Grace Village Early Learning Centre in Huntingwood | Nursery

Grace Village Early Learning Centre

Locality: Huntingwood

Phone: +61 1300 854 388

Address: 44 Huntingwood Drive 2148 Huntingwood, NSW, Australia

Website: https://gracevillage.com.au

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• Nursery

25.01.2022 "THANK YOU" to our amazing tribe We cant wait to celebrate a special day tomorrow #educatorsday https://youtu.be/GrmQW1s7KdE

25.01.2022 | Early Learning Matters Week 2020 (37 August) | A childs participation in an organised early childhood education program assists in the development of their cognitive abilities, and also helps with enhancing social and emotional skills while interacting with their peers. Early childhood education helps children by:... * creating a life-long passion for learning * helping them develop social skills * encouraging the development of fine motor and sensory skills * fostering language development and vocabulary * priming children to be creative * equipping them to cope with problem solving. (Source: NSW Government) Our task is to help children communicate with the world using all their potential, strengths and languages, and to overcome any obstacle presented by our culture. - Reggio Emilia Approach Let us know what you appreciate or love about your childs early learning experience at Grace Village Early Learning Centre #earlylearningmatters

25.01.2022 Mums... the real superheros of the world. From our team at Grace Village we hope you have a beautiful day, you sure deserve it!

25.01.2022 | Book Week 2020 | Follow the map for a week of imaginative DISNEY fun! Which adventure stop is your little one most looking forward to Book Week is upon us and we could not be more excited.... We will be celebrating Book Week from Monday 24th August until Friday 28th August 2020 and this years theme is DISNEY. There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates loot on Treasure Island. Walt Disney

24.01.2022 | Childrens Curiosity // Wonder | Children are born eager to learn and are curious by nature. Everything is a wonder. Childrens enthusiastic curiosity doesnt need to diminish over time. When play spaces allow children to satisfy curiosity through safe, self-initiated, and playful exploration, learning occurs naturally. As children investigate, the experiences effortlessly support emotional, social, and physical development.... Capitalising on childrens curiosity as a learning motivator isnt complicated. Their brains are designed to learn. By providing children with enriching experiences, we give learning potential a helping hand

24.01.2022 | HAPPY FATHERS CAREGIVERS GRANDFATHERS DAY | You are all full of compassion, love, strength and our everday hero.

24.01.2022 | Making Memories // XPLOR | A friendly reminder (in case you aren't using it already) that Xplor has launched a new and exciting feature! Families you can now download and save all those special little memories directly from the Xplor App.... 'Never Miss A Moment'...

24.01.2022 Look beyond and ask R U OK?

24.01.2022 Our new GV graduation uniform has arrived #gvgraduation2020

23.01.2022 Our latest Village blog out NOW https://gracevillage.com.au/outdoor-play-winter/

23.01.2022 | Creativity // Reggio Emilia | 'Creativity becomes more visible when adults try to be more attentive to the cognitive processes of children than to the results they achieve in various fields of doing and understanding' -Reggio Emilia Approach ... Childcare Reimagined

23.01.2022 | From Seed To Kitchen | At Gracce Village we harvest our fresh produce and send it to the Grace Village kitchen to be cut up and used in our fresh and healthy meals. The Grace Village Healthy Master Chef Villager program includes the cultivation of fresh produce in the Grace Village Veggie Garden that will be used in the Grace Village Kitchen.... Our little villagers regularly participate in engaging activities including seed sprouting, weeding, facilitating herb and vegetable gardens, and the experience of eating what we grow from our own garden through cooking experiences. Hands on experiences such as these are designed to incorporate an understanding of where our food comes form and also to promote healthy eating. Never too young to learn about good nutrition and cooking, our Master Chef Villagers will participate in simple and fun discussion about eating well and giving our bodies the fuel we need. At Grace Village we embrace the Reggio Emilia Approach. It is an innovative and inspiring approach to early childhood education which values the child as strong, capable and resilient; rich with wonder and knowledge. The Reggio Emilia Approach emphasises hands-on discovery learning that allows the child to use all their senses and all their languages to learn.

23.01.2022 F A T H E R S D A Y // D R I V E - T H R U B R E A K F A S T

22.01.2022 CALLING ALL DADS TO DO DROP OFF THIS FRIDAY This year at Grace Village we will be celebrating Fathers Day breakfast a little differently due to COVID-19 We cordially invite all the amazing dads to drop off their little villagers this Friday, between 6:30am and 9:30am, and visit our drive thru breakfast offering. They will be treated to a freshly cooked breakfast and barista made coffee. ... We proudly acknowledge that some of our extra special mums cover the role of both mum and dad, so we warmly welcome you to jump onboard our Fathers Day breakfast celebration too. On your childs last day for the week they will excitedly bring home their Fathers Day gift. This is something special they have been working on with their educators. We look forward to celebrating Fathers Day with you all at Grace Village ELC

22.01.2022 We LOVE feedback from our families //

21.01.2022 Happy Easter to the little egg hunters! We hope our families have a beautiful break and create lots of amazing Easter memories....

