The Possum children have enjoyed spending large blocks of time outdoors in the lovely spring weather. A firm favourite with all the children is of course our fabulous water pump. The children are now able to confidently and independently fetch water to incorporate into their play and we often observe detailed and complex games and conversations in the dirt patch and sandpit as the children explore ‘making cakes’, cooking, exploring how to create water channels, and our very favourite – jumping in muddy puddles! Mud play and sand and water play are wonderful sensory experience and many children are naturally drawn to them, as they provide endless opportunities for discovery and experimentation.
In relation to mud play, scientists have now confirmed something that children have always instinctively known; playing in mud is a joyful experience. Recent research has shown that dirt contains microscopic bacteria called Mycobacterium Vaccae which stimulates the immune system and increases the levels of serotonin in our brains, an endorphin that soothes, calms, and helps us to relax. The rich, engaging sensory play children partake in while playing with mud allows them to express their creativity while enhancing their fine motor skills. Children practice social skills such as cooperation, negotiation, communication, and sharing as they work together. Playing in the mud inspires children to feel a connection to nature and develop an appreciation for the environment. By providing time outdoors and the chance for muddy, messy play, you facilitate a love of the earth. But maybe the greatest benefit of mud play is the memories being created by the children. Mud play and the wonder and joy associated with it are the stuff that fabulous childhood memories are made of! And the Possum group have certainly created some wonderful memories this year!
We also enjoyed our excursion to The Melbourne Museum this week! We had the opportunity to explore the world of dinosaurs, explored the earth, participated in a museum led experience ‘Grandad’s Shed,’ explored the Children’s Gallery, had a picnic amongst the trees and participated in a rainforest walk. It was a very busy morning – and as you can imagine there were a lot of sleepy people on the bus back to kinder! Thank-you to our parent helpers Ike, Emily, Bronwyn, Jade, Karli and Steph who assisted us on the day. The children were so engaged and enthralled by their exploration of the Museum I would highly recommend you add this experience to your Christmas Holidays ‘to do’ list.
We don’t let the grass grow under our feet in the Possum group and we look forward to a number of events and experiences over the remainder of the term. The children are all very excited for our upcoming ‘Halloween Dress Up Day’ on Tuesday, our ‘Count Us In’ music performance on Thursday 2nd November, as well as a Library excursion, PJ/Teddy Bear Picnic day, and preparing for our Chirstmas Concert on Thursday 14th December.
The Teaching Team at Elonera have now completed all of our 4 year old children’s ‘Transition Statements’. These statements will be distributed to our families nominated schools in the week commence 30th October, in order to assist the primary schools with their transition processes. The children are also beginning to participate in their primary schools transition programs, they are enjoying talking about their new experiences with their peers, and we encourage the children to share their thoughts, excitement and at times worries about the next step they are about to take in their learning journey.
Gina
