Bayfield EEC Newsletter

Water Play in Preschool

2012-01-27T13:40:00.003+13:00

This afternoon some of the children were connecting the pipes together so that it could reach the water trough on the edge of the sandpit area. When they had done this more children came over to help as they too were very intrigued as to what was going to happen. When the water turned on, the children noticed that the water was coming out into the trough but spilling out through the gaps between the pipes. Some of the children quickly raced to place sand over the gaps so that the water would not escape, but still the water would not go down to the trough. So we decided to lift the pipes up to see what would happen. But that didn't work. After about 20 minutes of the children having so much fun with the water going everywhere we managed to get a little bit of water coming out through the pipe and into the water trough. The children had so much fun trying to fix the pipes and having the water run everywhere that they were happy with their end result of only having a drip of water come out and into the trough.

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2012-01-27T13:18:00.005+13:00

2012-01-27T13:18:00.003+13:00

We have had such a fun week this week, with all the warm sunshine. The 3 year old children are all talking about their holidays, and what summer means to them, so over the next couple of weeks we will be having some fantastic activities going on, so make sure that you all check out our planning wall. With all this warm weather, the children are all guaranteed to have water play, so could you please make sure that they all have a couple of changes of clothes for the day. Sunhats are a necessity for your child, too, so it would be great if your child has a named summer hat when they arrive at Preschool. If your child also needs to use their own sunscreen, it would be great if you could label it and let one of the teachers know.

We are all looking forward to our parent evening on the 8th of February, so make sure that you keep that night free.

We also have Playball starting back on Tuesday, 31st January.

Have a fantastic, long weekend everyone and we will see you all back here on Tuesday!

The Preschool Team.

Dates for your Calendar

2012-01-27T13:08:00.002+13:00

Please find below some dates to mark on your calendar.

Pizza and Wine Evening - Wednesday 8th February - 5.45 - 7.30pm
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS FOR ADULTS ONLY - RSVP is required as we are catering for this evening, so please let us know if you will be attending.

Grandparents Day - Wednesday 7th March - 9am - 11am

Mothers Day - Thursday 10th May - 9am - 11am

Fathers Day - Wednesday 29th August - 9am - 11am

More details will follow regarding the above events.

Bayfield Car Park

2012-01-20T14:23:00.002+13:00

You will have noticed by now that Lollipops Educare have opened a centre right next to us, on the corner of Wharf Road and Jervois Road. They have two reserved car parks in the large car park at the back of the centre (which are clearly marked with green Lollipops signs) and the rest of the car parks belong to Bayfield Early Education Centre.
As many of you will be aware, this car park can become very congested at peak times and we do not want our car parks being used by Lollipops. One of our parents has generously donated some stickers for your cars, which will identify you as Bayfield parents. These stickers are available from reception and we would strongly urge you to place one on your windscreen, so that your car in not towed away. Two stickers are available for each family and if you require extras for nannies, grandparents etc who are regular visitors to Bayfield, please do not hesitate to ask.
Regards
Shona Hewitt

Back to Preschool!

2012-01-20T10:16:00.002+13:00

Welcome back to all our children and their Whanau!
We hope you all had a wonderful break filled with fun and the making of lifetime memories.

It is not always easy for children to get back into the routine of coming back to school after a long period, especially when it has been a fun, family time or when there are siblings at home.

"Let's go! Let's go! Come on..... we need to leave now. I am going to be late for work! Did you brush your teeth? Let's go! I am leaving..... NOW!"

We hope that your mornings do not sound like that above. The key to a stress free morning routine is to have a smooth bedtime routine. A routine is something that is followed regularly; standard procedures, and without consistency you will have an uphill battle.

Here are are ideas for you to try:

No yelling. Raising your voice, albeit frustrated, is only going to make the situation worse.

Early to bed, early to rise.

Showers and baths should rather be taken at night. We all know how things can go awry in the mornings.

Let your child help to pack his/her schoolbag before bed. Remember to pack in a hat and spare clothes.

Give one instruction at a time; this works wonders.

Give an instruction once and expect it to be carried out. Repeated requests only send a message that your child does not have to do it immediately.

Set consequences and stick to your guns. (Not an easy one.)

You are the parent; you set the tone for the morning routine and will need to be actively involved. Follow these steps and we can guarantee you 'joy in the morning.'