21.01.2022 | Dream big, little one | . . Each child has the natural ability to question, interpret and understand the world around them. .... . The educational focus at Grace Village is on the individual strengths and needs of the child and children are always encouraged to explore, have opinions and provide suggestions. . . Every little human has greatness in them . . #play #playbasedlearning #reggioemiliaapproach #reggioemilia #childcarereimagined #momlife #babies #newarrivals #busymom #momblogger #newborn #children #school #education #earlychildhood #elc #childcareprovider #thirdspace #blacktown #childcare #earlylearning #huntingwood #parents #family #pregnancy See more

21.01.2022 | Virtual Connect // Toilet Training Presented by Sharon Vella from Blissful Babies | Our THIRD Space offering brings Sharon Vella from Blissful Babies presenting a practical guide to painless toilet training, with some hands-on virtual advice. Parents will learn how to set the stage, recognise readiness, choose a potty seat, dress their child for success, deal with an uncooperative child, handle accidents, understand the issues, use rewards or not, cope when travelling an...d deal with bed wetting. Details as follows: This is a virtual event from our Tribe Connect offering. Online link https://meet.google.com/vcd-xzka-qae?authuser=0 Day / Time 30th September at 7pm. Toilet Training Presented by Sharon Vella of Blissful Babies

20.01.2022 | Outdoor Villager Week 2020 | As part of Outdoor Villager Week today (and tomorrow) was 'Bring Your Own Bike To School Day'. As part of National Road Safety Week our little villagers are invited to bring their bikes, trikes, scooters, 4Wheelers, or any other ride they may have, to school on Wednesday and Thursday. ... Our educators will be setting up a riding track for the children to explore. This activity will encourage the children to learn about both bike and road safety. Please remember to ensure all bike's and helmets are labelled The outdoor villager strengthens children’s understanding of the natural world and their role in caring for, and about, each element. It also helps children build physical skills and stamina, enhances their learning and social skills, and teaches them wise ways to manage risk. Our educators ensure that the outdoor curriculum explores subject areas such as sustainability, other-than human species, land care, conservation, natural history and botanical know how. Childcare Reimagined

20.01.2022 | Early Learning Matters Week 2020 (37 August) | Today marks the start of Early Learning Matters Week for 2020. Early learning means the vital stages of childrens development from birth to age five, including brain development, cognitive skills, motor skills, social and emotional wellbeingall of the skills needed for lifelong learning. Early learning occurs in formal settings (early childhood education and care) with educators but also at home and in relationships with ...family members and caregivers. This campaign recognises that the main vehicle for childrens learning is play. This week we will share a photo everyday to increase public awareness and understanding of the benefits of investing in early learning. Learning and teaching should not stand on opposite banks and just watch the river flow by; instead, they should embark together on a journey down the water. Through an active, reciprocal exchange, teaching can strengthen learning and how to learn. -Reggio Emilia Approach Let us know what you appreciate or love about your childs early learning experience at Grace Village Early Learning Centre #earlylearningmatters

20.01.2022 | Outdoor Villager // Nature Play // Mud Kitchen | Nature play is a term used to describe the creation of simple play opportunities in the natural environment. Nature play encourages everyone to see the natural environment as a place to enjoy, play, imagine, relax and explore. Our outdoor play space has lots of natural elements including our Grace Village Mud Kitchen. ... The fantastic benefits of mud kitchens for early child development through sensory play, role play, imaginative play, maths and hands on exploration are limitless! Mud play is the ultimate sensory experiences of childhood. And when combined with the outdoors and creative freedom, it’s the perfect recipe for learning through play because oozy, squishy mud will create the kind of sensory stimulation that is essential for a child’s brain development. Mud is unique in texture and the patting, slapping, plopping and throwing of mud is pure joy for a child. You’ll also find mud kitchen play to be an engrossing and calming experience for children. THE BENEFITS OF MUD KITCHENS: Good mental health, freedom to be children, exploring outdoors and PLAYING freely! Good physical health- recent studies have shown we absolutely NEED to have dirt in our systems in order to develop a healthy immune system. Allowing curiosity, exploration and experimentation in an open-ended way. Mathematical opportunities for measuring, filling and emptying and exploring capacity. Endless imaginative and role play possibilities. Language development through descriptive words, scientific questioning and exploration, and storytelling through imaginative role play. Rich and genuine messy, sensory experiences through combination of natural materials. Scientific investigation as materials are combined, mixed, transferred and changed. Fine motor skills development through use of real tools in play situations. Outdoor Villager: The outdoor villager strengthens children’s understanding of the natural world and their role in caring for, and about, each element. It also helps children build physical skills and stamina, enhances their learning and social skills, and teaches them wise ways to manage risk. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 1 - EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM AND PRACTICE Quality Area 2 - CHILDREN'S HEALTH AND SAFETY Quality Area 3 - PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT Childcare Reimagined

