Nara Pre-School

August 2010 News

Green Group (3yo) Teacher:

We are very pleased to welcome Lainey Walsh as our 3yo Teacher for the second half of 2010.  Lainey has proven qualifications and experience, making her a real asset to our children.  Welcome Lainey.

Cheryl Coady is currently on maternity leave – we will keep you informed as any “baby” news comes to hand.

Thank You:

• Thank You to Rachel Terkelson (mum to Eve in Green Group) for designing the flyers and billboards for our Open Day in May.
• Thank you to Australian Paper Recovery Ltd for the making the effort to personally deliver a secure document bin to the preschool at short notice, in time for a working bee.
• Thank you for Clare, Claire, Rosa, Michelle, Carolyn, Christine and Kate for cleaning up Nara’s paperwork and filing during the holidays.
• Thank you Wilson Transformers for donating some wooden “Cable Reels” for our children to play with outside.

Fundraising:

• Tea Towels – as we are still finalising some pictures we can still accept late orders until Friday 6th August AT THE LATEST.  Tea towels will be delivered the last week of term 3.
• Don’t forget to return money from Cadbury Chocolates by Friday 6th August.   Thank you.
• Picture Plates have been ordered, and are due back before the end of Term 3.
• It is a bit early to be thinking about Christmas, but to get in early for your diary – Sunday 5th December is Christmas Family Fun Day with lots of entertainment for everybody and our last fundraising social event for 2010.

KindergartenEnrolments:

First round offers have been sent out for 2011 kindergarten places.  We recommend families confirm their 2011 offers as soon as possible, in order to secure a place.

Enrolment queries?

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Carolyn Thorburn – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Christine O’Rourke – 0410 043 713

2010 Parent Survey:

Our Annual Parent Survey will be sent to all families in the next few weeks.  Please complete and return the surveys promptly, as they provide important feedback to our teachers and committee.  Your feedback allows us to know what we do well and what we can improve upon.

To keep families informed we will provide a summary of Parent Survey results in a future newsletter.

2011 Idea?

Due to the difficulty some families have accessing 3 year old kindergarten, we were wondering if there was any interest in a Saturday program.  Perhaps for three or four hours each Saturday morning?

If you have any feedback or this interests you, please contact our 3yo Enrolment Officer, Christine, on 0410 043 713.

Waverley Cinemas:

In less than 12 months we have received:

• 25 double passes to the movies
• $50 cash
• $25 Subway voucher

All that – just from our parents, teachers and friends registering online!

Keep “clicking”, or START “clicking”.  It takes less around 10 seconds a day (you can only register once each day).

http://waverleycinema.com/program/club0035.php

2011 Session Times:

Our 2011 times and groups have been confirmed (please note Green and Blue group changes):

3YO – Green Group:
Monday 9:15 – 11:45pm, Thursday 12:45pm – 3:15pm

4YO – Blue Group:
Monday 12:45pm – 3:45pm, Tuesday 9:15am – 3:15pm, Thursday 9:15am – 12:15pm

4YO – Red Group:
Wednesday 9:15am-3:15pm, Friday 9:15am-3:15pm

“Tooth Tips”:

Clean Well:

• Encourage your child to try brushing their own teeth, but continue to brush their teeth for them, at least twice a day (after meals and before bed).
• Use a low fluoride toothpaste from two to six years of age unless otherwise recommended by a dental professional.
• Smear a pea-sized amount of toothpaste onto the brush.
• Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.

Mouth Checks:

• Mouth checks are suggested activities included in the 3½ and 4 year old health assessments with the maternal and child health nurse.
• It is recommended that dental check-ups start with toddlers.
• Consult your dental professional, maternal and child health nurse, family doctor or paediatrician for further information.

Road Safety:

Our next information board will be on road safety.  We also have some booklets and a DVD for parents to borrow.  We encourage you to consider and discuss safety with your children – safety in the car, getting in and out of the car safely and pedestrian safety.

Parent Library:

A reminder that we have a parent library that parents can borrow books from.  We have some new booklets on healthy eating and cooking for children and a family book that parents may be interested in looking at.   Our library is located in the yellow cupboard in our kindergarten foyer.

Green Group (3yo) News:

Hello to the families of Nara Kinder;

I would like to introduce myself, my name is Lainey Walsh and I will be the Kindergarten teacher for the 3 year old group at Nara for terms 3 and 4.  I have worked with children for five years and have  completed my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.  I have my own little son, Harlow, who is eight months old and just gorgeous.

My beliefs and philosophy when teaching your children are very much based around the statement “play equals learning”.  I will strive to make all the children feel comfortable and valued at their kinder.  I believe that the early years are the most influential.  Setting a positive and stimulating environment with excellent role models is the best way to allow children to learn and further their development in all areas.  I will program not only for, but also with the children, by actively engaging them in experiences of their interest.  I look forward to getting to know you and all your children.

Please feel free to approach me about anything, even just to say hi!

Coming up – “Dove Puppets” Incursion Monday 9th August.

Regards,

Lainey and Pam

Red and Blue Groups (4yo) News:

We are now half way through the year and what a busy time that has been. The visit to Sussex Heights Primary school was a big success. The children experienced aspects of school life and enjoyed the walk home.  We have created a book on the visit, where the children have drawn pictures, told us their favourite part of the day and included photos.  Please spend some time reading this with your children.

The children have been hiding treasure for each other to find. They have been creating maps and also making hats and patches.  One group made a big ship out of the wooden box outside.  Also we have been reading stories on treasure hunts and Pirates.

The children have been playing soccer.  We talked about the rules of the game, about the countries that were playing and then the children talked to me about the yellow and red cards.  From this we made up some rules and if they were not followed, they got a card.  This then changed the way the game was played.  Some children made numbers in their team colours and attached them to their clothes.

The table tennis balls have continued being used outside.  The children have bought tubes/pipes to the steps, arranging these in different ways and exploring the direction the balls go.  Some children are using the wheelbarrows to tip the balls from the top of the step watching all the balls go in different directions, while other children are trying to catch them.

Throughout all of the above play experiences, the children have developed skills from the frame work ‘Belonging, Being, Becoming’.  Areas being developed include:

• Belonging to a group
• Becoming aware of fairness
• Becoming strong in their social awareness and emotional well being
• Researching, problem solving and investigating, using symbols
• Verbally and non-verbally communicating with others.

Thank you to one of our parents who donated some carrot seedlings which we have planted and watered.  They also gave us some seeds which we will plant as the weather gets a bit warmer.

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

Newsletter Feedback:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our newsletter?  Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie (news@narapreschool.org.au), Vanessa, Lainey or any member of the Nara Committee know.   All suggestions and input gratefully received!

June/July 2010 News

4YO LIBRARY PROGRAM:

Don’t forget your library bag!  Blue group – Tuesdays, Red group – Fridays.  The children have opportunity to borrow a new book each week from our Nara Library.

KINDER PHOTOS:

Our kinder photos will be taken the second week of next term.  Please put the date above on your calendar.

WARM CLOTHES:

Outdoor play is important to the health and wellbeing of the children.  As part of our program we will be going outside unless it is raining.  Please make sure your child has appropriate warm clothes for outdoor play – a hat and warm jacket, or jacket with a hood is ideal.

If you feel your child is too unwell to play outside, they really should be kept at home, rather than attending kinder.

FUNDRAISING:

Thank you to all the families that supported the Monash Community Raffle.  Nara raised $673 – this money is being spent on some new outdoor play equipment.

Picture Plate and Tea Towel orders are in progress now.  These make terrific presents, and will be received back in plenty of time for Christmas.

Next term we will be sending Cadbury Chocolates home with families.  Again – thank you for supporting Nara’s fundraising activities – helping the Pre-School provide better educational resources for all of our children.

PLANTS, SEEDLINGS:

We would be grateful if any families could donate either indoor plants, or seedlings for our vegetable garden.

HEALTHY LUNCHBOX:

We still have some children arriving at kinder with processed and sugary foods in their lunchbox.   At Nara we encourage healthy eating, and ask that parents ensure that snacks and lunches contain healthy food such as sandwiches, fruit and vegetables.  Cakes and sweet biscuits should not be part of your child’s usual kinder snack or lunch.

PHOTOCOPIER:

A huge thank you to Caroline Aldred and her work for donating their photocopier to the kinder.  The staff report back that they don’t miss the constant paper jams from the old copier!

NARA OPEN DAY 2010:

Thank you to parents and staff for helping organise and host a successful Nara Open Day.

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

2011 enrolments – central enrolments with Monash City Council close on 30th June.

Enrolment queries?

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Caroline Thorburn – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Christine O’Rourke – 0410 043 713

“TOOTH TIPS”:

Eat Well

• Offer healthy snacks between meal times such as fresh fruit pieces and yoghurt, cheese and dry biscuits, chopped vegetables and sandwiches.

• Limit sweet sticky snacks, such as fruit/muesli bars, sweet biscuits, lollies, chocolate and fruit strips.