Enjoy the weekend; it seems we might be in for a real sunny weather one.

Regards

Yvette, Molly, Erin, Earl, Catherine, Rachel, Rebecca and Jo

Some great advice from Rachel Goodchild

2012-01-19T08:42:00.001+13:00

TRIUMPHING OVER FOOD BATTLES
1. Look ahead. No one wants an adult who only eats chicken nuggets. Children need at least seven attempts to a food before liking it (if they don't immediately) The first tip is to not give up offering healthy options. I found my girls won't eat salad as much when it's all put together, but if I place all the ingredients out on a platter, they'll eat far more. We also use the "I'm sorry, but the mango in the salad is only available with the rest of the salad, and you need to eat it if you want more mango" That's turned all three of my daughters into regular lettuce eaters :)
2. The nothing sandwich is a great resolver. If a child refuses to eat the meal you cooked the family, it's a nothing sandwich (plain bread). It won't kill them, and it's enough to stop being hungry, but not that nice that it's preferable over time. That's it. No extra food.
3. If they snack through the day and keep on raiding the cupboards and it's driving you spare, work out what snacks you want them to have through the day to snack on (so two pieces of fruit, one to two biscuits, and maybe a packaged treat such as a muesli bar, and perhaps a vegetable) and let them choose from the fruit boal, and fridge and cupboards what they are going to eat, and place it all in a lunch box. Then THAT IS THE ONLY PLACE they can eat from. Often they'll eat it all by nine the first day. STAND FIRM. They'll learn to pace themselves once they figure you are not going to budge!
4. Remember children are born with a drive to survive. They won't starve to death. You don't need to bend over backwards to make them eat. You may need to stop giving them so many options, and just telling them it's an apple and cheese sandwich or nothing. If a child says they are hungry and won't take an apple or banana... they probably aren't that hungry. - they are just munchy
5. Give them independence around food. Let them butter their own toast, or put their own cheese and tomato on thier crackers.

Merry Christmas Everybody!!

2011-12-23T11:24:00.004+13:00

Wow, this year has come and gone so quickly, and Christmas is only 2 sleeps away! It has been a great year in the Nursery, and we would like to say thank you for such an exciting year, and wish everybody a very happy Christmas and New Year!

Sadly, we are also saying goodbye to Jack, Lilly, Krisarn, Vinnie and Amelia B. who will be in the Toddler Room in the new year. We wish you all the best and hope that you will still remember to say hi to us from next door. We are also saying goodbye to Mel, who will be completing her studies next year. Thank you so much for being a part of the Nursery team, Mel, and we hope to see you around! Victoria will be joining the team to cover Vanessa's position until she returns from her leave next year.

Have a safe and relaxing break, and see you in 2012!

Bayfield Preschool Christmas Party

2011-12-19T14:31:00.016+13:00

There was great excitement and anticipation throughout last week regarding the pending party at Western Springs!

Would Santa be there, and more importantly, would he be able to bring all the children a present??

Both groups were pretty confident that they had all been good enough, and that Santa knows exactly where New Zealand is; all good!

It was a lovely evening. Refreshments, fun, many families and a jolly Santa.

Thank you to everyone who helped to make this occassion such a great success!

Bayfield Christmas Party Photos!

2011-12-16T07:12:00.001+13:00

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Bayfield Christmas Raffle

2011-12-14T13:45:00.002+13:00

Congratulations to Dealla Smith, Miriama's mum in the Nursery, who has won our Christmas Raffle.

2011-12-09T15:29:00.002+13:00

Hi everyone,

What an eventful week the Preschool children have had!
We have welcomed Molly into our room, and welcomed Rachel back from her holiday!

We put up our Christmas tree which now stands pride of place, within what will soon become our Christmas grotto. It's neat to see the children admiring their handy work and the amount of tinsel they placed onto it.

With the sun shining down, we have painted up a storm outside and in, applied heaps of sun block and splashed about in the water trough.

However, the most exciting part of this week has been in the build up to the Christmas party, especially, the excitement around having Santa join us! With the big Jolly fella coming, it will be interesting to see what presents he will bring us.

We look forward to seeing everyone tonight!

P.S We have had alot of cases of head lice swinging around our room, so can you please re-check and treat your children's hair.

