Our under 2's recently enjoyed a lovely walk to Lakeside Park, where they had the opportunity to explore, play and connect with their local community.
The walk was an exciting adventure, with children observing cars, listening to birds and enjoying the sights and sounds around them. These outings help our tamariki develop confidence as they experience the world beyond the centre in a safe and meaningful way.
At the park, the children explored the playground, practiced climbing, balancing and moving independently. They also enjoyed discovering nature, feeling the grass beneath their feet, collecting leaves and watching insects in their environment. These hands-on experiences support physical development, sensory exploration and growing curiosity about the world around them.
Community walks provide valuable opportunities for children to learn outside the centre environment. They help foster a sense of belonging, encourage social interactions and strengthen children's understanding of the world around them. These adventures also support the principles of Te Whāriki, empowering children to explore their environment with confidence and develop meaningful connections with people, places and things.
At BestStart Lakeside Village, we believe that learning can happen anywhere. Our visit to Lakeside Park was a wonderful reminder of how rich and rewarding community experiences can be for our youngest learners. We look forward to many more adventures that inspire curiosity, exploration and a lifelong connection to the community we call home.