The Early Learning Centre children are enjoying their new enormous sandpit that is a big part of our newly developed back playspace. There is so much room for everyone to explore and engage in their play in the sand. Some choose to follow their own pursuits but many are finding the area a wonderful place to bond with friends and create wonderful play together.

Throughout Term 1 the ELC educators intentionally design experiences to capture children’s interest and bring them together. We know that wonderful learning happens when it is shared and supported by others and the connections and relationships forged become foundations for confident, happy and successful learners.

It is not always easy to reach out and make a friend and so with the help of these opportunities (and some ever present gentle adult guidance and support), the ELC children build a little tool kit of strategies to help them confidently join in games and nurture friendships.

Woven through every ELC program is a focus on opportunities for children to work together, to encourage bonds and strengthen connections with each other. This is very evident on Friday mornings when our littlest early learners and their parents join together for Playgroup. Playgroup is all about bringing people together. It is the perfect place for the children to develop social skills with other children while parents connect with other parents over a cup of coffee and a chat. It is also a wonderful way to take a peek at the Walford ELC in action!

If you or someone you know would be interested in joining our Playgroup you are most welcome come along between 10.00am and 11.30am to the Adamson Room on any Friday during term time. The first session is complimentary and then regular sessions are run on a pay per session basis.

I look forward to meeting you very soon!

 

Charmaine Brooks
Director of Early Learning