At Prep we are exploring the concept of belonging and self-identity.
The Early Years Learning Framework describes belonging as “integral to human existence”.
Experiencing belonging—knowing where and with whom you belong—is integral to human existence. Children belong first to a family, a cultural group, a neighbourhood and a wider community. Belonging acknowledges children’s interdependence with others and the basis of relationships in defining identities. In early childhood, and throughout life, relationships are crucial to a sense of belonging. Belonging is central to being and becoming in that it shapes who children are and who they can become.
How do we experience ‘belonging’ at Prep?
There are lots of ways for us to experience belonging! Right now at Prep, some of those ways include displaying photos of the children’s families, photos on the walls of children engaging in play experiences, photos of the children as babies and name cards with photos.
Each child also has their very own locker for their possessions, and this reflects their belonging at Prep too.
In group times we have been exploring belonging and self identity. The children have talked about how God has made us all special and unique.
In Week 2 our Prep students completed “All About Me” worksheets.
The Gumnut children also painted rocks to look like themselves. These rocks have been added to the construction area for the children to use in their play.
The Blossom children have drawn pictures of their bodies, completed body puzzles of themselves and made paper people.
It is great to see the children’s interpretations of what they look like.