Drink Well

• Encourage your child to drink tap water every day (this provides the benefit of fluoride).
• Limit sweet drinks, including fruit juices/drinks, soft drinks and cordials (either bought or home-made).
• Offer plain milk in a cup (reduced fat plain milk may be encouraged from two years of age).

• A bottle is not necessary after 12 months.

GREEN GROUP TEACHER:

With Cheryl commencing Maternity Leave earlier than expected, our 3 year old group has been very lucky to have Jane as a teacher until the end of this term. We are in the process of appointing a new teacher for our three year olds for the last two terms of the year, and hope to be able to give you an update soon.

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

It is with great delight that I join Green group in the absence of Cheryl.  As reported to you in my short news letter I have taught at Brentwood Preschool for 16 years teaching both the 3 & 4 year old groups.

I am quickly getting to know the children’s names and would love families to introduce themselves to me and chat about your child when helping on duty or after the session.  Please feel free to see me after the session if you have any questions or queries about the program or some information that may help with your child’s time at Kindergarten.

I, like many other teachers in Melbourne, am getting to know the new Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Program and am incorporating many learning aspects into our program over the next few weeks.

I look forward to working with your children and discovering their learning interests.  Please feel free to email the preschool about what your child is doing and what they like as it all helps with my planning.  If you would like photos of your child at preschool please send an email to me at the preschool and I will endeavour to forward photos to you for your records.  Please put your child’s name on the email.  nara.kin@kindergarten.vic.gov.au

I am starting a take home book for the children to get to know each other.  Pam and I will add some information about ourselves to this book.  Have fun reading it when it comes to your house.  This helps the children learn the names of their peers and allows us to learn a little about their likes and interests.

Happy Parenting,

Jane Raymond and Pam

RED AND BLUE GROUPS (4YO) NEWS:

Following the dinosaur visit (which was a big success) the children have been talking about fossils, size, and volcanoes.  (Heather made a volcano with the children, using bicarbonate soda).  The children made many objects relating to dinosaurs and we also created a book about what we liked about the visit.

We have been cooking, planting and talking about healthy eating.  Whilst exploring bubbles, we have looked at their movement in the air, their shape and colours.  From this other experiments occurred with balls – blowing table tennis balls/marbles and experimenting with bouncing and rolling the balls using ramps and different surfaces.

The children have been matching and sorting objects, using lots of language during these experiences.   This has lead into looking at shapes and colours as well as different animals.

The children have also been using lots of boxes to form creations, drawing many pieces and some are exploring letter and word shapes.

We are talking also about making books and writing stories and the children are becoming interested.

Again we invite interested parents to share their skills with the children.  We are especially interested in cooking, and can organise the ingredients.

With almost half a year completed, the children are learning and changing quickly.  You are welcome to discuss your child’s progress with us, either in brief, or by making an appointment with Vanessa.

Also, Vanessa may be contacted by email –  nara.kin@kindergarten.vic.gov.au .

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

FEEDBACK:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our news blog?  Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie (news@narapreschool.org.au), Vanessa, Cheryl or any member of the Nara Committee know.   All suggestions and input gratefully received!

April/May 2010 News

SMILES FOR MILES

Again Nara has been selected by the City of Monash to participate in the Smiles 4 Miles dental initiative.

Eat Well – promoting fresh fruit and vegetables rather than pre-packaged foods that are high in sugar and/or fat

Drink Well – promoting water rather than sweet drinks

Clean Well – encouraging regular tooth brushing supported by parents

Your children will have received a free water bottle and lunchbox as part of this initiative.  We will include some “Tooth Tips” in each of our newsletters, and hope you will join us in encouraging your children to take care of their teeth.

FUNDRAISING:

Don’t forget to return your tickets/money back to Nara before kinder April 30.  Just imagine if one of our Nara families wins a car!

Other fundraising activities for Term 2 include Picture Plates and Tea Towels.

TERM 2 FEES:

Term 2 fees were due by Friday March 26 (the final day of Term 1).  Any unpaid Term 2 fees are now overdue.

Our preferred payment option is internet direct debit.  Cheque payment is also available.  Although payment may be made by cash – we very STRONGLY DISCOURAGE this, as it poses security risks for the kinder.

Details for electronic payment are as follows:

Account Name:                          Nara Pre School Association Inc.
Bank Account Number:           00900501
BSB Number:                               063 151
Description:                                 Child’s Name Term X    ? You must include a description

BOXES, BOXES:

The children love being creative with recycled boxes.  We encourage families to drop off small boxes  and tubes for the children to use – please no boxes from nut products or toilet rolls.  Thank you.

HOT CROSS BUNS:

A huge thank you for Andrew and Jay from Brumby’s Bakery Mount Waverley for again making hot cross buns with our kindergarten children – giving freely of their time, expertise and ingredients.  From what we have seen – not too many hot cross buns survived until the end of kindergarten – Yum!

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

2011 enrolments – central enrolments with Monash City Council close on June 30th.

Younger siblings – for Nara sibling policy to apply, 2011 Nara enrolments must be lodged with Monash City Council before May 31st.

Enrolment queries?

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Caroline Thorburn – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Christine O’Rourke – 0410 043 713

KPV EARLY YEARS CONFERENCE:

Kindgergarten Parents’ Victoria (KPV) Early Years Conference is June 4th and 5th at Caulfield Racecourse.  Parents, teachers and kindergarten committees are welcome to attend.  More information is available from KPV.  http://www.togetherwegrow.com.au/

“TOOTH TIPS” – Thumb and Finger Sucking:

• Sucking on thumbs, fingers and toys is healthy and normal during infancy.
  • Most children spontaneously stop sucking between two and four years of age.
  • Thumb and finger sucking after four years of age can affect the child’s appearance, speech and ability to bite.
  • When permanent teeth start to erupt (6-7 years), sucking on thumbs, fingers and dummies may cause teeth to grow out of line.
  • Did you Know?  Children are more likely to suck their thumbs when they are:
    • Tired,
    • Stressed,
    • Hungry, or
    • In a new or threatening environment.

For more information contact Dental Health Services Victoria  http://www.dhsv.org.au/ .

WANT TO SHARE SOMETHING?

Parents who may have a special skill or activity to share with our kinder children are invited to speak with Cheryl or Vanessa.  Some ideas that may interest the children include cooking, musical instruments, something to make, other cultures and careers (such as Policeman, Nurse, etc).

FAMILY PHOTOS:

Families are reminded to send along a family photo to kinder.  For 4yo children a framed photo is best, for 3yo children a plain photo we can stick to the wall is best.  All photos and frames will be returned to families at the end of the year.

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

The children are settled, and more comfortable at kindergarten.  It is wonderful seeing their confidence and skills develop as they relax and join in more.

This week is our Teddy Bear’s Picnic and walking excursion to the Post Box where our “very special” invitations will be posted for our Mother’s Day Morning Tea.

In May the children will participate in a Movement and Learning Incursion with Brendan O’Hara.

Regards,

Cheryl and Pam

RED AND BLUE GROUPS (4YO) NEWS:

The children are well settled, making friends and creating many different play experiences.  Lots of sharing ideas, building on these ideas and learning from each other has occurred.  We talked about many topics last term including healthy eating – different foods and drinks, people being the same and different, being safe and about the days of the week.

We have headed into a busy Term 2 with successful Dinosaur incursions from Museums Victoria.   The children were able to touch some fossils, see the sizes of some of the dinosaurs and learnt about what happened to them. They experienced being dinosaurs though different movement activities.  We are now creating a book of the visit which will have photos, drawings and comments that the children have made.  Please have a look at it with your child.

Movement and Learning Workshops are planned for May, and excursions to Sussex Heights Primary School in June.

Portfolios are now prepared for each pupil.  The portfolios will continue to be developed and added to throughout the year.  Parents and children are encouraged to review their portfolios regularly, take them home and also to add stories and comments to them.

If you still have not returned your child’s “Who Am I?” sheet to us, please would you return these as soon as possible?

Vanessa is away for two weeks from Friday April 21st to Friday May 7th.  Cheryl and Heather Roe will be filling in for Vanessa.

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

NEWSLETTER FEEDBACK:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our newsletter?  Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie (news@narapreschool.org.au), Vanessa, Cheryl or any member of the Nara Committee know.   All suggestions and input gratefully received!

Newsletter items are also posted on our website: www.narapreschool.org.au

February / March 2010 News

EASTER FAMILY FUN DAY – Sunday March 21 10am-12noon:

This promises to be a great day for all – with BBQ, Easter Egg Hunt, Easter Raffle Drawn, Lucky Dips, a special Easter visitor (with a little cotton tail who loves to hop?) and more!  Don’t forget to write this in your diary.

In the next week or so there will be a basket in the foyer for donations for our Easter Raffle.  We are requesting donations of Easter Eggs, etc.  If everyone contributes we will have a fantastic raffle!

NUT FREE POLICY:

We have children enrolled at our pre-school who have severe nut allergies.  Exposure to even a trace of nuts can be life threatening for these children.  Therefore NO NUTS are to be brought to Nara Pre-school.  Peanut butter, Nutella and other nut products are banned.  Also, upon arrival at Nara children are required to wash their hands with soap.  Thank you.