20.01.2022 | An Invitation To Play // Mirror Play | We arrange environments that invite young children to come to the area and explore, investigate, question, examine, participate, touch, feel and manipulate through as much independent and open-ended play as the materials allow. Mirrored surfaces, on mirror tables or using mirror trays, create a very different place to work and play where children become self-aware as they observe both themselves and the resources they are using. ... Multiple mirrors provide opportunities to develop thinking and problem solving skills while working out which way to move things to create a desired effect. Moving objects around in front of a mirror helps children to develop their spatial awareness and their early understanding of position. Early Learning Matters Week runs from 3 to 7 August. Its purpsoe is to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of early learning. High-quality early education and care supports children to be confident, enthusiastic learners, building a foundation for wellbeing and achievement throughout their lives. Playing with light and reflection provides the perfect opportunity for magical experiences to be enjoyed by children. Light and darkness hold fascination and intrigue, as well as an element of risk and challenge and of being scared. Exploring light and shadow enables children to appreciate the awe and wonder of the world around them and provides an environment where children can develop their natural curiosity -Reggio Emilia Approach . Let us know what you appreciate or love about your childs early learning experience at @Grace Village Early Learning Centre #EarlyLearningMatters

19.01.2022 | Book Week 2020 // Disney Theme | Book Week is almost upon us and we could not be more excited. We will be celebrating Book Week from Monday 24th August to Friday 28th August 2020 and this years theme is DISNEY. ... Stay tuned for more details. There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates loot on Treasure Island. Walt Disney

19.01.2022 Today we say thank you. Today we recognise the special work our awesome Educators do on a daily basis. It takes a village to raise a child, you are only as good as your team and we cant do it alone. The biggest heart felt thank you to our amazing tribe

19.01.2022 | Matching // Early Learning | Matching is an important early childhood math skill that helps in classification of objects. Matching is identification of same or similar objects based on their common properties. And this skill keeps recurring throughout schooling life in various forms. Teaching young children how to match, classify, and measure is an important part of developing early math skills because these skills help children identify and describe relationships betwee...n items. Matching and Memory Games: improve concentration. train visual memory. increase short term memory. increase attention to detail. improve the ability to find similarities and differences in objects. help to classify objects that are grouped by similar traits. improve vocabulary. The Reggio Emilia Approach affirms that each child has the natural ability to question, interpret and understand the world around them. The Reggio Emilia Approach is an innovative and inspiring approach to early childhood education which values the child as strong, capable and resilient; rich with wonder and knowledge

18.01.2022 | Outdoor Villager // Risky Play | Risky play can be defined as a thrilling and exciting activity that involves a risk of physical injury, and play that provides opportunities for challenge, testing limits, exploring boundaries and learning about injury risk. Movements that are often associated with risky play, such as, swinging, climbing, rolling, hanging, sliding, are not only fun for children but also essential for their motor skills, balance, coordination, and body aw...areness. At Grace Village, risky play is implemented in a secure and supervised environment as part of early learning. Our passionate and dedicated educators ensure young children feel confident to engage in this important type of play. Outdoor Villager: The outdoor villager strengthens children’s understanding of the natural world and their role in caring for, and about, each element. It also helps children build physical skills and stamina, enhances their learning and social skills, and teaches them wise ways to manage risk. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 2 - Children's Health and Safety Quality Area 3 - Physical Environment Childcare Reimagined

18.01.2022 | CREATORS // Transition To School Program | How lovely and grown up do our little villagers look in their 'big school' uniforms Implementing a transition to school program enables the children to develop their developmental skills in key learning areas such as literacy, numeracy, and self help skills. ... At Grace Village we consider the whole school day to be part of our Transition to School Program. Children are encouraged to put their bags on a hook, to sign in and out on arrival, choose experiences that are interest-based, participate in the daily program, care for their own belonging and socialise with peers and staff. The goal of our School Readiness program is for children to: Develop the foundations for lifelong learning. Start school with confidence and a strong sense of self. Become familiar with the school environment and expectations. Learn more about our Transition To School (School Readiness) program here: https://gracevillage.com.au/school-readiness/ Childcare Reimagined

18.01.2022 | Literacy // Early Childhood | A Reggio Emilia inspired literacy area is a language rich environment that provides children with the opportunity to practice their book handling skills (i.e., holding the book correctly, looking at the words from left to right). The Reggio Emilia approach focuses on meaning, and opportunity, therefore literacy taught through these methods is required to hold purpose and prospects for development. The environment that surrounds the child must... be rich in literacy and be rich in opportunities for them to foster their own development. Children need to be exposed to vocabulary and reading should always be looked at as a fun activity. When the environment is fun, children are so involved with the activity that they do not even know they are learning! Reggio Emilia: The Image of the Child: Children are competent and capable learners. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 1 - EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM AND PRACTICE Quality Area 3 - PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT Quality Area 5 - RELATIONSHIPS WITH CHILDREN Childcare Reimagined

