Belgrave Pre-School introduces children to literacy through play.
IT’S said that the seeds of numeracy and literacy are planted at home.
They are certainly nurtured and encouraged to grow in the natural surroundings of Belgrave Pre-School where teacher Marion Prince has developed wonderful, child-focused programs for three and four year olds.
Literacy is woven into most aspects of play – initially through writing children’s names on their art, then to engaging them in discussions about books and including books and print in dramatic play.
“The four-year-old group are currently making their own books full of fantastic, imaginative tales. What a great read they are,” Ms Prince said.
Singing songs with counting aspects, weighing, measuring and counting, taking turns at play, making score sheets for ball games are just some of the ways the kinder introduces children to concepts of numeracy. “Every child has a story and will learn the same lesson in different ways,” Ms Prince said.
“If we tune into each child, we can offer them a fun learning environment, free from pressure or judgement.
“It’s wonderful to see their confidence grow and imagination ignite. This really sets them up for the exciting school years ahead.”
A new vegetable and sensory garden is being built by the generous community of attending families with help from Junior Landcare, Home Hardware and Manna Gum Garden supplies.
Readers can experience the Belgrave Pre-School community at their open day on Tuesday 31 August from 1.30pm to 3pm at 5 Hayes Place, Belgrave.
The centre can be contacted on 9754 5594.
