More Than Play

Little Learners has given my daughter the confidence to try new experiences and develop social connections with other children. The uniform has given her a sense of community and pride, and the excitement of putting that top on has her eager to start the session!" Emma, Little Learners parent

When you enter the Little Learners room, at first glance you will see a group of children busily playing, getting messy, moving from one learning provocation to another, making noise and having fun! Playgroup is all these things, but what makes our playgroup so unique is the many benefits on offer for both parents and children alike.

CONNECTIONS

Forming a strong and positive sense of self is critical for lifelong success and during the toddler and pre-school years, children develop their ability to see themselves as separate and unique individuals. Their sense of self and independence grows, and this fuels their curiosity and desire for self-directed exploration.

By the end of each term, it is evident that our little learners, alongside their caregivers, have begun to develop new connections with others. At first with their playgroup educator, then with other children and, in some instances, with other parents. It is these new and growing connections that are helping to shape and form each child’s sense of self.

COMMUNITIES

For children, Little Learners offers the opportunity to socialise with children of a similar age and similar level of physical, social, and emotional capabilities. Through a range of play-based activities, children learn how to connect, manage their feelings, share, and develop empathy and kindness.

Friendships for playgroup parents are equally important and many of our families love that each week they can meet new people and create new communities, all while enjoying a coffee!

CITIZENSHIP

Our playgroup program recognises and respects that each child has a right to be in the here and now and children can choose to be involved in numerous experiences on offer. For example, experiences such as creating clay nests, investigations at the light table, science inquiries, art experiences, structured group time with puzzles, dramatic play, music or construction.

Citizenship is critical and brings benefits to educational settings. At our Little Learners playgroup, active participation, democratic decisions and respectful engagement ensure this is achieved.

So, while playgroup appears at first glance like a lot of fun and chaos (and it is!), the benefits can have a long-lasting impact on both children and adults.

Ms Pat Barbieri - Director of Early Learning