SUNSMART:

Nara Pre-school is a sunsmart centre.  Sunscreen and Sun hats (either broad brim or legionnaires style) must be worn by children when outdoors.  Children must have sunscreen applied by their parents/carers before or upon arrival at kindergarten.  For long day sessions, staff will assist children with reapplying sunscreen during the session.  Thank you for your assistance

TERM 2 FEES:

Term 2 fees are due by Friday March 26 (the final day of Term 1).  Our preferred payment option is internet direct debit.  Cheque payment is also available.  Although payment may be made by cash – we very STRONGLY DISCOURAGE this, as it poses security risks for the kinder.

Details for electronic payment are as follows:

Account Name:                          Nara Pre School Association Inc.
Bank Account Number:           00900501
BSB Number:                               063 151
Description:                                 Child’s Name Term X    ? You must include a description

MONEY FOR NOTHING:

Our parents and committee work hard raising funds for Nara Pre-school.

Here are two quick, easy fundraisers that don’t cost us a cent!

• Ritchie’s Card / Key Tag – Simply present your card or key tag each time you shop at any Ritchie’s supermarket  and  1% of your spend is donated to Nara Pre-school.  Cards and key tags registered to Nara are available in the foyer.
• Waverley Cinemas website – Save this address in your favourites folder on your web browser, then click daily to register for our Nara Fundraiser.  This takes less than a minute each day.  As the number of “hits” accumulates, Nara receives movie tickets and money.  Also you have a chance of winning tickets and other prizes when you register daily.
  http://waverleycinema.com/program/club0035.php

WORKING BEES/GARDENING – CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS:

Thank you to everyone who assisted over the holidays.  We had people looking after bins, mail and indoor plants, whilst others gardened.  We also had two working bees and achieved a significant amount.  The wooden playground equipment was oiled to protect it from the weather, the sandpit sides were raised, new garden bed edging was installed, as well as lots of general cleaning up and gardening.  All of this was completed by volunteers.

Thank you to Eddie Stopanjik, Mick and Michele Jays, Christine O’Rourke, Melissa Eilers, Kelly Vimpani, Kathie and Peter Halliday, Kate Bristow, Adam Thorburn, Gideon and Claire Dorrington, Claire McAvaney and Gabrielle Mattille for giving your time and energy to Nara.

Also thank you to Bunnings Nottinghill for the sleepers and other goods they donated.

ARE YOU A “GREEN THUMB”?:

We are seeking a few parents who are happy to do a bit of gardening for Nara.  If a few people can assist with weeding and tidying for an hour or two each term we will be able to maintain the garden properly.  If you are able to help, that’s great.  Just see Vanessa or Cheryl, organise a time that suits you and start gardening!

BUNNING’S BBQ – Sunday February 14:

Our Bunning’s Fundraising BBQ was successful, despite a rainy start.  The BBQ was very early in the kinder year, and it was terrific that so many were able to assist.

Many thanks to Gabby Mattille, Kathie Halliday, Kate Bristow, Mishel, Adam Thorburn, Kelly Vimpani, Hamish McKeonn, Andy Boys, Christine O’Rourke, Manjula Navaratine, Kelly and Jason Braun, Eddie Stopajnik, Michelle Jays, Clare Morrissy, Ranbit, Henriet Alexander-Jenshell, Claire and Grant McAvaney and David Phillips.

Thanks also to Safeway for donating 8kg of sausages, and to Brumby’s Mount Waverley for donating the lovely fresh bread!

CONGRATULATIONS VANESSA!:

Vanessa (our 4yo teacher) has been selected for the National Dragon Boating Team representing Australia in the Asian Games later this year.  Congratulations and good luck!

2010 NARA COMMITTEE:

President:                                           Kate Bristow

Vice President:                                 Claire Morrissy

Secretary:                                           Gabrielle Mattille

Treasurer:                                           David Phillips

Communications Officer:              Kathie Halliday

IT Officer:                                            Colin Entwistle

Enrolment Officers:                        Christine O’Rourke (3yo)
Caroline Thorburn (4yo)

Assistant Treasurers:                      Kerry Braun (3yo)
Rosa Phillips (4yo)

Maintenance Officers:                     Sue Monagle
Wayne Campbell

OH&S Officer:                                      vacant

Purchasing Officer:                          Caroline Aldred

Fundraising Officers:                      Clare Dorrington, Claire McAveney, 2 vacancies

General Committee:                      Kelly Vimpani, Michele Jays, Eddie Stopajnik

COMMITTEE VACANCIES:

We are seeking assistance with fundraising.  Last year we had four people on our fundraising team, however, we only have two people this year.  Please let us know if you can help out by joining our fundraising team.  Any help (large or small) would be greatly appreciated – committee meeting attendance is not essential.

MONASH COMMUNITY RAFFLE:

Nara Pre-school is again participating in the Monash Community Raffle.  Organised by Rotary, this raffle enables us to offer huge prizes, such as cars, whilst profiting the kinder (80% of ticket sales go to the kinder).  This year the raffle takes place during March and April, with tickets due back at kinder April 30.  We hope that all families will support this community raffle.  Just imagine if one of our families wins a car!

PARENT LIAISON OFFICERS:

The following Nara committee members have volunteered to act as Parent Liaison Officers.  If you have any matter you wish to bring to the attention of the Committee, please contact the representative from your child’s group.  Contact details are listed on the notice in the foyer.

Green Group:                    Caroline Aldred and Kate Bristow

Blue Group:                        Clare Dorrington

Red Group:                         Gabrielle Mattille, Carolyn Thorburn

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

Enrolment queries?

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Caroline Thorburn – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Christine O’Rourke – 0410 043 713

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

Welcome to all of our Green Group children and their families.

Our three year old children have been settling in at Nara over the last three weeks in our short sessions.  These small groups have allowed the children to become familiar with the kindergarten and with Pam and myself in a quiet setting.  Thank you to our parents for being understanding during our small group sessions and assisting us by dropping off and leaving quickly.

Our full group sessions start this week.  From Monday February 22 all Green Group children will attend two sessions each week – Monday 12:45 – 3:15 and Thursday 9:15 – 11:45.  Mainly this term will allow for the children to be familiar with the routine of kindergarten, separating from their parents and learning to work within the same space as other children in the group.

Please could you bring in a photo of your child with their family?  We will then display these photos for us all to enjoy.  This serves as a comforting tool for your child, seeing some familiarity in the kinder room, and also helps other families get to know you and your child.

Parents are invited to join us for morning tea on Thursday March 4 from 10am.   This is a great chance for parents, children and teachers to meet each other.  Please bring along a (nut free) plate of food to share, instead of sending a snack for your child.

During the year we are available, should you wish to discuss how your child is going at kinder.  At the end of a session once the children have left is best, or please make an appointment.

Regards,

Cheryl and Pam

RED AND BLUE GROUPS (4YO) NEWS:

I would like to welcome everyone to Nara and am looking forward to the year to come.

All the children are settling into the program.  They are exploring the many experiences available and learning each other’s names and of course the teachers’ names.  Some of the experiences the children have enjoyed include painting, block building, home corner, play dough, water play and dinosaurs.  Outside the hoops, sand, farm animals and the big blocks are used regularly.  The children are becoming familiar with the routines of the kinder as well.

As part of sharing information with family members, every week, next to the sign in book, there will be a reflection book for you to read about some of the experiences the children were involved in during the week. On the wall as you come in there is a plan of the months’ experiences being set for both inside and outside.

Throughout the year you will have opportunities to see our digital photo frame setup with photos of your child’s participation throughout the day.  Another way we will be sharing information is the portfolios.  These are your child’s individual records that will be built on throughout the year.  If you wish to add information/stories to these you are most welcome.  Later in the year you may want to sit with your children and look through these and talk to them about the photos that will be included.

Over the next term the children will be bring home a book with the childrens’ photos so they can become familiar with the other children in the group and you can see the friends they have made.  Please encourage them to draw a picture and place it in the back of the book.

If you wish to talk to me about anything please make a time.  I am available most days after the session, once the children are gone and I am usually around till about 4:30-5pm.  I am also available Monday afternoons and Thursday mornings.  Please make an appointment.

Vanessa:  I would like to tell you something about me I have been working with children for 15 years in a variety of different settings.  I have been involved in Guides for a number of years.  Now  my main hobby is dragon boating (a big canoe that has 22 people paddling it).  Through this sport I have represented Victoria a number of times and this year I have been selected to represent Australia in the Asian games this April.  (Some people were asking about coming to Docklands to see an event.  There is one on March 21 that runs all day).

Louise: I have trained as a mothercraft nurse and have been working with children for about 15 years, mainly working in childcare and kinder settings.  I have three children which keep me very busy as they have more of a social life than I do.  In my spare time I enjoy playing netball and I walk the thousand steps (in Ferntree Gully) once a week.

In Blue Group we have Sandra from Connections working with us for 8 hours a week and will also have someone else helping Blue Group for 6 hours a week.  Thank you to Georgia who is halfway through her placement at Nara currently – Georgia you have been a great help in the kinder room, thank you.