17.01.2022 | THIRD SPACE // Speech Therapy Services, Skill Development and Behaviour Support (SDBS) | Were here to support you as parents, as well as your children. We relish in the thought that when we take care of the little things, it makes your life a little bit easier. From next week we will be offering additional in-house intervention including Speech Therapy Services, Skill Development, Behaviour Support (SDBS) and psychology services through our friends Step by Step Interven...tions. Step by Step Interventions will use evidence-based interventions to make positive impacts for our Grace Village families, so that they have the best outcomes possible. All of their staff are trained in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), which is the gold standard in early intervention and disability related treatment. Speech Therapy Services Harrison Chen Speech pathology studies, diagnoses and treats communication disorders, including difficulties with speaking, listening, understanding language, reading, writing, social skills, stuttering, and using voice. We support those with difficulty communicating because of developmental delays, stroke, brain injuries, learning disability, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, dementia and hearing loss, as well as other problems that can affect speech and language. Skill Development and Behaviour Support (SDBS) Cindy Mihardja or Peta Williams Our SDBS service focuses on the skill development of children across all areas of development (including social, cognitive, motor and communication) and runs as a comprehensive program that focuses on the needs of the client. At Grace Village, this can also include working on key school readiness skills such as following group instructions, independence in self-help skills (such as toileting, hand washing, eating), building appropriate social skills with peers, and pre-academic skills. The skill development of these areas also allows our consultants to reduce behaviours of concern and to provide strategies on how to manage challenging behaviours. This service is led by our Senior Consultants in conjunction with our team of Behaviour Therapists. The therapists from Step by Step Interventions will work closely, and in conjunction, with our Grace Village educators so that strategies can be implemented into our rooms and throughout our daily routine. If you would like to utilise any of these in-house services / THIRD SPACE offerings, please speak to our teaching director Miss Amanda for bookings.

16.01.2022 | Save The Dates // April & May | ***More information on each of these events will be posted on Xplor***

16.01.2022 Ever wondered who was behind those magical small apples at pickup Our assistant cook Miss Joyce

15.01.2022 Our latest blog is now available The benefits of going barefoot A special mention to our friend @Maggie Dent https://gracevillage.com.au/benefits-of-going-barefoot/

15.01.2022 | Magic With Light and Shadows | A Reggio-inspired classroom is one that has adopted the core values and beliefs of the Reggio Emilia approach. These values include the image of the child, emergent curriculum, project work, the role of the teacher, the role of the environment, parental involvement, and documentation. Light and shadow play promotes Reggio inspired values. Lights and shadows are magical to children. The Reggio-inspired approach strongly values using light as... a material to help support active exploration and discovery. Playing with light and reflection provides the perfect opportunity for magical experiences to be enjoyed by children. Light and darkness hold fascination and intrigue, as well as an element of risk and challenge and of being scared. Exploring light and shadow enables children to appreciate the awe and wonder of the world around them and provides an environment where children can develop their natural curiosity

15.01.2022 | Never Miss A Moment // Xplor | Xplor has a new and exciting feature! Families you can now download and save all those special little memories directly from the Xplor App

14.01.2022 | Little Safe Villager Week // 8 Little Villagers | This villager teaches self defence skills, where your little one will learn to identify danger, how they can use their voice confidently, and run to safety. Embedded within the fun and exciting games, Safe Villager gives little ones simple and practical tools to protect themselves from dangerous or uncomfortable situations for freedom and confidence to enjoy life. ... Our topics can include: road safety, water safety, sun safety, fire and electrical safety, playground safety, home safety, animal safety (living safely with dogs - responsible pet ownership education program), burns, poisons, first aid, bullying, stranger danger, Its your body, crowds and people who can help. Whats happening for Safe Little Villager week: Monday 10th: Teddy Bears Picnic where your children bring in their favourite bear from home and spend the day with them at Grace Village. Tuesday 11th: Blacktown Police Visit - first session at 10am for 2-3 year olds, second session at 10:20am for 3-5 year olds. Wednesday 12th August: Childrens First Aid course for 3-5 year olds from 10:30am to 11:30am. Thursday 13th: Healthy Harold Visit from 9:30am to 10:00am for Creators and Innovators. Friday 14th: Dress up as your favourite Emergency Services Officer. Learn more about the Grace Village Early Learning Centre 8 Little Villagers here: https://gracevillage.com.au/8-little-villagers/

13.01.2022 | Outdoor Villager Week | What a week it was Throughout the week the children participated in a variety of activities:... Rangers On The Run ‘Big Bug House’ Enclosure - The children were introduced to the amazing world of live insects! Stick and leaf insects, caterpillars, praying mantis, butterflies, and crickets were introduced to the children through hands on learning opportunities. The ‘Big Bug House’ enclosure remained at the center for the entire week to ensure each child had the opportunity get up close and personal. Bring Your Own Bike To School Day! - In conjunction with National Road Safety Week the children were invited to bring their bikes, trikes, scooters, 4wheelers or any other ride on they may have to school. Our educators set up a riding track for the children to explore during the day. This encouraged the children to learn about bike safety and road safety. Outdoor Day - This day was filled with fun outdoor experiences for the children to participate in such as mud play, water play, cooking in the mud kitchens plus much more. Lucky families packed spare clothes as it got messy! Water Play Day - Through out the day the children engaged in a variety of water play experiences including a slip and slide and water trough activities. The outdoor villager strengthens children’s understanding of the natural world around them and their role in caring for environment. It also helps children build physical skills, stamina, enhances their learning and social skills as well as teaching them wise ways to manage risk.

