Every Thursday morning, our prep room tamariki set off on a special walk to our local library, wearing green safety vests and full of excitement.
Traveling in a small group with a kaiako and our lovely admin Sue, the tamariki notice the world around them - spotting friendly cats or dogs in windows, checking out the fire trucks at the station, noticing flowers and trees, and chatting about what they see.
These journeys foster curiosity about our wider community and strengthen relationships with familiar places. During the story time and song sessions at the library, children develop a love of books, new language, and rich oral storytelling. Their voices and ideas are welcomed, echoing our Reggio Emilia philosophy of children as capable, active participants in their own learning.
When we are finished, receiving a stamp or two from the librarians is very exciting, and visiting the fishtank on the way out invites wonder and scientific thinking as children observe and ask questions about the fish. Walking together as a group encourages cooperation, patience, and responsibility. These library visits go far beyond just books. They nurture a sense of community, connection, and joyful shared experiences, all while supporting children’s language, social competence, and confident participation in the world around them.