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD:

• The Great Fete:  Holy Family School, 250 Stephensons Rd, Saturday March 13 10am-4pm.
  A great day out with rides, giant slide, carousel, fun games, animal farm, books, plants …. come and check it out!

NEWSLETTER FEEDBACK:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our newsletter?  Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie know by email (news@narapreschool.org.au), in person, or via Vanessa or Cheryl or a member the Nara Committee.   All suggestions and input gratefully received!

Newsletter items are also posted on our website: www.narapreschool.org.au

December News

CHRISTMAS FAMILY DAY BBQ:

Includes Mini-golf, Sausage sizzle, Aboriginal elder visit , Christmas Raffle Prize Draw.  Hope to see you there.   Oh – and don’t forget to donate – toys, xmas fare, etc – for our Christmas Raffle.

TRANSITION REPORTS FOR 4YO STUDENTS:

THESE ARE NOW URGENT!
Vanessa has been working hard preparing Transition Reports for each four year old student.

Parents are also required to complete part of the form.

Please see Vanessa AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you have not completed your part of the form, have lost or misplaced the form, or have any queries.

These reports are new this year, and provide important information for both parents and Primary Schools.

BUNNING’S BBQ – SATURDAY DECEMBER 12^th:

We STILL require some helpers for our Bunning’s BBQ in December.   Please add your name to the roster urgently!  Thank you to those who have already volunteered.

2009 – SOME OF NARA’S ACHIEVEMENTS:

• Artificial turf and 2nd shade sail installed – a new play space and learning area for our children.
• Proposal to City of Monash for extension and upgrade of facilities in 2010/2011 approved.
• Upgrade of website and introduction of email communications.
  

NEW 2010 NARA COMMITTEE:

President:  Kate Bristow

Vice President:  Claire Morrissy

Secretary:  Gabrielle Mattille

Treasurer:  David Phillips

Communications Officer:  Kathie Halliday

IT Officer:  Colin Entwistle

Enrolment Officers:  Caroline Thorburn (3yo), Belinda Ting (4yo)

Assistant Treasurers:  Kerry Braun (3yo), Rosa Phillips (4yo)

Maintenance Officers:  Sue Campbell, Wayne Campbell

OH&S Officer:  Christine O’Rourke

Purchasing Officer:  Caroline Aldred

Fundraising Officers:  Clare Dorrington, Claire McAveney, Jenny Rallis, Roslyn Walton

General Committee:  Kelly Vimpani, Michele Jays, Eddie Stopajnik

Thank you to those who have volunteered for our 2010 Pre-school Committee, and also those who have been on Committee previously.   All kindergartens heavily rely on volunteer management.  Nara pre-school truly requires and appreciates all of the extra work our parent volunteers complete.

RETIRING COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

We farewell and fondly thank the following Nara Committee members.

John Harrington – 2009 President
Cameron Incoll – IT Officer and 2006 President – 5 years on committee
Carolyn Heil – Enrolment Officer – 4 years on committee
Maria Tod – Enrolment Officer – Maria and Jim Tod combined – 5 years on committee
Emily Hobson – Fundraising – 3 years on committee
Melissa Eilers – Fundraising – 2 years on committee
Donna Payton – Fundraising – 2 years on committee
Clinton Hair – Maintenance Officer
Jenny Girolami – General Committee – 2 years on committee
Kellie Stanton – OH&S Officer – 2 years on committee
Tora Quah – Assistant Treasurer (4yo)

Again – thank you all.  Your skills and input will be missed!

FUNDRAISING UPDATE:

• CHRISTMAS CARDS:
  Packets of Christmas Cards are available in the foyer for 50cents.  All proceeds go to Nara.
• PICTURE PLATES:
  We will receive these later this term.  Thank you to those who ordered plates.

STOP PRESS! – Bunning’s has just offered us ANOTHER BBQ DATE on Saturday February 14, 2010 – yes Valentine’s Day!  We needed to accept this, as dates at Bunning’s can be difficult to come by – each date raises over $1,000!  So – please try to help out on this Valentine’s Day – all helpers gratefully welcomed.  Perhaps we should give everyone who helps on Valentine’s Day a flower?  We already have one loving couple volunteering to cook sausages together!  If you can help, please send an email to news@narapreschool.org.au or phone or text Melissa on 0411 270 123.

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

Enrolment queries for 2010?

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer - Belinda Ting – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Caroline Thorburn – 0410 043 713

PHOTO FUNDRAISER – MARYSVILLE KINDER BUSHFIRE RELIEF:

Our photo fundraiser for Marysville Kindergarten has made about $200.  Late orders being taken now.  Photos are $1 each.  Enlargements of photos are also available at very reasonable prices.  Thank you for supporting this important fundraiser.  Thank you to Melissa for organising this activity – apparently some children loved having their photo taken, and others were a little camera shy!

CHRISTMAS HELP FOR THE NEEDY:

best chance invites families to donate groceries, Christmas items, etc to their Wishing Tree appeal.  There is a box in the Nara foyer for donations.  Thank you.

THANK YOU NARA STAFF:

We are privileged at Nara to have two dedicated teachers and three wonderful assistants who provide a great kindergarten learning experience for our children.

Thank you Vanessa, Cheryl, Leanne, Louise and Sarah.   We do notice all the extra hours and effort you apply to your jobs, and appreciate the benefits for our children.

Well done and thank you,

From Nara Committee 2009 and on behalf of all Nara Parents.

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

The children are working hard preparing for our concert next Thursday on the 3rd Dec.  We are learning the words, the movement and doing very well indeed!

As well as that we are also working hard on our gifts to our families and of course preparation for our final party!  Thank you to our helpers who have been thrown into our many activities and have been giving us a huge helping hand.

Don’t forget to check our Nara dates calendar.  Monday December 14 is Green Group final session and clean up day.

Regards,

Cheryl and Leanne

RED AND BLUE GROUPS (4YO) NEWS:

As we head towards Christmas there are lots of special dates coming up (see the key dates list).

A notice for each group will be placed in the foyer for you to fill in what food your child will be bringing to our last day Children’s Party.  The children have been working hard practising for the end of year Concerts.  We hope that you will be able to attend to see your child.

Clean up days involve a thorough clean of all the toys.  Please parents can you all make an effort to come and help.  Many hands make light work.  If you can’t make it on the day, please can you take home a construction set to wash and dry?  See any staff member for a box.

We are really proud of how much the children have progressed this year – they have grown up so much.  As our now “school ready” children leave Nara to go to school, we will miss them very much.

Thank you for choosing Nara.  Farewell and good luck to the children.  Also thank you parents for your assistance throughout the year.

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

NEWS FEEDBACK:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our news?  Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie Halliday know by email (news@narapreschool.org.au), in person, or via Vanessa or Cheryl or a member the Nara Committee.   All suggestions and input gratefully received!

October/November News

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING:

Please note down the time and date of this year’s AGM – Tuesday November 17 at 7:30pm.

Nominations are sought for our 2010 Committee by Friday November 6.  At the completion of the AGM, session places for 2009 will be confirmed for those in attendance.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT:

Our kindergarten is run by volunteers and parent involvement.  Parent assistance and fundraising is integral to the success and quality of Nara Preschool.

It is expected that ALL PARENTS HELP OUT AT LEAST ONE OR TWO TIMES EACH YEAR with activities such as Bunnings BBQs, Family Days or Working Bees.  Or, perhaps you can help out by being on the Preschool’s Committee.

Unfortunately, it is often the case that some families do more than their share, whilst others do not contribute at all.  Helping out makes a vital difference to the quality of Nara Preschool, ensures we are a community and sets a great example to our children.

Nara needs ALL PARENTS to step up, and “do their bit” for the kindergarten.

BUNNING’S BBQ – SATURDAY DECEMBER 12^th:

We require helpers for our Bunning’s BBQ in December.   It’s a busy time of year, so we are asking parents to volunteer ASAP, so that we can have a really successful fundraising BBQ for the end of year.  Please mark this date in your diary and write your name on the roster urgently!

THANK YOU:

• LION’S CLUB MOUNT WAVERLEY
  A big thank you for donating the cost of our bus for the Green Group’s Cranbourne Botanical Garden’s Excursion this month.  What a generous, community minded group!
• JASON ZHU’S FAMILY
  The family of one of our four year old pupils, has donated $200 of goods from their homewares shop – Mountain Gate Essential Homewares.  We were able to purchase indoor and outdoor play equipment as well as kitchen supplies.  Thank you so much.
• ANNA MAKIN
  Although not a current Committee Member, Scout’s mum – Anna has assisted our committee by putting together a much needed Health and Safety Manual for Nara Preschool.  This was a time consuming job, and is much appreciated.  Thank you.
• TANBARK WORKING BEE
  Thank you to Vanessa, the eight parents and various children who renewed our tanbark (which was very compacted) by aerating it.  Two hours of hard work lead to a much safer play surface.

TRANSITION REPORTS FOR 4YO STUDENTS:

Vanessa is in the process of preparing Transition Reports for each four year old student.

By now parents of 4yo pupils should have received some general information, as well as a form for each pupil, for parents to complete and return to Vanessa.  Please return these forms as soon as possible.