(We will be checking this on Monday)

Kind Regards,
Catherine

2011-12-09T15:06:00.000+13:00

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Four Bayfield staff receive long service awards

2011-12-04T15:07:00.001+13:00

Here we have Karen Burton, Mona Bucknell, Molly Sietu and Meher Khan who all received long service loyalty awards for TEN YEARS OF SERVICE! CONGRATULATIONS!

Busy week for the Pukeko chidlren!

2011-12-02T15:38:00.001+13:00

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Toddlers' trip to Lollipop play land

2011-12-02T15:04:00.000+13:00

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Lollipops Playland Toddlers 2

2011-12-02T14:53:00.001+13:00

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Toddlers Lollipops Playland trip 1

2011-12-02T14:43:00.001+13:00

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Busy Tuatara children

2011-12-02T13:20:00.000+13:00

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This is interesting reading for all parents of preschool children

2011-12-02T08:50:00.000+13:00

The Death of Preschool

December 1, 2011

Don't go selling the hide as long as the bear remains in his hole.

-Yugoslavian Proverb

This dramatic title appeared on an article in the latest issue of Scientific American Mind (November/December 2011). It was so provocative that I feared that the article itself would also be way over the top. However, I found that this was a well-reasoned, well-documented case for keeping play as the central focus of the preschool years. Here are some excerpts...

• "Early childhood educators are turning to a method known as direct instruction, which the National Institute for Direct Instruction, an advocacy group, defines as 'teaching that emphasizes well-developed and carefully planned lessons... and clearly defined and prescribed teaching tasks.'"

• "'Scientists are baffled,' says Alison Gopnik, a professor of psychology at University of California-Berkeley. 'The more serious science we do, the more it comes out that very young children are not designed to do focused, goal-directed behavior we think of [as appropriate] for older children, but are to a phenomenal degree very sophisticated about learning from things and people around them.'"

• "Running around in circles, playing with blocks and climbing on a jungle gym may seem like exercise or goofing off to an adult, but several studies have shown that children infer a basic sense of physics through these activities. The possession of fine-motor skills — learned through activities such as drawing and cutting, which coordinate finger movement with visual perception — is one of the strongest predictors of academic success, according to a study by David Grissmer... at the University of Virginia's Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning."

Changes to the Toddler and Preschool Rooms

2011-12-01T13:03:00.000+13:00

Just a reminder that Oriana (Preschool Head Teacher) and Molly (Toddler Head Teacher) will be swapping roles on Monday, the 4th of December. The reason for this is because Krisarn (Molly's daughter) will be moving into the Toddler's room very soon and we have a centre policy that teachers are not allowed to work in the same room as their children. Molly will be working in Preschool, alonside Yvette, as the Head Teacher in the 3 year olds room and Oriana will be in the Toddlers as their Head Teacher.
As always, do ask if you have any queries or concerns.
Don't forget to come to our Christmas party/picnic on Friday, the 9th of December at Western Springs Playground beside the zoo.
Kind regards
Shona

Items wanted...

2011-11-29T12:46:00.002+13:00

Nursery would like more plastic bags - either clean bread bags or supermarket bags would be great. If you have any please drop them into the Nursery anytime over the next few weeks thanks.

Nursery would also like any old pots, pans, ladles, cookware and bakeware that may be lying around waiting to be tossed out. Our young children are very busy 'cooking' in the sandpit and we want to encourage their imaginative play in this area. If you do have suitable items we would love to have them.

Thanks,

The Nursery Team

Babies at work and play

2011-11-25T15:02:00.001+13:00

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Nursery week of 21st November 2011

2011-11-25T14:32:00.002+13:00

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We're going to the zoo

2011-11-25T12:40:00.003+13:00

This week the preschool room had an awesome time on our zoo trip. We had the chance to see lots of the amazing animals of this wonderful world that we live in. From monkeys to penguins, from giraffes to sea lions and even a tortoise too, most of the animals were awake and about.

The children put their hats and sun cream on, and then started our adventure, walking around the big zoo, great exercise. They enjoyed the sights and all the sounds (especially from the monkeys). And at the end of our tour, we all got to sit down, enjoy our lunch and have a special ice creamy treat.

HELP WANTED - anybody interested?

2011-11-23T16:19:00.000+13:00

HELP WANTED

One of our parents is running a weekly mind, body, spirit radio show in the USA via the internet from Tuesday January 24th .

She is in great need of somebody who can input caller details into a software program that will calculate their information whilst she is speaking live on air.

