Learning Journey Spotlight: Green Leaves Newton Kindergarten Program
At Green Leaves, our Kindergarten program is led by Early Childhood Teachers (ECTs) who prepare the environment and set out play provocations or invitations for the children based on their evolving interests. We recently shone a spotlight on the Kindergarten program at Green Leaves Newton and gained some wonderful insights on the success behind their program.
Our Kindergarten children are welcomed with warmth and respect as soon as they walk through the doors with their families. A day of fun and learning through play awaits. The children are encouraged to write their names on a sign-in list when they arrive, interweaving learning opportunities with their daily rituals and rhythms. With their emerging independence, the children place their bags and water bottles in their lockers before sitting down to do a puzzle, read a book with their families, or perhaps peruse yesterday’s artwork and objects of interest while waiting for their friends.
As their daily rhythm flows, the children begin circle time with their Kindergarten teacher. Friends are greeted, songs are sung, stories are shared before the children continue with a variety of activities throughout the day. As strong, capable and competent learners, the Kindergarten children are free to explore their surroundings.
“Play is at the centre of our curriculum. Purposeful play is the richest form of learning experience for young children, particularly when it’s supported by qualified and experienced educators, and shared engagement in activities,” explained Sienna, the centre’s ECT.
At Green Leaves Newton, their rooms feature a variety of learning hubs, which are home to, a bug observatory, art corner, dramatic play area, science exploration centre, literacy and numeracy nooks and more.
With the belief that children are capable learners, and educators are co-learners, researchers, and facilitators, the program provides the most appropriate conditions for children to express their abilities.
“We plan our learning programs by observing children in their interactions and play, whilst actively seeking family perspectives about their child’s growth and development. We value our children’s voices and family perspectives – it’s a true partnership.
“We support children’s learning in a holistic way and help them achieve multiple learning possibilities. For example, projects that investigate a topic of interest in greater detail (such as ‘Bugs and Creepy Crawlies’) incorporate literacy, mathematics, science, sustainability, and sensory experiences related to the topic through a variety of play contexts,” explained Bin Bin, Educational Leader.
She further explained that learning isn’t something that only occurs during ‘planned’ adult-led experiences. “We recognise that children are learning all the time. We value their theories and perceptions of the world and show this by recording their thoughts and wishes about topics that capture their attention.
“For example, when we investigated the season, deeper discussions relating to the change in weather, temperature, UV index, and how these elements impact our lives, were discussed. At the same time, we wondered about the rich colours evident in Autumn and utilised a scientific perspective when seeking to extract colours from plants and create natural paints to use in our artwork,” said Bin Bin.
These learning through play activities certainly lend themselves to a bigger picture. Our Kindergarten program seeks to cultivate curiosity, creativity, collaboration, persistence, and resilience – dispositions that support our children to become lifelong learners and build meaningful connections with the world around them.
The Kindergarten program at Green Leaves Newton is well-loved amongst their families.
“My daughter has become so much more confident in herself and her abilities. She always comes home raving about the fun she’s had, sharing ideas and new things she’s learned!” said Larissa, parent.
“The educational program offers so many learning opportunities and encourages children to develop socially, emotionally, and physically with their activities. Special thanks to our Educators and many others in the background making this place unique in Adelaide,” said Tamer, parent.
Dr Karen Grubb, Green Leaves’ National Learning, Research and Development Partner, says, ”Our Kindergarten program at Green Leaves Newton is founded on a strong image and respect for the work and innate abilities of children. The team has built on the initial work of their Educational Leader and ECT, whose interactions with the children, families and team members reflect a current understanding of the most effective way to support children. Their environment is aesthetically inviting, whilst practical for children to engage with.”
The children have expressed their enjoyment in experiences where they collaborate with peers and teachers, formed friendships and connections with other children and adults across the centre. But most of all, they love learning through play – children’s work that is recognised as the most valuable learning tool in early childhood contexts worldwide.
Relationships are at the heart of the Kindergarten program at Green Leaves Newton and the Educators genuinely understand that children need to feel cared for and loved before they can be truly ready for new learning.
Source: Bin Bin, Educational Leader – Green Leaves Newton, and Dr Karen Grubb, National Learning, Research and Development Partner
Stay up to date on Green Leaves Newton’s learning journey on Facebook