13.01.2022 | A C T I V E V I L L A G E R W E E K | Meet our little active (and slightly cheeky) Active Villager. The Active Villager teaches discipline, respect and creativity with the correct physical conditioning.... The programs has been designed to assist children in developing important physical skills and environmental, nutritional and safety awareness. Physical activity is vital for a child’s development and lays the foundation for a healthy and active life. During this week, we will be participating in a variety of activities: // M O N D A Y - Mini olympics // T U E S D A Y - Multicultural active day and a workshop with Josh from @thesydneyzoo // W E D N E S D A Y - Yoga Classes // T H U R S D A Y - Martial Arts // F R I D A Y - Zumba Classes We can’t to see our little villagers super active this week Childcare reimagined

11.01.2022 | CREATORS LUNCH BOX PROGRAM // Transition To School | Implementing a transition to school program enables the children to develop their developmental skills in key learning areas such as literacy, numeracy, and self help skills. An important self help skill that supports preschoolers as they prepare for 'big' school is being able to independently manage a lunch box. ... The program involved the children making THEMSELVES sandwiches to pack into their lunchboxes. The program was designed to help the children develop their confidence when using their lunch box including peeling fruit and opening packets. The children were encouraged to understand the concept of only eating certain foods at lunch so that they still have food for their afternoon tea. The children accessed their lunch boxes in the indoor play area to create a playground experience similar to that at 'big' school. They developed an understanding that after eating they can go play. At Grace Village we consider the whole school day to be part of our Transition to School Program. Children are encouraged to put their bags on a hook, to sign in and out on arrival, choose experiences that are interest-based, participate in the daily program, care for their own belonging and socialise with peers and staff. The goal of our School Readiness program is for children to: Develop the foundations for lifelong learning. Start school with confidence and a strong sense of self. Become familiar with the school environment and expectations. Childcare Reimagined

11.01.2022 We are ready We take our commitment to our families, and our little villagers very serious. Over the past couple of months you may have seen us take an above and beyond approach to the COVID-19 pandemic. An approach which hasnt been easy for both our team and our families.... The drive-thru pickup and drop off strategy has been by far the most challenging. Our educators have sincerely missed having the soul of our village walk through the doors and showcase all the educational activities in the room everyday Our above and beyond COVID-19 safe plan has included: Our drive-thru parent pick-up and drop off , with 30 second handovers. Extending our outdoor villager program with an average of 4-8hrs a day spent participating in outdoor play. Daily detailed cleans from both our professional cleaners and our staff. Prohibiting suppliers from entry inside. Not allowing visitors unless urgent maintenance is required, or for inclusion reasons. With these exceptions a COVID-19 declaration form must be completed prior to entering. Daily temperature checks upon entry for both our children and staff. All staff completing an infectious control training COVID19 course. Today, we added another approach to our above and beyond COVID-19 safety plan with the introduction of a cleaning mist that is TGA approved to kill COVID-19. We will be delivering this to our service on a monthly basis. Recently the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved Nanocyn disinfectant & sanitiser to be effective in the elimination of Coronavirus within 30 seconds of contact time. The 30 seconds kill time against Coronavirus is a key factor in ensuring efficient and effective infectious cleaning. We cannot predict what this pandemic will do, but we can prepare our village for how we will handle it in order to keep our children, families, and staff, safe at all times. Thank you village families for your patience, love, and support during these times

11.01.2022 | Innovators Virtual Sydney Zoo Excursion // Tribe Connect | This virtual excursion is delivered as part of our Tribe Connect program, and through our exclusive partnership with Sydney Zoo. The Innovators will get up close and personal with some of the zoos animals via an online virtual excursion experience. ... Our Innovators will enjoy a book about the Biggest, Fastest and Strongest animals in the Zoo, read to them by the awesome Sydney Zoo team, before learning about the amazing adaptations of some of the exotic animals at the Zoo. Close ups through the camera will allow the children observe the animals in their natural habitats. After the Zoom session, the children will participate in a craft activity where they will transform into their chosen animal by colouring in a face mask. We are so excited to offer this innovative virtual experience. During the current climate (COVID-19) we never want our little villagers to miss a moment and so weve adapted to these unprecedented times

