Rainy days often bring a shift in energy. Children who are used to running freely outdoors may feel restless, unsettled or overstimulated indoors. At BestStart St Luke’s, we embrace these moments as opportunities to slow down, connect and create calm, meaningful experiences for tamariki.
One simple yet powerful way we support this is by using a parachute alongside music. The parachute is an inviting, colourful resource that naturally draws children in. As it gently rises and falls, it creates a shared rhythm that encourages cooperation, listening and focus. When paired with soft, soothing music, it becomes a calming sensory experience that helps regulate children’s emotions and energy levels.
We gathered together in a quiet space and introduced the parachute. As gentle music began to play, we slowly lifted the parachute up and down, encouraging the children to move in time with the rhythm. The room quickly filled with a sense of calm as the repetitive motion and soft sounds worked together to soothe busy minds and bodies.
As the experience unfolded, we noticed children beginning to relax. Their movements became slower and more controlled, and their breathing more settled. Some children chose to sit underneath the parachute, watching the colours ripple above them like soft waves, while others enjoyed working together to keep the movement steady and gentle.
This shared experience fostered a strong sense of belonging and connection, helping children feel safe and secure despite the change in routine. Using the parachute in this way supports many areas of learning and development. It encourages social skills such as turn-taking, cooperation and awareness of others. It strengthens listening skills as children respond to musical cues and group rhythm. Most importantly, it nurtures emotional regulation, helping children calm their bodies and minds through predictable, soothing movement.