Hazelwood Early Learning Centre

Summer Camp at Hazelwood is in full swing and the children enjoyed time spent at the river by Lion's Park last week. They discovered the water is home to fresh water crayfish and minnows!

We love a good climbing tree at Hazelwood!

The Sapling group had a special guest on the walk from the bus one afternoon. A tall heron was spotted at the duck pond, fishing for its next meal. The children watched from a distance so as not to disturb the heron.

At our temporary location, the Seedlings are continuing with our Hazelwood tradition of planting a garden. Ava's family purchased beautiful planter boxes for our garden.
The Seedlings participate in the whole process of planting; filling the boxes, choosing seeds, thinning out the Seedlings and watering the plants. We have planted vegetables to eat and wildflowers for the bees!

The school age children have been engaged in constructing large shelters in our community forest spaces. Together they gather materials to build their structure, using creativity and communication.

Spring break has the school age children out for a field trip at Castle Park playground. Together they work to complete a nature scavenger hunt while exploring the community. We hope everyone has a wonderful Easter!

Hooray for Pink Shirt Day!
The Seedlings chatted about "Why we wear pink shirts"

Because it’s pink shirt day
Because you wear pink
Girls and Boys don’t need to wear girl colours and boy colours
It’s about being kind to each other and including each other
Being kind and goes to your bitrthday and having fun
When someone hits you, you can say “Stop!”
If you accidentally bump someone you can help them up

One of the Seedling families had chatted about ‘What is a bully?”
When someone is not nice to you
When someone is mean

In a world where you can be anything, be kind.

On our recent Hazelwood Professional Development Day, Educator Sali facilitated a workshop introducing Loose Parts and why they are so important in the Early Years. Educator Nadia was inspired by the workshop, telling the story of the 'Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear' by Don Wood using pieces found in Nature.
The Seedlings were very involved helping find the pieces for the story.

Storytelling:
Every winter at Hazelwood, Educators Sali and Carrie tell the story of 'The Mitten' using props. Telling stories in different ways helps keep the children engaged and encourages participation.
As the original props were lost in the fire, Carrie gathered and created new props to give to Sali as a Christmas gift. What a thoughtful and special gift we can all share.

The Seedlings have discovered a new spot to eat lunch in the forested area on the way to Marian Kroeker park.

The recent snowfall brings joy and the chance to make frozen treats! The school age children follow the recipe for "Snowy, Blowy Icecream". Mixing together fresh snow, vanilla, milk and sugar they top it off with sprinkles and it's time to enjoy!