10.01.2022 | Open Ended Construction | We often tell families about the importance and outcomes of play based learning. Open ended construction is a prime example of this. Enabling and encouraging a child to plan, design and construct with 3D materials has many benefits. ... Construction encourages children to engage in symbolisation and representation, make comparisons, classify, learn about directionality and sequencing and experience divergent thinking and logical reasoning. It provides opportunities for learning about mathematical concepts of size, shape, space and weight, along with developing imagination and creativity. Construction encourages language, social engagement, cooperation and problem-solving by encouraging children to work together towards a common goal. Reggio Emilia: The Image of the Child: Children are competent and capable learners. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 1 - EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM AND PRACTICE Childcare Reimagined

09.01.2022 | The Joy Of Mud Play | Mud play is one of the ultimate sensory experiences of childhood. And when combined with the outdoors and creative freedom, it’s the perfect recipe for learning through play because oozy, squishy mud will create the kind of sensory stimulation that is essential for a child’s brain development. Mud is unique in texture and the patting, slapping, plopping and throwing of mud is pure joy for a child. Outdoor Villager:... The outdoor villager strengthens children’s understanding of the natural world and their role in caring for, and about, each element. It also helps children build physical skills and stamina, enhances their learning and social skills, and teaches them wise ways to manage risk. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 3 - Physical Environment Childcare Reimagined

09.01.2022 | Mud Play // Cognitive Skill Development | 'I know it is wet And the sun is not sunny. But we can have ... Lots of good fun that is funny!' -The Cat In The Hat (Dr Seuss) Childcare Reimagined . . A child’s neurological system is naturally designed to seek out the sensory input it needs in order to develop into a strong and capable individual. If a child is spinning in circles just for fun, it is because he or she needs that sensory input. Movement and physical play facilitate the development of new connections (synapses) among brain cells and the overall organisation of the brain. As these connections develop, child’s fine and gross motor skills, socialisation, personal awareness, language, creativity, problem solving and learning ability are improved. This is why they need to climb the trees, jump on the bed, run through the grass, splash in mud puddles. These are all natural and necessary experiences that will encourage their cognitive skill development.

08.01.2022 It takes a BIG heart to shape little minds // Happy Educators Day

07.01.2022 | The Reggio Emilia Approach | Reggio Emilia emphasises hands-on discovery learning that allows the child to use all their senses and all their languages to learn. At Grace Village, we believe children have the right to express their ideas, thoughts, emotions and learning in a variety of ways.... Educators offer a variety of rich opportunities for children to express themselves through art, dramatic play, music, dance along with the typical ways of communicating such as re- telling, creating stories, discussions and negotiations. Through our nurturing educational philosophies, its our vision at Grace Village, to provide the highest level of care and a holistic experience for each child.

06.01.2022 | LEGO Play | Benefits of LEGO play include: Lego play promotes fine motor skill development.... Lego play encourages team work. Lego play encourages creativity. Lego play develops problem solving and mathematical thinking. Lego play improves communication skills. Lego play develops persistence. Lego play develops lateral thinking and planning skills. Open-ended play supports imagination and creativity, which is the foundation of the Reggio Emilia philosophy. When children are given a chance to play with little-to-no adult interaction or direction, they are able to express themselves freely and creatively because there are no limitations or expectations. Playing with open-ended materials allow for imaginative play because of the multiple uses and numerous possibilities Childcare Reimagined

06.01.2022 | Space learning // C R E A T O R S R O O M | With natural motivation and interest already there, space is an ideal facilitator for the education of our little villagers. Around one third of all children experience what is known as an intense interest and this is often in either dinosaurs or space (or both). Some studies have concluded that children with these intense interests develop longer attention spans, better information processing skills and become more persistent.... At Grace Village it is vital that we cultivate these interests and encourage them within our daily program. Reggio Emilia: The Image of the Child: Children are competent and capable learners; Children are driven by their interests to understand and know more. Each child has the natural ability to question, interpret and understand the world around them. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 1 - Educational Program (1.1) and Practice (1.2); 1.1.2 Child centred ~ Each child’s current knowledge, strengths, ideas, culture, abilities and interests are the foundation of the program. 1.2.3 Child direct learning ~ Each child's agency is promoted, enabling them to make choices and decisions that influence events and their world. Childcare reimagined

06.01.2022 | This Weeks Menu // Grace Village | Childcare Menu: Fresh, Wholesome FOOD & FUN at Grace Village This week our little villagers have enjoyed:... Porky pine beef and vegetable meatballs with wholemeal pasta. Pasta carbonara with spinach and mushrooms with homemade garlic bread. We are committed to the well-being of our little villagers and that starts with their nutrition. We believe healthy food, drinks and eating habits greatly impact the learning and growth of our little villagers and their futures. Every seasonal menu meets and often succeeds the latest nutritional requirement for our little villagers