This will be less than an hour’s work and is very easy, however a high level of accuracy is essential.

If you can help on Tuesdays @ 12pm for about 30 mins on Clarence Street, Ponsonby – she will pay you $20.

If this is you or somebody you know please contact Michelle Buchanan on Ph: 360 8960

babies at work

2011-11-18T17:26:00.001+13:00

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A tranquil week in the Pukeko Room

2011-11-11T13:59:00.001+13:00

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Vinnie's 2nd Birthday!

2011-11-10T17:34:00.004+13:00

It was Vinnie's birthday last Thursday, and we were privileged to have celebrated with him last Friday. Check out the photos!

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What have we been up to? Check this out!

2011-11-10T16:59:00.000+13:00

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2011-11-07T12:31:00.003+13:00

Rugby World Cup 2011
We extended the children’s interest in Rugby World Cup Project by making the flags of countries participating in the event. When we brainstormed, all the children expressed their desire to make a “Rugby Stadium” using the Clay (Contribution). Clay helps to explore “Shape” in three dimensions (Exploration).
The children made the clay flags using the clay. While making these flags, the children enhanced their fine motor skills and their concept of shape. They were excited to paint on these clay flags. Previous practice over three sessions of drawing the flags helped the children to add lots of detail while painting on the clay flags (Communication).
The children then made the rugby balls using the clay and painted them. They couldn’t wait to put the flags and the balls together to make the miniature Rugby stadium. This project was awesome for our children to enhance their
- Fine motor skills.
- Creativity and imagination.
- Team Building.
We are also working on learning New Zealand Anthem in Maori and English (Belonging). Without a doubt, our littlies were New Zealanders (Well-Being) after the All Blacks winning the Rugby world Cup for 2011.
Awesome Job!

Preschool Post

2011-11-04T14:34:00.003+13:00

This was the first 'back to normal' week, with all children back from wonderful holidays, or just time at home with families during the school holidays.
And it has been good to see all the happy faces and hear all their lovely stories!

The weather has been perfect for outdoor play, with the result that barefeet, waterplay and wet sand has been very popular, and all the bright colours of summer attire have replaced the dullness of winter.

Investigations around habitats, superheroes and the building of a rugby stadium has generated busy activities and creative thinking, and the "Be Safe" programme with Jude and Toby, the puppet, has been enjoyed by all. The "Virtues Programme continues, and the 4 year olds are getting up and boogying to a music/movement activity on Thursdays.

This week we say goodbye to Liam who is starting entrance class on Monday. We wish him every success as he begins a new learning journey!

And to Rachel, who is going to visit family and friends in India next week, we wish you safe travels and a really happy and restful holiday!

Toddlers doing rock painting

2011-11-01T13:20:00.001+13:00

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2011-10-28T16:33:00.002+13:00

Hello everyone!

What a awesome week we have had, everyone has come back from the hoildays refreshed and ready to go.With the weather turning slowly turning into summer we have spent most of the week hanging out outside, playing on our newly fixed big bikes and filling the water trough with all sorts of interesting objects. Some old interests have arised such as hairdressing, playing mothers and fathers plus a continued interest in animals.

Although, today has been a sad day having to say good bye to Ryder, Phoebe and Yuki.

Have a great weekend, keep safe and we will see you on Monday

2011-10-28T13:10:00.001+13:00

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Building relationship

2011-10-27T10:31:00.000+13:00

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Bouncy Castle Day - Toddlers

2011-10-21T16:31:00.001+13:00

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Toddlers Bike Day

2011-10-21T16:08:00.000+13:00

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Toddlers doing decorating with fresh flowers

2011-10-21T15:23:00.001+13:00

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Another busy week

2011-10-21T15:00:00.000+13:00

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2011-10-21T14:20:00.001+13:00

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Rugby Dress Up Day at Preschool!

2011-10-21T12:22:00.006+13:00

It was amazing that All Blacks made into the final in the Rugby world Cup 2011sporting event. In order to support All Blacks, we celebrated our second “Rugby” dress up day and our littlies were excited about this day. They couldn’t wait to hop on the Biggest Bouncy Castle. They chanted “Go All Blacks Go!” as they jumped on the bouncy castle. Without a doubt, it was a great day of fun and laughter.