If you have not yet received this information, please let Vanessa know urgently.

FUNDRAISING UPDATE:

• MANGO DRIVE:
  Watch out for your Mango Fundraiser Form this week!  Here’s a great recipe to try when your mangos arrive.

Mango Chicken Salad
On a large platter, place some mixed lettuce leaves.  Lightly steam some asparagus and sugar snap peas or snow peas until they are still a little crunchy.  Place these in clumps on the edge of the platter.  Sprinkle lightly with some olive oil and balsamic vinegar.  Pull apart a BBQ chicken to obtain the meat and slice or have in small segments or slice some cooked chicken breasts.  Pile over lettuce leaves in centre of the platter.  Top with chopped mango and scatter with either cashew nuts or macadamia.  Enjoy!

• CHRISTMAS CARDS:
  Packets of Christmas Cards are available in the foyer for 50cents.  All proceeds go to Nara.
• PICTURE PLATES:
  We will receive these later this term.  Thank you to those who ordered plates.
• TEA TOWELS:
  Thank you to those who have purchased Tea Towels.  These have now been delivered.

SUN HATS:

Don’t forget your child’s broad-brimmed or legionnaire style hat that shades the head, face, neck and ears.   Why not keep a sun hat permanently in your child’s backpack?

LOST PROPERTY:

Lost something?  Don’t forget to check the shelf in the foyer for lost property – particularly drink bottles.

FRESH GARDEN VEGETABLES:

Keep an eye out for bunches of garden greens fresh from our kindergarten garden.  Available in the foyer from time to time for 50 cents, they’re delicious!

PHOTO FUNDRAISER:

This fundraiser for Marysville Kindergarten is progressing well.  If you haven’t already viewed and ordered photos, please look through the photo albums in the foyer and place an order as soon as possible.  Photos are $1 each.  Enlargements of photos are also available at very reasonable prices.

NEW CHILD CAR SEAT LAWS:

Effective from November 9, 2009 there are new child car restraint law in place.  Some of the changes include:

• Children between six months and under four years must use an approved, properly fastened and adjusted rearward facing child restraint OR a forward facing restraint
• Children aged between 4 years and under 7 years must use an approved, properly fastened and adjusted  forward facing restraint or an approved booster seat which is properly positioned and fastened.
• If a car has two or more rows of seats, then children under 7 years must not travel in the front seat.
• If all seats, other than the front seats, are being used by children under 7 years, children aged between four and six years (inclusive) may travel in the front seat, provided they use an approved restraint or booster that is properly fitted.

For a comprehensive explanation of the new laws, please go to:

http://www.racv.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/Internet/Primary/road+safety/child+safety/child+restraints/the+law+and+standards+on+child+restraints/

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

We ended last term with a successful Father’s Night where we saw 18 Dads enjoy sharing some activities with their child.  We’re not sure whether father or child had a better time! Some wonderful creations emerged as Dads put their skills to use, and a momento of father and child handprints were made.  The night ended with the children presenting their special original creations to their dads.

The drama workshop was excellent as Sarah took the children on a journey in search of a lost spider. All the children were engaged and participated in the story.  At the end of it the children were given a moment to put their thoughts onto paper and a book was created.

This term will be a busy term for us as we finish off the year. We will be going on our exciting excursion to the Botanical gardens later this month.  Thank you to the Lions Club of Mt Waverley for paying for the charter of the bus to and from there, and big thank you to Melissa for organising it for us.  Also thank you to Blue Group for swapping a session with us so that we can spend a day at the Gardens.

We have started the term with some new activities while maintaining some familiar ones.  We will try dropper painting where the children can practise their fine motor control in controlling the dropper and amount of paint which they release.  As well as this they will learn about colour mixing as they see what happens when colours are mixed on the blotting paper.

Outdoors we will continue to work on our climbing skills, extending to the scramble net for those who are ready to tackle it.  We will also extend our block building skills to the outside and introduce some pipes and other materials to the outdoor blocks.

Regards,

Cheryl and Leanne

RED AND BLUE GROUPS (4YO) NEWS:

The music incursion was a big success.  The children enjoyed the new songs they have learnt.  They have already asked at group time for particular ones they liked.

In the last week of term at kinder we had a dress as your team sport day.  We made some cheering implements with tubes and crepe paper.  We also spent a lot of the session kicking the football around and cheering on our team.

The children have continued to play the different board games and dice games throughout the sessions.  They are also adapting the rules and making up different rules for the games, still building onto the skills they have already learnt.  They are also enjoying different sequencing and matching games – some of these have pictures and some with different shapes on them.

Many of the children have been enjoying the trapeze outside, gaining the ability to get themselves up and make it swing.  Also outside the children have taken out the snail game and each child had a coloured snail and moved themselves across the yard as another child rolled the dice and called out the colour.

Some of the children helped Gabby pick the lettuce. The leaves were then bunched up and sold for 50 cents. Making us about $6, we will continue to sell some of the produce we grow as well as eating them.

First week of term we had a fantastic visit from Wild Action – Under the Sea.  The children enjoyed the variety of creatures, and all had a turn holding a creature.  We invite parents to look at the photos taken – which show how much fun and excitement the children had.

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

NEWS FEEDBACK:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our news blog?  Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie Halliday know by email – news@narapreschool.org.au , in person, or via Vanessa or Cheryl or a member the Nara Committee.   All suggestions and input gratefully received!

September News

BUNNING’S BBQ – SEPTEMBER 12:

We URGENTLY require three extra helpers this weekend for our Bunning’s BBQ. These BBQs are a great source of fundraising dollars for the kinder, and only require your time (rather than money). Please put your name on the roster urgently or contact Melissa (Ph: 0411 270 123) if you can help. If you are unable to help with the BBQ – we would still love you and your family to drop in for a sausage, and to say hello.

SUNSMART:

Nara Preschool is Sunsmart, and it’s that time of year again.

· Children must bring a broad-brimmed or legionnaire style hat that shades the head, face, neck and ears. (Nara Preschool hats are available for purchase upon request).

· Children should wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible (PLEASE – no singlet tops).

· Before (or when) arriving at Preschool, parents should ensure children have 30+ sunscreen applied. During long (6 hour) sessions, staff will ensure sunscreen is reapplied after three hours (ie. at about 12:15pm for sessions beginning at 9:15am).

· Children are encouraged to seek shade on sunny days.

UV levels in Victoria are on the rise again so from September it’s time to grab your sun protection gear and do the SunSmart Countdown. Whenever UV levels reach 3 and above, sun protection is needed because that is when the sun can start to damage skin and eyes and lead to skin cancer.

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

Enrolment queries for 2010?

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Maria Tod – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Carolyn Heil – 0410 043 713

TERM 4 FEES:

Term 4 fees are due by Friday September 18 (the final day of Term 3). Again our preferred payment option is internet direct debit. Cheque payment is also available. Although payment may be made by cash – we very STRONGLY DISCOURAGE this, as it poses security risks for the kinder.

Details for electronic payment are as follows:

PARENT SURVEYS:

Thank you to the 49% of families that completed our 2009 Nara Pre-School Parent Survey. Below is some information about the feedback received.

Key points:

· Very similar results to 2007 survey.

· Overall, the strong majority are satisfied with Nara.

Individual categories of responses:

• Facilities – overall 97% of the reponses to questions about aspects of the facilities were positive.
• Communication – overall 90% of the reponses to questions about aspects of communication were positive.
• Educational program – overall 99% of the reponses to questions about aspects of the educational program were positive.
• Parent Involvement – overall 90% of the reponses to questions about aspects of parental involvement were positive.

Comments made on the surveys are very helpful, and brought up some useful points which are being followed up, such as:

· ENTRANCE LOBBY: A very frequent comment recorded was that the Nara entrance lobby is too small and gets crowded. We all agree! There are plans afoot to renovate Nara, and the entrance/exit is a key area that is under review.

· FORMAL FEEDBACK FOR PARENTS: A small group of respondents indicated that they would like more formal feedback on the progress of their child. Please be aware that both Vanessa and Cheryl are happy to make appointments with parents who request them. (This has been the case all year, but we now realise that not all parents are aware of this.) The teachers will proactively contact a parent if they have any major concerns about a child. Also, as you may know, the government has introduced a requirement for teachers of 4yo kinder to produce a standardised report towards the end of each year, aimed at providing information for the prep class.

· COMMUNICATION: The committee continues to try and keep some communication going out to parents with these regular newsletters, and fundraising activities, and special events such as the disco. As a result of comments made in the survey, we have now put up a list of the committee members and contacts in the lobby, to help make sure we are more accessible to parents.

Thank you. Parent feedback and suggestions are always welcome!

POLICY FOR REVIEW:

bestchance are inviting any interested parents from kindergartens within their cluster group to view and provide feedback on their updated draft Behaviour Guidance Policy. Please see Cheryl or Vanessa to obtain a copy of the draft policy. Parents have until the end of Term 3 (September 18) to provide feedback.