06.01.2022 | Mud Play | The Reggio Emilia Approach regards the environment as the third teacher alongside educators and families. Exposure to nature also helps children to regulate their emotions better and gives them opportunities to take risks, discover and explore new things, solve problems, unleash their creative sides and develop a sense of wonder. These natural play environments give children a break from the modern structured world which is ruled by screens, schedules, time... limits and tests, providing them with an unstructured place where they can think independently, direct their own learning, play passively if they want to and express themselves freely. Reggio Emilia educators believe that children should be given the freedom to explore the outdoor environment and as they conduct their own learning experiences, they will become more engaged in their learning, more resilient, more socially competent and more self-confident. From the tactile surface of bark and grass to a squishy mud patch, a seating area made from tree stumps to a swinging rope, a growing garden to a pond for wading, stones and pebbles for collecting to pieces of wood for building, natural resources provide endless options for children to learn through play. The Reggio Emilia Approach encourages young children and their teachers to explore, question, and discover in a stimulating environment. At Grace Village we aim to provide warm, safe and nurturing environment which will cultivate childrens optimal social and emotional growth as well as their physical and intellectual skills. Learn more about the Reggio Emilia Approach here: https://gracevillage.com.au/reggio-emilia-approach/

05.01.2022 http:// THIRD SPACE OFFERING // Tomorrow (Fri 20/11) we will be spoiling our families at pickup with ICED COFFEE The story of parenthood...unconditional love, chasing your tiny humans, and cold coffee

05.01.2022 | The Reggio Emilia approach | Drawing upon renowned early learning principles from Reggio Emilia and Emergent pedagogies, with a play-based philosophy, our little villagers are given the opportunity to explore, experiment and discover at their own pace. The Reggio Emilia Approach is an innovative and inspiring approach to early childhood education which values the child as strong, capable and resilient; rich with wonder and knowledge.... Every child brings with them deep curiosity and potential and this innate curiosity drives their interest to understand their world and their place within it. There is an inner voice that pushes children on, but this force is greatly multiplied when they are convinced that facts and ideas are resources, just as their friends and the adults in their lives are precious resources. It is especially at this point that children expect as they have from the beginning of their life adventure the help and truthfulness of grownups. - Reggio Emilia approach

05.01.2022 | Transition To School Program // Life Readiness Villager | We started our transition to school program this week a shoe lace tying activity. At Grace Village starting school is an exciting milestone for your child, and for your family. All of you will be experiencing changes as your child settles into a new learning environment, develops new friendships, and spends time with new teachers. Preparing your child for their transition to school prepares them for future learning... and development. Every child will experience their own unique journey when starting school. Along the way children will learn to adapt to new rules, experience new ways of learning, and manage the different expectations of a school day. Feeling successful in their transition to school equips children to better adjust to further emotional and cognitive demands, both in their school life and beyond. Through research, we believe there are a range of additional factors which may affect a child’s ability to adapt to a new environment. This may include their physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive skills, communication skills, and general knowledge. At Grace Village the children participate in our life readiness program which includes them developing their social, emotional, and independence skills. It’s important that your child’s individual needs are considered carefully to ensure that the transition process is both positive and effective. Childcare Reimagined

04.01.2022 | Little Zoo Villager | Our exclusive partnership with Sydney Zoo brings our little villagers a bespoke educational program, which includes excursions, incursions, and VIP animal encounters. Our zoo programs teach children about natural habitat and wildlife, caring for the environment, sustainability, and aboriginal culture, in an age-appropriate way.... Little Zoo Villager: The Zoo is a magical place full of wonder and amazement with so many incredible learning opportunities for your little one! The program will include excursions and VIP personal encounters with animals, sparking curiosity for our little villagers as they explore in a safe and supervised setting. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 1 - EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM AND PRACTICE Quality Area 2 - CHILDREN'S HEALTH AND SAFETY Quality Area 4 - STAFFING ARRANGEMENTS Quality Area 6 - COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS WITH FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES QA 6.2 Collaborative partnerships ~ Collaborative partnerships enhance children’s inclusion, learning and wellbeing. QA 6.2.2 Access and participation ~ Effective partnerships support children's access, inclusion and participation in the program. QA 6.2.3 Community engagement ~ The service builds relationships and engages with its community. Childcare Reimagined

04.01.2022 | Outdoor Villager // Risky Play | Our outdoor play space has lots of natural elements that including trees, plants, rocks, dirt, sand, water and vegetable patches. We encourage children to physically challenge themselves and participate in risky play. Our children can climb trees, move rocks, play in the rain, get covered in dirt and use loose parts to create meaningful play spaces using their imagination.... Risky play can be defined as a thrilling and exciting activity that involves a risk of physical injury, and play that provides opportunities for challenge, testing limits, exploring boundaries and learning about injury risk. Movements that are often associated with risky play, such as, swinging, climbing, rolling, hanging, sliding, are not only fun for children but also essential for their motor skills, balance, coordination, and body awareness. At Grace Village, risky play is implemented in a secure and supervised environment as part of early learning. Our passionate and dedicated educators ensure young children feel confident to engage in this important type of play. Outdoor Villager: The outdoor villager strengthens children’s understanding of the natural world and their role in caring for, and about, each element. It also helps children build physical skills and stamina, enhances their learning and social skills, and teaches them wise ways to manage risk. National Quality Framework: Quality Area 2 - Children's Health and Safety Quality Area 3 - Physical Environment Childcare Reimagined

