerly asked, When can we eat our gingerbread man?
This opened up a lovely conversation about the difference between edible baking and decorative creations. While these gingerbread people are not for eating, the anticipation for decorating them once they are baked and cooled is just as exciting!
Throughout the activity, beautiful moments of manaakitanga (caring and kindness) were evident. Our older tamariki naturally stepped into tuakana roles, gently guiding and supporting our younger friends. They helped peel away the extra dough, demonstrated how to carefully lift their shapes, and showed patience when using the small pick to create a hole at the top for threading the string later.
These tuakana-teina relationships continue to strengthen as tamariki learn with and alongside one another. The process required creativity and perseverance. Using the cutters, removing the excess dough without breaking the shape, and carefully poking the hole all supported the development of fine motor skills. Tamariki showed determination, focus, and a real sense of pride in their creations.
Even when pieces cracked or needed reshaping, they persisted. This experience celebrates each child’s contribution. It reflects the learning outcome from Te Whāriki: “Children experience an environment where they are encouraged to learn with and alongside others.” Through shared problem-solving, encouragement, and joyful conversation, tamariki strengthened their sense of belonging within our centre whānau.
Their ongoing questions and curiosity showed deep engagement in the process, and their eagerness to support one another highlights the strong, caring community we continue to nurture. We are now looking forward to the next step — painting and decorating our gingerbread creations to hang proudly on our Christmas trees.
What a wonderful way to combine creativity, culture, and connection!