Isabel Henderson Kindergarten is a children’s centre which provides a range of carefully planned play based programs to meet the developmental needs of children in the three to five age group. Special emphasis is given to children who are in the year before school commencement, recognising that we believe kindergarten is a preparation for life.
We believe that play is crucial to the development of children. It is the way they explore, discover and learn about their world, each other and themselves. Our programs are based on our observations of the children and our understanding of Early Childhood principles and reflecting the National Early Years Learning Framework.
Learning through play allows children to explore experience, communicate, observe, reflect, create, collaborate, cooperate, problem-solve and imagine. Our programs are designed to facilitate these processes. Children are encouraged to exercise independence and choice and to initiate play ideas, to focus their attention and to achieve intrinsic satisfaction.
We favour the use of unstructured play materials such as clay, paint, mud, water, sand and blocks for children to develop a positive attitude towards learning and exploring. We place emphasis on the process of creativity and not on the end product.
We value the outdoor environment and believe that children benefit from experiencing the seasonal changes, the opportunities for physical development and the opportunity to play in a garden. We believe in encouraging the children to learn about environmental and conservation issues; emphasis is placed on the use of natural and recycled materials, wise water usage, power saving, recycling, worm farming, composting, vegetable gardening, waste minimization and positive regard and sense of responsibility for all living things
Through play we aim to provide the opportunity for children to experience a wide range of situations and gain skills to help develop self -confidence. Within our learning environment, children can develop a sense of community and group identity.
We value good health and well being and promote the ‘Kids Go for Your Life’ and ‘Sun Smart’ programs.
We value parents’ contributions to our programs through rosters, communication and the Committee and in any way they feel comfortable.