03.01.2022 [ Transition to school program ] Is it really November? With the end of year in sight, our tiny humans are mentally preparing for the transition to school with the help of their caring educators. . .... While most Grace villagers can’t wait to explore the year ahead and are counting the days, some may be feeling a bit nervous. We’re mindful that they might need a little extra support and encouragement at this time. . . Our approach has allowed your little one to grow in confidence and independence and there’s so much more to explore! We know they’ll continue to thrive through their primary years. Childcare Reimagined

02.01.2022 | Mother's Day Afternoon Tea | We are so excited for today's celebration.

02.01.2022 | Introducing Botley the Robot // The Power Of Play | Our Creators have recently welcomed Botely the Robot into their room. He joins Beebot and together they make a beautiful robot duo. Incorporating coding literacy into early learning education has many outcomes including:... 1. Early Math Skills - If math involves fun projects when students are young, it wont be nearly as daunting when they reach older grades. 2. Creative Thinking Coding - Involves planning ahead and understanding next steps. Children will begin to think about the future in a creative, constructive way. 3. Complex Thinking - The younger children are when they are introduced to programmatic ideas, the better they will understand complex processes in the future. 4. Understanding the World Around Them - Children will grow up understanding how coding affects nearly every aspect of our lives, from phones to video games. Early Learning Matters Week runs from 3 to 7 August. Its purpsoe is to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of early learning. High-quality early education and care supports children to be confident, enthusiastic learners, building a foundation for wellbeing and achievement throughout their lives. "Children learn through various interactions - social, technological and through nature". -Reggio Emilia Approach Let us know what you appreciate or love about your childs early learning experience at Grace Village Early Learning Centre #EarlyLearningMatters

02.01.2022 | Book Week 2020 // DISNEY Theme | And thats a wrap to the magic and amazingness that was our Disney themed Grace Village Book Week for 2020. Thank you to all our families, and our wonderful and dedicated staff, who immersed themselves in all the imaginative wonder

02.01.2022 You gotta love that downtime when the little humans are sleeping angels...

02.01.2022 | CREATORS // Transition To School | Implementing a transition to school program enables the children to develop their developmental skills in key learning areas such as literacy, numeracy, and self help skills. An important self help skill that supports preschoolers as they prepare for 'big' school is being able to independently manage a lunch box. ... CREATORS LUNCH BOX PROGRAM : Starting today (9 November) the CREATORS (ONLY those graduating) are using lunch boxes for lunch and afternoon tea. Please bring in a lunch box for your child to use over the next 2 weeks (9-20 November). The lunch boxes will remain at the village for the duration of the program. There is no need to pack any food into the lunch boxes as they will be filled up each day from the village kitchen. The children will make 2 sandwiches and will also be provided with a whole piece of fruit, and a small packet of Tiny Teddies. This program is designed to help the children develop their confidence when using their lunch box including peeling fruit and opening packets. The children will be encouraged to understand the concept of only eating certain foods at lunch so that they still have food for their afternoon tea. The children will be accessing their lunch boxes in the indoor play area to create a playground experience similar to that at 'big' school. They will develop an understanding that after eating they can go play. Childcare Reimagined

01.01.2022 | Tribe Connect with Jay Lagaaia | To celebrate Book Week 2020, and highlight the importance of exposing children at a young age to literacy and storytelling, we will be having Jay Lagaaia from Play School visit (virtually) Grace Village tomorrow. You may recognise Jay from Star Wars (Episode 2 & 3), Home and Away, Jay Jungle and many more... Jays scheduled performance tomorrow will include:... Opening song: Sung and played by Jay Action songs: - If youre happy and you know it. - Head Shoulders knees and toes - Teddy Bear Teddy Bear An action rhyme using finger play. Rainbow Song with Auslan sign actions. Some magic tricks. Storytelling. Closing song.: Good bye song. Were super excited for Jay to take time out of his day to visit our children during Book Week (virtually)! Tiny Tribe Connect During early times of COVID-19, the virtual experience kept our little villagers connected to the village, and with their favourite educators, during uncertain times. . Were excited to be bringing more Tiny Tribe Connect experiences over the coming months: A surprise virtual excursion next week (announcement to come this Friday) Sharon from Blissful Babies discussing toilet training to our families Diana Wolf from Nepean Speech & Occupational Therapy discussing age appropriate language milestones.

01.01.2022 Great news little villagers Santa Claus is coming to town and no quarantine is required! The COVID-19 pandemic will not stop Santa or his helpers’ entry into NSW on 24 and 25 December, thanks to an extra-special essential workers exemption granted by the NSW Minister for Health, Brad Hazzard.