PARENT EVENING:

“HOW TO TALK SO KIDS WILL LISTEN AND LISTEN SO KIDS WILL TALK”

• Helping children deal with their feelings;
• Inviting cooperation so parents and children feel good about themselves;
• Positive alternatives to punishment that enable you to express disapproval and children to assume responsibility for their behavior;

· Building children’s strengths and self-reliance.

Chris Daicos is an experienced and highly regarded Educational and Parenting Consultant. This parent information night is hosted by bestchance on Thursday October 15, 2009.

When: Thursday October 15, 7:15pm – 9pm (7:30pm start)

Where: bestchance Children’s Centre, 583 Ferntree Gully Road, Glen Waverley

Cost: $12 (Parking on site)

How: Contact Vanessa, Cheryl or Nara Committee ASAP (preferably by September 14). Forward your payment to Nara Pre-school.

FUNDRAISING UPDATE:

DISCO:
Thank you for to all those who helped out with and attended our ‘Touch of Sparkle’ Disco Night. A wonderful night of fun was had by all.

TEA TOWELS:
Orders have closed and are due for delivery next Term. Thank you to those who have purchased Tea Towels.

PICTURE PLATES:
Please submit your child’s drawing along with payment as soon as possible – orders close Thursday September 10 (no late orders can be accepted, as plates take up to 12 weeks to be delivered). If you require another template for your child to complete, these are available on the shelf under the Sign?In Book. These plates are loved by the children, and make great memorabilia and Christmas presents.

THANK YOU:

We wish to thank and support the following organisations for their assistance:

· BRUMBY’S BAKERY MOUNT WAVERLEY
Who continually support us through donations of bread – the most recent being the hotdog rolls for the Disco. Thank you Andrew and Jay.

· WAVERLEY CINEMAS (PINEWOOD)
Through their fundraising website we have already received Four Double Passes which we were able to use as prizes at our Disco Night. Thank you to those who register daily for our Nara Pre-school Fundraiser. It takes less than 30 seconds to register. We encourage all parents to save this address in their favourites and register daily? http://waverleycinema.com/program/club0035.php

BUSHFIRE SUPPORT:

Sadly, three kindergartens were destroyed due to the bushfires this year – Kinglake, Flowerdale and Marysville. Two of these kindergartens (Kinglake and Flowerdale) reopened at the beginning of this term.

Nara preschool has decided to support Marysville Preschool, who are taking a little longer to reopen. $250 of Carnival Club points will be passed on for purchase of books. Also funds raised from our special photographs of children will also be passed onto Marysville Preschool.

Only 12 homes in Marysville were not burnt down, and the cost to the community on all fronts has been devastating. As most of us put this disaster behind us, now is a time when more than ever when support and assistance are required. Nara Pre-School community can be proud of our support to date, and prouder once we review (and also hopefully purchase) the wonderful photos taken of our children.

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

It has been an extremely busy month for Green group. We welcome Pete back from his holiday in Greece – back looking relaxed and very tanned! He has settled back in beautifully.

Our Grandparents and Special Friends week went very well with many visitors visiting over the two days. The children made scones for our guests and were very excited to show their special guests around and spend time with them.

We introduced a sensory table where we had goop under plastic – the idea being to squish and move the goop around creating patterns and just enjoying the feel. The children enjoy this experience as well as our parents on duty! The children are enjoying the many play spaces available, sometimes working alone and sometimes with one or two other friends.

Our Salesian College helpers finished off with us and we made some pizzas on their last day as a special treat. It was a wonderful experience having them here.

The last weeks of term are extremely busy for us. We (the Coady family) became new parents to two little black lambs who visited the kinder on Thursday the 3^rd of September.

The children have been busy making their father’s day gifts which will have been revealed before this newsletter. One child described the item to her Mum as “it’s something we twist and has beads and we squish it to fit in his pocket” (Answer in the next issue!). Our fathers joined us on Thursday the 3^rd of September for dinner and then some activities with the children.

I have organised an incursion with Telling Tales. I attended a workshop by Sarah who runs drama workshops and was very impressed with her. She writes a story with the children and then takes them along the journey with her. I am very excited to see her work with the children.

An expression of interest for an excursion to Cranbourne Botanical Gardens has been sent out with the majority supporting the idea. However we have come across a slight bump so we are reworking the idea. We hope to still go ahead with this excursion.

Regards,

Cheryl and Leanne

RED AND BLUE GROUPS (4YO) NEWS:

What a busy couple of months and another about to arrive. Thank you to all the parents who have been bringing back all those forms and coping with the little hiccups along the way. The computer letters are slowly coming along and you are all responding to them. If you are not on line as yet it may be something to think about.

The children have been busy with the father’s night and the disco. Both of these were very successful and all the children who attended had a fantastic time. The parents also seemed to get into the swing of it and were quite involved.

We would like to welcome Ada who is volunteering with us every Wednesday. She is a teacher from China who is studying her masters in early childhood and wants to see how kindergartens work in Australia. She has been with us for two weeks so far, and has been sharing her knowledge and skills.

The children enjoyed the police visit last week, especially the police car and siren. Thank you to Caroline from Glen Waverley Police for her time and the information shared.

The children been really interested in the big dice and have created many games using them. We have been putting out different types of counting and number games to extend this interest. Some children are adding the numbers of the two dice together, some children are collecting objects that match the numbers they are rolling and they are helping each other count the dots together.

The children have also been fairies, firemen, office workers, Doctors and some children made a restaurant during their dramatic play time. They have continued to build onto their skills at the insects/ light table, the penguins and the snakes/lizard experiences. They have been drawing pasting and painting many different pieces and lots of children are experimenting with letters and writing words that interest them e.g. their name and their friend’s names. We have also been putting out big floor puzzles that the children have been working on in small groups to complete.

We have also had some parents come and share their skills with the children. Thank you to them. One parent read a story in another language and the other showed the children some of the things Doctors do. If there is anyone else interested in sharing their skills please let me know as the children really enjoyed these times.

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

OLD GLASSES/SPECTACLES:

Many people in the world have poor healthcare, along with eyesight problems and no funds for glasses. Lion’s Club collect glasses for distribution to those in poorer countries. Used glasses may be dropped off to Ian and Denise at Mount Waverley Visioncare – 75 Hamilton Place, Mount Waverley. Also – used glasses may be dropped at Nara Pre-school until the end of October.

MONASH CHILDREN’S SOUTHERN HEALTH:

Monash Medical Centre Clayton is the only designated tertiary paediatric service in Victoria. Together with children’s wards at Dandenong and Casey Hospitals Monash Medical forms the second largest children’ s hospital service in Victoria, and the third largest in Australia. Phone 13KIDS (13  5437) or www.monashchildrens.org.au to contact Monash Children’s Southern Health.

NEWSLETTER FEEDBACK:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our newsletter? Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie Halliday know by email (news@narapreschool.org.au), in person, or via Vanessa or Cheryl or a member the Nara Committee. All suggestions and input gratefully received!

Newsletter items are also posted on our website: www.narapreschool.org.au

COMMUNICATING WITH E-MAIL @NARA:

54% of our families are now receiving Nara Newsletters via e-mail!

If you would like to receive newsletters and other communications by e-mail, please return the slip below. Thank you.

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July/August News

PARENT SURVEYS:

Thank you to all the parents who took the time to complete and return the 2009 Parent Surveys. The Committee and Staff are currently reviewing the results. We will provide information about the results in our next newsletter.

PHOTOS:

This week Schoolpix are taking photos of our Nara children. Proofs will be available for viewing and purchase within the next month.

COMMITTEE LISTING:

A listing of Committee Members has been placed in the foyer. We hope to include contact details and a lovely photo (aka “mugshot”) of each of us on the wall shortly. We hope this will assist parents in being able to contact us.

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

In line with the Central Enrolments Timetable set by the City of Monash, 4yo offers for 2010 were posted out by Nara in the first week of Term. Letters regarding 3yo offers for 2010 are due be sent end of July.

To ensure a place, secure the session times wanted (for 4yo) and assist with planning for 2010, it is important to confirm your child’s place as soon as possible, or to let us know if you will not be requiring a place for 2010.

Enrolment queries:

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Maria Tod – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Carolyn Heil – 0410 043 713

2010 FEES:

Nara is in the process of setting fees for 2010. All kindergartens in Victoria are currently waiting for the Government to release details of subsidies to offset increased staff costs under the new Kindergarten Multi-Employer Certified Agreement. We will provide updated fee information to parents as soon as possible.

“GO FOR YOUR LIFE” PROGRAM:

You may have noticed some posters and pamphlets regarding the “Go for your life” program at Nara. In particular we are promoting healthy eating options for our Nara children. Some keys points include:

• Drinking mainly water. Limit sweet drinks to a small glass less that 1 to 2 times per week.
• Limit food and drinks high in fat, salt and sugar. These foods should be promoted as “Sometimes” foods.
• Eat Vegetables and Fruit everyday. Keep offering vegetables and fruit even if you child avoids eating them.

Further information and tips are available on the web at www.goforyourlife.vic.gov.au/kids

FUNDRAISING UPDATE:

Following our successful Chocolate Drive, we head into Term 3 with Picture Plates, Tea Towels, a Disco Night, Bunnings BBQ and Toy Catalogue planned.