Playball starts on Tuesday and our Keeping Safe programme starts Wednesday

2011-10-21T11:43:00.005+13:00

Next Tuesday Playball will be starting up again. The cost will be coming out of your special account. It is generally around $70 per term. Please check your special account balance with the office and ensure it is topped up. There are a few who are in the 'red' or have only a few $$$$ left.

On Wednesday morning and for the next five weeks, the preschool children will be involved with the "We Can Keep Safe" programme. Jude Bishop is the facilitator and she presented a wonderful parent evening on Wednesday (unfortunately only 2 parents turned up). If you have any questions about this programme please ask Shona and can you please return your permission forms as soon as possible so your child/ren can attend the class.

thank you

Shona and Oriana

Take care Edward!

2011-10-14T16:56:00.003+13:00

Bayfield is terribly sad to say a big see you later alligator to Edward Gravit. Edward has been at Bayfield since he was knee high to a Grasshopper, and has been part of the family the whole time.

We will miss his awesome dress ups, his positive attitude toward learning, and just his general personality that has been awesome to have around the place.

It's been great to see Edward grow as a person, and we all have faith that he'll have a great time during the next chapter of his life.

Like anyone that leaves us to adventure through the next part of their life. We hope that Edward can visit us in the future.

Take care.

Our week in the Pukeko Room

2011-10-14T14:17:00.000+13:00

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The Tuatara Children

2011-10-14T13:06:00.001+13:00

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Busy bees

2011-10-07T13:33:00.000+13:00

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Rugby World Cup Flags

2011-10-07T12:28:00.005+13:00

The Rugby World Cup gave our children an opportunity to get acquainted with the different countries participating in this event. We displayed the flags and the dress code of the countries in our four year old’s room for the children to explore.

The children were very enthusiastic and chose to work on the flags of the countries participating in this event. The flags’ outline was given to them to study the patterns.

They figured out the patterns and drew them on paper and coloured them. Perseverance and practice helped the children to be successful in putting lots of detail into the flags they drew. This gave them an amazing opportunity to explore the difference among the vertical, horizontal and cross lines (communication 3:1).

Pukeko Room Update

2011-10-07T10:19:00.001+13:00

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Go the All Blacks

2011-10-03T11:20:00.000+13:00

Our week in Preschool

2011-10-01T20:18:00.002+13:00

We have had another fun filled week inpreschool.
The children have had such a busy week, with Playball on Tuesday and French onThursday.
The weather is definitely getting warmer and the children are doing lots ofoutside activities. We have been able to build blocks outside in the sun, havesome water play in the sandpit, and we are still getting the childrenrequesting rugby game play. Erin and Earl have been teaching the children howto form a correct scrum. This has been tricky, but the children have had somuch fun learning different rugby plays. The rugby has got the childrenextremely interested, and they are learning lots about the flags that we haveplaced in the room. Monday, 3rd October, is "All Black" day, and wewould love to see the children dressed up in all black or white to show oursupport for the mighty All Blacks. Lots of painting and drawing, too, which hasbeen most enjoyable!

Could you all please remember to bring in your child's summer hat, and if theyneed to have their own special sunscreen, please drop it in and give it to oneof our teachers. It would also be helpful if the children had an extra pair ofclothes,since water play will be happening much more often in the warmerweather.

Have a great weekend, and GO ALL BLACKS!!
The Preschool Team.

2011-09-30T13:28:00.001+13:00

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Fun in the Tuatara room

2011-09-29T16:57:00.000+13:00

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Tuatara Room - week of 19th Sept 2011

2011-09-23T16:45:00.000+12:00

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2011-09-23T11:09:00.000+12:00

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Laura's 3rd Birthday

2011-09-22T16:46:00.001+12:00

Rugby Fever....

2011-09-16T16:28:00.003+12:00

What a week we have had, the rain couldn't make up its mind to stay or go, the wind just kept blowing and the children still wanted to run outside! Meaning, with the seasonal weather Auckland is experiencing right now, could you please bring warm clothes, including suitable foot wear for your child.

With the start of the World Cup now a week ago, it still is causing a stir in both of the rooms. The interest in the All Blacks is as alive as ever and the conversations about our flags are always on going. Both rooms have taken up the challenge to learn as much as we can about the different countries competing, the teams that are playing and the matches that are being played.

