It has been a busy month with illnesses and such in the Centre (staff and children) meaning the wellbeing program was put on hold for a couple of weeks. We are so happy that summer is finally on its way and hopefully lots of opportunities for us to get outside and do our wellbeing experiences in the fresh air and sunshine.

This coming program we will be revisiting some skills learned and practiced in previous sessions including spatial awareness, balance, eye tracking and hand-eye coordination for physical education and musical ear, familiar beat, tune, connection to music and rhythm (older groups) for music.

Over the four-week period, we will bring music and bubbles to the Bambini room, creating space and time for children to play and explore their natural abilities as well as practice more difficult maneuvering. Children engage cognitive functions in decision-making and problem-solving (where are the bubbles? Where are they floating to? How can I get to them? Where does my body need to be?) and physical functions (gross motor, fine motor, spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination).

Pikanini 1 & 2 will have the opportunity to choose a coloured balloon to throw, kick, catch and hit around the room. Working as individuals and pairs, coordinating their own moves with that of the balloon in manipulating it from one space to another. Children use cognitive functions to problem solve and navigate obstacles in the room; social skills when engaging with friends; and gross & fine motor skills to hold, catch, throw and kick the balloons. I think the Pikanini children will thoroughly enjoy balloon play in the room, especially with music to move along to. (Balloon playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4tw0ZbEW9hzTQOKg5JTv74?si=kPBkm8B8RaWJsqnDVEhsBw&utm_source=native-share-menu&nd=1).

The Kodomo children will be introduced to a new game called “Traffic Lights” where they dribble balls, balance & develop spatial awareness as well as a quirky new song called “Down By The Bay”(https://youtu.be/Yt1czlnCUCg)” where we practice beat, rhythm, tempo and singing in tune.

Koorlongka’s lessons will include warming up to a new game of beans before practicing jumping, skipping, hopping through hoops and cones with a game called “Turtles, Snakes and Islands.” For musical experiences, Koorlongka will learn two funny new songs from which we will identify tone, beat and rhythm (Down By The Bay & the Taco Song https://youtu.be/npjF032TDDQ ). I think the Koorlongka children will find these humorous songs fun to learn and engage in.

I am looking forward to a fun new month in the rooms with the children, engaging in experiences specific to creating feelings of wellbeing, joy, and community (whilst learning about music and health).

Mrs Bland – Wellbeing