The Picture Plates and Tea Towels are great memorabilia, and are a good opportunity to get ahead with Christmas shopping for Grandmas, aunties and others. The Disco Night – sheer fun! Bunnings BBQ – September 12 – pop the date in your diary now and add your name to the roster at the kinder – the more parents who help, the more fun and easier for all. The Educational Experience Toy Catalogue earns equipment for the kindergarten, and provides an easy, convenient way for parents to purchase some great items for Christmas.

WAVERLEY CINEMAS FUNDRAISER:

http://waverleycinema.com/program/club0035.php
Save this address to your favourites and register daily if possible. This takes less than a minute, earns Nara Pre-School rewards, and also can earn spot prizes for those registering. As well earning points toward a cash reward for the kindergarten, every 100 “hits” Nara receives a double pass to the movies! These passes will be used for children and their families, as prizes at our social and fundraising events.

BUSHFIRE SUPPORT:

Our “Ace” photographer has taken over 400 photographs of Nara children, and is currently preparing the best photos for parents to review. Photos will be available for review and purchase shortly.

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

The children are all developing well and we can see how different they are to when we first met them at the start of the year.  One of the most important things we learn this year is to exist within a space with others ………sharing, playing with and being part of a group.

This term we introduced more music and movement. The children do enjoy this part of the program. We are also trying our hand at games, starting with dominos. With this we learn as well as how to play the game, turn taking and some are even using strategy.

The children enjoyed the excursion to Link Educational Supplies even though it was a long walk! Thank you to the parents who helped us on this excursion – we couldn’t have done it without you. As Link did not charge us anything for this, please consider supporting Link the next time you are after some school supplies or books.

A Fathers Day Night is scheduled for Thursday September 3. More information will be sent out closer to the date.

We are considering a social event for Green Group this Term where families can come together with the staff in a relaxing setting. If you have any ideas, please let us know! We feel it is important for families to get to know each other including those who with commitments on weekdays, so we are thinking of planning a weekend event.

Regards,

Cheryl and Leanne

RED AND BLUE GROUPS (4YO) NEWS:

Some of the recent activities and interests of the children have included being police, using dolls, hanging out the washing, digging, watering and planting our plants, making banana muffins, using candles in magic painting, mixing water colours and making books. Our pasting table continues to be busy, along with matching and colour games.

We have been talking about stories. For instance, a group of children were telling the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, whilst we drew pictures on the easel. Together we worked out the order of the story.

Red Group enjoyed their excursion to Sussex Heights Primary. The children participated in the same activities as Blue Group.

Thank you to the two parents who helped cleanout and organise the kitchen.

We have noticed many of you reading your child’s portfolios. You are most welcome to take your child’s portfolio home to share within your family and return the following session. You and your child are also welcome to add a page to the portfolio to share with us at Nara if you wish.

As mentioned in our recent Four Year Old Newsletter, parents are invited to organise a time to discuss their child’s progress, should they wish. Times I am generally available are 3:30pm-4:30pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, Monday 9am-11am or Thursday 2:30-4:30pm. Later times can also be arranged if required.

We are having a fathers (special persons night) in August – Tuesday August 18 for Blue Group and Wednesday August 19 for Red Group, from 6:30pm-7:30pm. Please come and join your child, experience the enjoyment they have at kinder and meet their friends.

Regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

NEWSLETTER FEEDBACK:

Do you have any suggestions or feedback for our newsletter? Perhaps an article you would like included, or some further information or a question on a topic mentioned?

Please let Kathie Halliday know by email (news@narapreschool.org.au), in person, or via Vanessa or Cheryl. All suggestions and input gratefully received!

June News

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

We remind you that kindergarten enrolments for both three and four year old kindergarten for 2010 and beyond must be lodged directly with the City of Monash. The cut-off date for first round applications for 2010 is June 30, 2009. Forms are available from Nara, or by contacting the City of Monash.

As per the timetable set by the City of Monash, first round of enrolment offers for 2010 will be processed during July, with letters regarding 4yo offers sent mid July, and letters regarding 3yo offers sent end of July.

Enrolment queries:

4 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Maria Tod – 0410 043 721

3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Carolyn Heil – 0410 043 713

COLD AND FLU SEASON:

We are reminded that the winter flu and colds season is now upon us, and helping our children to remember their good hygiene habits is very helpful in a kindergarten environment. We can all teach our children to cover their mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze, and to remember to wash their hands with soap at all the right moments. With the current cases of H1N1 Influenza (Human Swine Flu) in Victoria, these precautions are even more important.

A reminder to all parents, that if our children have a raised temperature or are feeling unwell, then they need to be at home. Also, if a child has had vomiting or diarrhoea then they should not attend kindergarten for 48 hours. At Nara, we encourage our children to share most things – but not germs!

HATS AND COATS:

As the weather gets colder, please be sure to pack jumpers, coats, beanies, etc, so that your child can remove and add clothing as he/she moves between indoors and outdoors.

WAVERLEY CINEMA NO-COST FUNDRAISING IDEA!

Don’t forget to support Nara Pre-School through this fundraiser. Save this address to your favourites and register as many times as possible (although no more than daily). This takes less than a minute, is very easy as well as free, earns Nara Pre-School rewards, and also earns spot prizes for those registering. http://waverleycinema.com/program/club0035.php Thank you to those who are already registering daily.

FEES FOR TERM 3:

Term three fees are due by Friday June 26 (the final day of Term 2). Again our preferred payment option is internet direct debit. Cheque payment is also available. Although payment may be made by cash – we very STRONGLY DISCOURAGE this, as it poses security risks for the kinder.

Details for electronic payment are as follows:

Account Name: Nara Pre School Association Inc.
Bank Account Number: 00900501
BSB Number: 063 151
Description: Child’s Name Term X ? You must include a description

NARA WEBSITE:

Don’t forget to save our Nara Website in your favourites on your computer. It’s a quick, easy way of checking important dates and news items, without the paper clutter.

Our web address is: www.narapreschool.org.au

FUNDRAISING UPDATE:

Thank you for supporting our fundraising efforts. It allows Nara to purchase extra toys, equipment and teaching resources.

The Monash Community Raffle is drawn this week – let’s hope someone from Nara is a winner! We have raised over $500 from this raffle.

The Chocolate and Lolly Drive is going very well. We are still waiting for some families to return their money or chocolates and lollies. If you wish to purchase more chocolates, the teachers have some available for sale.

BUSHFIRE SUPPORT:

We have two projects supporting the bushfire appeal.

1.  Through purchases made by families from Carnival Club we now have $250 in reward points to donate to one of the kindergartens destroyed by the fires.

2.  Our photo fundraiser is well underway now, and parents will be able to view photos of their children shortly.

PARENT LIBRARY:

Did you know that Nara Pre-School has a library of information books for parents. Parents are invited to view and borrow these books. The library is in the cupboard in the foyer. There is a borrowing form on the cupboard door.

NEW ROAD SAFETY LAWS:

We all know how hard it is sometimes to persuade a reluctant pre-schooler into their safety seat, and how tempting it is to just ‘forget it’ for a short trip into kindergarten. But please remember that most accidents do actually occur close to home, and children’s small bodies are so vulnerable.

There are new child restraint laws approved which will become law on November 9. These laws state (amongst other things) that all babies under 6 months must be in a rearward facing restraint, children under 4 years must be in a proper 5 point restraint child seat, and children aged 4 – 7 years must be in a booster seat. Many 4 year olds still fit into their child seat, and should stay in this as long as they fit properly. The safest booster seats have a design that keeps the lap belt down low across the child’s hips (called an anti-sub device), and the seat is itself attached to a restraint point. And it’s even better to use a harness, too.

There is more information available on the RACV website, or for the facts from two sets of parents try www.belletoni.org.au . (but keep a hanky handy…).

Let’s keep all our beautiful Nara kids safe and well!

FUTURE BUILDING WORK:

Following correspondence with the City of Monash, it appears likely that the council will be able to fund an extension and refurbishment of Nara Pre-School in 2010/11. The proposed building work would allow us flexibility in the future and greatly improve our facilities. Given the free space beside the kindergarten, works could take place with very little disruption. This is very exciting for the pre?school. Imagine having easier access for prams, less congestion, more space… etc.

GREEN GROUP (3YO) NEWS:

Indoors the children have been working a lot on cutting. Many are just starting to hold the scissors correctly and practice manipulating it to cut. Their intense concentration is clear on their faces as they work hard cutting paper into little pieces. I have also introduced small paper punches. The children are working hard on these, it takes a lot of finger strength to punch out the shape. This activity is excellent for strengthening their finger strength.

We are also doing painting using fine brushes and paint blocks. Most of the children grasped the concept quickly – we need to remember to clean the brush properly before we change colours and also not to have the brush too wet or it will leave a pool of water in the paint block.

The children are enjoying music time, incorporating more movement and the use of instruments. The children enjoy the music sessions and we are getting better at making circles quickly and also moving around in a circle!