On another note, today we have had to say good bye to Matthew, our energetic 5 year old, who is leaving us for the exciting adventures of primary school. We wish him all the best and know he is going to have a fantastic time.

Take care and enjoy the rugby!

Fun Times in the Tuatara Room

2011-09-16T13:52:00.001+12:00

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Pukeko Children in Action

2011-09-15T13:45:00.000+12:00

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URGENT, URGENT, URGENT!!!

2011-09-15T12:57:00.003+12:00

Dear Preschool Parents
We have been contacted by the Public Health and we have a confirmed case of Measles. If your child has not been immunised, he or she will need to be excluded from the centre until the 26th of September. Please confirm with your doctor that your child has been immunised and particularly the M.M.R. immunisations are up to date.
Please attend to this matter urgently - if you have any queries, please contact Shona directly at the centre or on her mobile
021 818 162.

Red Cross Raffle Tickets - $ 2.00 each

2011-09-15T08:05:00.003+12:00

We currently have Red Cross Raffle Tickets available for $ 2.00 each. There are two Ford Fiestas up to grabs!! Every ticket supports the New Zealand Red Cross. If you would like to purchase a ticket, please see Shona or Mona at reception.

Avon Studios Photography coming on Wednesday 5th October

2011-09-14T14:22:00.002+12:00

Avon Studios Photographer

James will be coming from Avon Studios to photograph the children on Wednesday 5th October. His programme is to be in Nursery at 9.00 am Toddlers at 10.00 am and preschool at 11.00 am

Recipe for the Play dough

2011-09-14T13:49:00.003+12:00

As requested by some of our parents we are providing the recipe for the uncooked playdough. Make some play dough at home and enjoy messy play with your child.

Uncooked Play dough

Ingredients - 2 cups flour
1/2 cup salt (optional)
1 tablespoon Cream of Tartar
2-3 tablespoons oil
Food colour/paint
1/1/2 - 2 cups warm water

Mix together all dry ingredients. Add oil and food colouring/paint. Add warm water. Mix well until it forms a dough. Knead well to give a smooth dough.

Toddler's World Cup Day

2011-09-12T13:22:00.000+12:00

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Toddler Rugby Players

2011-09-09T16:28:00.000+12:00

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Nursery's support for the All Blacks

2011-09-09T12:56:00.001+12:00

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Nursery adventures

2011-09-08T14:28:00.001+12:00

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Our Father's Day Presents

2011-09-07T18:47:00.008+12:00

Rubber stamps are not just for ink and paper. For a different experience, we decided to use the letter stamps on the clay. During this process, the children are exposed to different tools for pattern making around the clay tile in addition to d, a, d alphabet stamps. This developed an understanding of the properties and the character of the clay.
At first, the children made a rectangle clay tile and then used the alphabet stamps to make up the word “dad”. They used different patterns to make designs around the letters. After drying, they painted with their choice of the colours and their work was outstanding which impressed the dads on the Father’s day morning at preschool. Great touching and thought provoking presents for our dads!

It's fun to play at the YMCA

2011-09-05T12:17:00.007+12:00

The preschool room had a fun and adventurous time at the YMCA in Mount Albert today. We had an exciting bus ride to the gymnasism. When we arrived we got ready with some streatches and we got to meet the nice staff.Then we got to work.

It was great to explore all the fun activities that were set up for us, such as the trampolines, the climbing frames and the walking bar. We saw many of the children test their bravery and their strength through the number of challenging tasks that were there. It was fun to see all the children giving new activities a go, and stepping outside their comfort zone.

Thanks to all the parents that came along and joined in the fun with us, it was really helpful, and we enjoyed your company, so thanks a lot!

Father's day fun in Nursery

2011-09-02T10:01:00.002+12:00

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Fathers Day in the Toddler Room

2011-09-01T12:38:00.000+12:00

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Paper Fun!

2011-08-31T15:31:00.001+12:00

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Caitlin turned 2!

2011-08-31T14:58:00.002+12:00

Caitlin turned 2 last week, and we were so lucky to celebrate with her yesterday! Caitlin and Mum brought in an awesome spider cake, and as we sang happy birthday to Caitlin the children crowded around the table for a closer look of the cake. Everyone enjoyed eating the cake too! Caitlin we hope you had a great day celebrating your special day with us!

