We have so much to look forward to in Term 2, so grab your calendars and mark the events that you are celebrating with us. There’s tons of adventures in store ..read more

Introduction:  I know what some of you are thinking… “what is heuristic play?”. This term may be a new one to some, but it is simply the term used to describe children’s interaction with everyday objects instead of toys.  In Kangaroo Kids this method of play is near and dear to our hearts since introducing The Curiosity Approach and replacing our brightly coloured toys with more awe-inspiring open-ended resources. We saw a dramatic shift in the children’s attitude towards learning and through this we discovered the wonders found in the small and simple moments in life.  In this ..read more

Introduction: The Magic in the Mess Messy play is a symphony of unbridled creativity that allows children to use their natural curiosity and engage their senses at the developmental stage that is appropriate for them. At first glance it may seem like messy play is just a fun pass-time, however, this beautiful form of play actually holds incredible benefits that expand into many different areas of development. So, while it may seem like there is no point in your little one mushing their hands into the mud or using their fingers to paint, they are actually doing some serious learning! Beyond thi ..read more

Unlocking the Essence of Schemas In the enchanting realm of early childhood development, schemas play a vital role in shaping a child’s understanding of the world around them and the way things work. Picture them as the delightful URGE within all children: a compelling force guiding them to explore, question, discover, and learn through repeated patterns of behaviour. Each child has a distinctive and unique way of learning, with some showcasing a prolific dominant schema, others expressing a cluster of these patterns, and some embarking on a completely unique journey with no evident schemas at ..read more

The idea of repeating the same story, singing a familiar nursery rhyme, or engaging in an identical activity might seem monotonous to adults, but for young children, it’s a great source of comfort and learning. In this blog, we delve into why repetition is far from boring; instead, it’s an essential and highly beneficial aspect of early childhood development. Why Repetition Matters To fully comprehend the significance of repetition in early childhood, it’s crucial to see it through the eyes of a child. Repetition is not about experiencing the same thing repeatedly; it’s about experiencing it ..read more

Scaffolding – it might sound like a term reserved for the construction site, but it plays a pivotal role in early childhood development. As educators and parents, understanding this process can empower us to nurture children’s learning effectively and with the utmost attention and care. In this blog, we’ll delve into what scaffolding means in early education and why it’s invaluable in shaping young and growing minds. How Scaffolding Nurtures Development Scaffolding isn’t about hard hats and steel structures. It’s about providing the right support to children at the right time and in the right ..read more

Unlocking the Power of Learning Provocations Children are like sponges, always curious, soaking up the wonders of the world around them. Their insatiable desire to explore, experiment, and question is the driving force behind their learning journey. From examining the mysteries of nature to crafting their theories about the universe, the world is their playground, brimming with opportunities to quench their thirst for knowledge. As educators and caretakers, it is our privilege and responsibility to nurture this inherent curiosity. But how can we cultivate an environment that enhances children ..read more

Risky play offers children incredible opportunities for growth and development. While the word “risk” may make some parents and caregivers apprehensive, it is important to understand that risky play is an integral part of a child’s learning journey. In this blog post, we will explore the world of risky play, its benefits, and how parents, teachers, and caregivers can provide the right support. We will also discuss finding the balance between safety and adventure to ensure a healthy and enriching childhood. The Benefits of Risky Play Risky play involves activities where children intentionally ..read more

The journey of early writing skills begins long before a child starts forming letters on a page. As parents or caregivers, you play an indispensable role in nurturing this essential aspect of your child’s development. Early writing skills encompass not only the mechanics of holding a pen but also the cognitive, fine motor, and socio-emotional abilities that underpin successful writing. This blog will guide you through actionable strategies and insights that will empower you to pave the way for your child’s budding writing skills.   The Building Blocks of Early Writing Before diving into ..read more

Unlocking Joyful Moments with Your Child Parenting can be a whirlwind of responsibilities, schedules, and tasks. As you navigate through the demands of daily life, it’s easy to forget the importance of play. Yet, play is not just an enjoyable pastime; it’s a vital component of a child’s growth and development. In this blog post, we’ll explore why play is crucial and offer a few fun ways to become a more playful parent.   The Power of Play More Than Just Fun Play is a child’s language. It’s how they make sense of the world around them. Through play, children develop their creativity, pr ..read more