Outdoors, the children continue to practice their climbing skills. We have also been doing some simple ball activities – kicking to each other and a bit of footy.

We look forward to our story time excursion to Link Educational Supplies this week.

Regards,

Cheryl and Leanne

Blue Group went on an excursion to Sussex Heights Primary School, they had a fabulous time. Activities included indoor and outdoor play, computers, art and a story. On the walk back we found numbers on the letter boxes we talked about crossing the road safely and counted different objects e.g. one group counted fire hydrants. Red group will be attending Sussex Heights Primary School on the17th June.

The children have been extremely busy making and playing mini golf with a variety of materials both inside and outside. They have been rolling balls through the tubes, around and over blocks and through tunnels. The children have also been using cars and trucks. They have been painting with them on the easels and down the ramp. They have used the big blocks around the steering wheel adding tyres and many other objects. The mobilo has been made into trucks and cars being used in varying places around the yard especially in the sandpit.

Inside the children have been busy drawing and making books. Pasting has been busy as usual, many creations being developed. Painting both on the easels and at the small table using small brushes, sticks and cotton buds has also been used frequently. The children have been threading with cards and coloured shapes, we are going to change the threading to take home pieces. Head phones with songs and stories are proving to be popular.

Library has been going for a few weeks and the children are enjoying the books or story bags they are taking home.

The friend book is popular. Many of the children have had their turn of taking it home to share photos of their friends with the parents. All of the children have been drawing pictures of their friends for the book.

Last week of term we will be having sausage sizzle lunches for parents and children. You will receive an invitation shortly. We hope you can attend.

Also next term, we are planning a father’s night sometime in August. More information to follow.

Kind regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah

OPEN DAY:

Our Open Day on May 23rd was well attended. Thank you to everyone who helped make this such a successful day.

COMMUNICATING WITH E-MAIL @NARA:

We were thinking that it would be convenient and easy, if most of Nara Pre-School communications could be sent to parents by e-mail, reducing paper clutter and saving time and money. During Term 3 we will start using e-mail for newsletters, notices and teacher communication.

May News

PARENT EVENING WITH BRENDAN O’HARA:

Thank you to those who attended our free parent evening with Brendan O’Hara on Thursday April 30.  By all accounts it was a terrific evening and complimented the incursions the children had last week with Brendan.

PARENT EVENING – SCHOOL READINESS:

This free session on Wednesday May 6, 7:00pm will explore the strategies used by kindergarten teachers, school teachers and parents to support children’s transition to school.   Presented by Marg McLeish, Training Co-ordinator – Kindergarten Parents Victoria and Ingrid Noblett, Prep Co-ordinator – Mt Waverley Primary School, it promises to be a very informative evening.

Please be sure to add your name to the list and come along.

URGENT REMINDER – MONASH COMMUNITY RAFFLE:

Money and details for sold tickets and also any unsold tickets were due to be returned by Friday April 24. 

If you have not yet returned your money and sold or unsold tickets please would you return these urgently?

All tickets must be accounted for!

FEES FOR TERM 2:

Thank you to everyone who has already forwarded fees for term 2 by the due date – Friday April 3.  If you have not yet paid Term 2 fees for your child, please would you forward fees urgently? 

Again our preferred payment option is internet direct debit.  Cheque payment is also available.  Although payment may be made by cash – we very STRONGLY DISCOURAGE this, as it poses security risks for the kinder. 

Details for electronic payment are as follows:

Account Name:                          Nara Pre School Association Inc.
Bank Account Number:           00900501
BSB Number:                               063 151
Description:                                 Child’s Name Term X    ? You must include a description

HATS AND SUNSCREEN:

Now that we are in May and the colder weather is arriving, children are not required to wear sunhats and sunscreen.

As the weather gets colder, please be sure to pack jumpers, coats, beanies, etc, so that your child can remove and add clothing as he/she moves between indoors and outdoors.

FUNDRAISING UPDATE:

Thank you for your support with our Easter Family Day – what a fun day for our children and ourselves!

In Term 2 we are:

1. Finalising Monash Community Raffle.  (Don’t forget to return your money/tickets urgently).
2. Having our Annual Cadbury Chocolate Drive – Tuesday May 5 onwards.

Your support of our kinder is so important.  For instance, consider our new turf and shade sail and the extra play space provided – all from our fundraising dollars.

Thank you.

MAINTENANCE UPDATE:

Thank you to those who attended our working bee Saturday March 14.  Despite the torrential rain, we completed all our jobs.  The new turf could then be laid a few days later.

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS:

All Nara enrolments for both 3 year old and 4 year old kindergarten are processed by the City of Monash.  4 year old enrolments should be placed by June 30, 2009.  3 year enrolments should also be placed asap.  In order to receive preferential treatment for siblings in our 3 year old program, applications for siblings of pupils who are already attending must be submitted by May 31, 2009.

Enrolment queries:

                4 Year Old Enrolment Officer - Maria Tod – 9504 2622

                3 Year Old Enrolment Officer – Carolyn Heil – 9807 6999

WAVERLEY CINEMA NO-COST FUNDRAISING IDEA!

As you are aware, Nara Pre-School depends heavily on the fundraising of our families and supporters.  The purpose of this notice is to advise you of a new online fundraiser we have commenced in co?operation with Waverley Cinemas Pinewood.  It involves no more than you and as many of your friends and family as possible visiting the Nara Pre-School fundraiser page http://waverleycinema.com/program/club0035.php as many times as possible (maximum one visit per day) and registering your support.   Add it to your ‘favourites’ and go on every day!

Your visit earns Nara Pre-School 2 cents and subsequent visits are displayed as a sign of your support for our Kinder.  At the same time as supporting Nara Pre-School, you have the opportunity to win Waverley Cinema Double Passes as well as other prizes.  The income is derived from Waverley Cinemas (and eventually more income from other local traders) in return for Nara Pre-School members being frequently exposed to the products and services of the cinema.  Every month we will publish an update advising  you of the progress of Nara Pre-School’s fundraiser and hopefully you will be enthused enough to encourage your workmates, friends, relatives etc to support our effort.  Please visit the above website page and register your initial vote of support.

We are required to have at least 5 “hits” per day, 7 days a week for us to remain on the website, so please ensure you register your name DAILY and don’t forget to pass this info to friends/family etc

Green Group (3YO) News:

It has been a busy start to the term. The children arrived back eager to get right into work again. Some familiar activities as well as some new ones have been set up.

We have a few things organised for the term. First up is our preparation for Mother’s Day. The children were excited with their creations and we had to learn about patience and secrets, since we couldn’t tell Mum straight away about what we had done! A discussion was also had in terms of what we would do for the special afternoon tea we were going to hold for our Mums. The children made suggestions and we came up with a menu for the day. We did have to remind a few that the food was not for us and to think about what Mum would enjoy eating instead of what we wanted to eat! With the menu decided, the children will also have a hand in preparing the food as well as setting up the room for the afternoon tea.

The next exciting event is our visit from Brendan who will work with us on movement and learning. We anticipate that the children will have a wonderful time with him, whilst important development is taking place.

In conjunction with Brendan’s visit, our group will be doing music and movement as part of our group times. Apart from being a fun time, the children will be enhancing their various areas of development.

We will also be looking forward to a mini-excursion later this term – details to be announced later!

Regards,

Cheryl and Leanne

Red and Blue Groups (4YO) News:

I hope everybody enjoyed the holidays.

I would like to thank the parents and staff that gave up some of their time to help tidy up the store?room.  It looks much better and hopefully we will be able to find things more easily.  Now, we will start working on the outdoor shed, boxing toys and sorting them out as well.

We have had to say goodbye to Margaret who will be greatly missed.  We welcome Louise who has settled in well and we are looking forward to the future.  Sarah is commencing lunch cover in May.

The children have been bunnies in the home corner giving out eggs and hiding them for each other to find.  They are being dogs and cats as well – a popular play experience both inside and outside.  To extend the children interests, we have been reading stories and have done some movement experiences being cats.  Extending different play ideas we have put out cat and dog figurines and Puppets.  Through discussions with the children we added bowls, blankets and food.

Over the past month the children have really enjoyed “going on a trip” using the steering wheel and chairs, creating a variety of transport machines.  So we have built onto this interest by putting out trains and trucks.  We have asked children for ideas about what they may need to use on their trips and given them props where needed.  Some children have added their own ideas as props as well. We have started to read stories on holidays, and different types of transport.

The children have been busy with paints, pasting and drawings.  We are also looking at insects. Puzzles have been popular and they are starting to play dominos which is a good game for developing recognition and matching skills.

Outside the big blocks have been used regularly, with a lot of negotiation and sharing being practiced.  We have set up the climbing in a new way, once again challenging the children and giving them a new interest in climbing.

Notices will be sent home shortly regarding our excursion this term to Sussex Heights Primary School.

Don’t forget our next parent information nights on Wednesday 6^th of May. The nights are free and many topics about child readiness and school readiness will be discussed.

Look out for our display board out the front. It will have a variety of different topics about child related issues.

Kind regards,

Vanessa, Louise and Sarah