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Our preschool week

2011-08-26T17:38:00.001+12:00

This week was a lovely week to spend out in the springtime sunshine. The children really enjoyed being outside, feeling the warmth of the sun on them.
Next week, we have a busy week...Monday, we have our kids at play photographer coming in to spend some time with the children. Thursday, we have our special fathers day morning. This is where the fathers are able to come in and see what their child does throughout the day at preschool. They will be able to catch up with all the other dads, too. On Friday, we have our trip to the Mt Albert YMCA. This will be a trip filled with lots of energy. Please remember to dress the children in suitable clothing and to also wear suitable shoes. Jandals will be tricky for the children to wear and try to participate in.
Just another reminder, if your child has a fever and is not well, the best place for them to be is at home.
The letter of the week for next week is "Dd".
Have a fantastic weekend, and we will see you all next week ready for a fun filled one!

2011-08-25T13:54:00.003+12:00

Customize a picture collage

2011-08-25T13:54:00.001+12:00

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Welcome to Kickstarts

2011-08-24T13:20:00.000+12:00

Kickstarts - Football * Fitness * Fun *

Kickstarts runs structured weekly training sessions, teaching both boys and girls aged 3 - 6 years, the fun and exciting game of football (soccer).
Football is the fastest growing sport within New Zealand, so let us teach your child all there is to know, including; balance, ball control, passing, dribbling, shooting, skills and team work, and we'll ensure they have a huge amount of fun in the process.
To ensure that each child receives the very best quality training, our fun sessions incorporate the fantastic newly developed age-appropriate "Whole of Football Plan" recently released by New Zealand Football.
So whether your child; wants to learn a new sport; keep fit and have fun with similar aged kids or; is already in a team and is looking for additional training; Kickstarts is your perfect choice.
Demand for our quality training is high, so if you would like to enrol your child, please visit our website to either download an Enrolment form or Sign-Up online.
Kind regards
Owen Ellis
Director/KickstartsNZ
M:) 022 KICKSTARTS - e:) info@kickstarts.co.nz

Insect and bug dress up day!

2011-08-24T13:08:00.000+12:00

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Water blasting/ Toddler Playground

2011-08-18T14:52:00.000+12:00

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A new teacher in Preschool

2011-08-18T13:27:00.000+12:00

As you all know Cindy is due to have a baby next month. She was hoping to continue work for another couple of weeks but has had to give up work sooner as her health has not been good. We have a new teacher, Rebecca Reynolds, who will be taking her place. Rebecca has recently moved from South Carolina, U.S.A. and is hoping to make her home in New Zealand. She is a very experienced teacher and she is qualified and registered with the New Zealand Teachers Council. Rebecca has been relieving for the past few weeks and will take over Cindy's maternity position permanently as from Monday, 29th of August 2011. If you have not done so already, please introduce yourself to Rebecca.
Welcome on board Rebecca!

nuserystories

2011-08-18T13:18:00.000+12:00

Free digital scrapbooking design made with Smilebox

2011-08-18T11:34:00.001+12:00

Harrison's 3rd Birthday!

2011-08-18T11:19:00.001+12:00

Digital greeting card personalized with Smilebox

2011-08-12T16:40:00.001+12:00

This digital scrapbooking design generated with Smilebox

Fun, fun and more fun...........

2011-08-12T15:54:00.006+12:00

This has been a busy, busy week for all!
The 4 year olds were thrilled with the rainbow caterpillars they made and were all quite exhausted running after Earl and his kites.
Then we went fishing with rods and magnets and tried desperately to snag a shark or two; some were lucky.
The bikes and scooter have been the main attraction all week. The children have learned to manouvre them in tight circles, and also to wait very, very patiently for their turn. Well done everyone!
Amongst all the fun and joy, also a little sadness. Goodbye to Lily and Sacha as they move on to their next learning adventure.
Enjoy the weekend, everyone.
Go the Springboks!!

Busy Tuatara Children

2011-08-12T14:34:00.001+12:00

Create your own free picture slideshow

Fathers' Day - - Thursday, 1st September

2011-08-11T10:55:00.000+12:00

Come one and all to our Open Morning for Dads on Thursday, 1st of September from 9 until 11.00 a.m..
This is a special morning just for Dads to come in at their leisure and spend some time with their Bayfield child. Even if you can only spare fifteen or twenty minutes, please make the effort as they all look forward to your appearance and love to show off their teachers and what they do at day care.
We will get our cook to make some yummy morning tea and give you all a chance to catch up with the other dads.
See you there....

