An update from Anna, our Centre Director - October 2026
Growing independence and preparing for what comes next
We are beginning to prepare ourselves for the fact that, in a few weeks, we will say goodbye to many of our wonderful Kindy friends as they move on to school. We have watched them grow and learn, and we are consoled by knowing they are ready for their next adventure.
We are giving the children as many opportunities for independence as possible, along with the time, space and encouragement to solve problems for themselves. They are taking greater responsibility for their belongings, making their rest beds, signing themselves in and completing daily jobs from a roster.
We are also recognising the many ways in which the children demonstrate responsibility and Yindyamarra. This is important for everyone, whether they are moving on to school or returning as Kindy Leaders next year.
Around the Kindy, we see growing independence as friends collaborate on shared projects, help one another and find the resources they need for their own play and exploration. Yes, they are counting and learning to write, but it is when we see them noticing others, adapting their behaviour, solving problems and communicating effectively that we know they are ready for the next step. They have come an enormously long way since the beginning of the year.
Creating their own play and learning
It is so satisfying to watch children create meaningful play and learning of their own. Give them time and space, open-ended resources, strong and supportive relationships, fair boundaries and some inspiration, and this is what happens.
During the first weeks of term, a group of children created games with their own rules. Some included competitive physical challenges, which the children managed fairly and with enjoyment. It was wonderful to see after all their work towards building positive social skills and flexible thinking.
The long strips of fabric woven into the fort for last month’s Art Show have also found many new purposes. The children have used them to enclose spaces, create costumes and form stalactites in a cave, among many other ideas. Even the teachers were surprised by how many different possibilities the children discovered.
A very snakey start to the term
Balimber Group and their families were greeted by a surprising sight on the first day back when two carpet pythons chose our paved area as an arena for a fierce battle. Expert advice confirmed that they were two males competing for the attention of a female concealed nearby.
It has been a very snakey season, with several snake skins appearing during show and tell. Snakes have also featured in paintings, drawings and storytelling.
These experiences have given us an opportunity to learn how to behave safely and cautiously around snakes while also respecting them and acknowledging their place in our environment.
Talking about Prep
There have been many conversations about Prep, most initiated by the children. Uniforms, teachers and siblings who already attend school are common topics.
Some children have shared that they are feeling nervous, which is a completely normal response. Starting school is a big change, and these conversations give the children opportunities to express their feelings, ask questions and gradually build confidence about what lies ahead.
We have plenty to look forward to this term. Next week, we will participate in the Aussie Bird Count and welcome Kevin back to perform his Reef Experience show.
There is much to enjoy and do. Amongst it all, we will remember to breathe and allow ourselves to be present in the moment.