Kids@Play Photography

2011-08-10T11:25:00.000+12:00

On the week of the 29th August we have Donna from Kids@Play Photography coming to photograph the children. Donna has been coming to the centre for approximately 8 years now and she is very professional in what she does. She takes very natural photos of the children at play throughout the day. Once she has edited them, they will be available for you to purchase. If you DO NOT WANT YOUR CHILD PHOTOGRAPHED BY DONNA, please let us know prior to her coming. More notices will be placed around the centre soon. If you have any queries at all about this, please see Mona or Shona at reception.

Fabulous Creatures Day

2011-08-09T14:08:00.000+12:00

This free photo slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Preschool Week!

2011-08-05T16:15:00.001+12:00

This week has been all about enjoying the sunny weather when we have had the chance. We have had a great week, with kites, rainbows, movement and volcano’s, each child has been bringing their unique individuality to our projects which have allowed them to change and develop. Our little artists have been producing some amazing pieces of work to be taken home and treasured. These are in each child’s folder, and at the moment some of these are becoming very full. Therefore please remember to take these amazing paintings and drawings home.
On another note the children have been enjoying the family corner, and showed a huge interest in developing it. Therefore, we have added a new bed, ironing board (the iron is on its way!) and soon we will be putting in a table and chairs. Please come and have a look at the exciting dramatic play that seems to be developing both inside the sand pit and family corner.
I hope everyone has a great weekend and I know next week will be just as eventful.

Exploring the Toddler Playground

2011-08-05T15:00:00.001+12:00

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PS: Don't forget Dress up Day next Tuesday!!

Toddler's new carpentry table!

2011-08-05T13:19:00.000+12:00

Photo slideshow made with Smilebox

babies at work

2011-08-04T14:14:00.000+12:00

Another scrapbooking design by Smilebox

Butterfly Creek Trip - Lunch and Farm animals

2011-08-02T16:33:00.001+12:00

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Butterfly Creek Trip - Crocdiles and Train rides

2011-08-02T16:07:00.000+12:00

Another digital slideshow by Smilebox

Toddlers' Trip to Butterfly Creek

2011-08-02T15:39:00.002+12:00

The toddlers went on a trip to Butterfly Creek today, we had such a great time under the lovely warm winter sunshine.

Here is a smilebox of some of the photos we took of the bus ride and at the butterfly encounter.

There are still lots more photos to come, stay tuned!!

This free slideshow design customized with Smilebox

Busy Tuatara children

2011-07-29T13:15:00.000+12:00

This slideshow created with Smilebox

Clay ! Clay! Clay!

2011-07-29T11:38:00.005+12:00

Why are we experimenting with the Clay?

Manipulating a piece of clay develops the child’s large and small muscles. Clay play fosters eye-hand coordination. Soft clay is receptive and responsive to all kinds of emotional expression. Clay is so fascinating that some children work for long periods without any adult motivation to maintain their interest. It can be a great way to extend the attention span of some children.
Around three years, children become more deliberate in their clay experimentations. “As scientists, they put clay to a series of tests by rolling, pinching, tearing, pulling, and poking it. Four year olds begin to take their scientific studies to the next step by bringing their clay forms to life. Rolled balls can become snowmen with feelings and thoughts of their own. While they are now making real objects and creatures, it is happening more by chance than actual planning.
At about five years, children now have the confidence and ability to come to the clay table with an idea of what it is they want to make. For them, their challenge is to find the right processes and strategies to fulfil their ideas. This helps children learn to problem solve and to come up with creative solutions to their own ideas (Schirrmacher, Robert. Art and Creative Development for Young Children. 5th ed.
Thomson Delmar Learning, 2006. 254-265).

That’s why we decided to extend our children’s interest in “Rainbows” using Clay as a medium.

The children were very excited to see the white ceramic clay. They did all sorts of things with the clay such as rolling, twisting, spreading and punching it with their thumbs. Then they carefully moulded it in the shape of a rainbow and placed the beads in the right sequence of colours to make an awesome Clay Rainbow. Making this clay rainbow was a great medium for the children to express her creativity and her emotional needs (Well- Being 2:5).

2011-07-28T14:11:00.001+12:00

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Fun in Toddler Room

2011-07-28T14:02:00.000+12:00

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