Lollipops New Plymouth

When all you can do is laugh 😂 stay dry out there today whānau!

If there is one thing that is universal when raising children, it’s the notion that at some stage or another in your parenting journey you will encounter some big emotions from your child!

Follow this link to our blog, Navigating Big Emotions (there's a link at the end of the blog for an awesome course from Parenting Place, with a code for 10% off!)

https://www.evolveeducation.co.nz/news/navigating-big-emotions/

*sneak peak*
A Simple Brain Model
Dr. Dan Siegel uses a hand as a visual representation of a brain.
In his model, the palm of your hand represents a brainstem. This brainstem is responsible for basic survival functions such as breathing, your heart rate and the overall feeling of safety.

If you then cross your thumb over your palm this represents the brains limbic system. The limbic system is responsible for feelings, emotions, your memories and also for your fight/flight/freeze or fawn responses.

Your fingers then represent the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain that helps us to to think, to plan and to be able to reason and stay in control.

When you fold your fingers down over your thumb this represents a brain that has all the parts connected, the limbic system is working collectively with the prefrontal cortex and there is a balance between emotion and reason.

As parents and caregivers, we know that children don’t always exist within this state though, and it can feel like they can move from emotionally regulated to dysregulated at record speed!

Using the hand model, this is described as flipping the lid. If you raise your fingers, this models a brain with the prefrontal cortex (logic and reasoning) disengaged and the limbic (emotional) system taking centre stage. Children in this state aren’t able to think clearly or reasonably and need safety, calm and connection to help their brain ‘reconnect’ again.

DON'T FORGET TO WEAR YOUR PJS FOR PYJAMA DAY TOMORROW!!!
*We've collected 12 pairs of pyjamas for the Pyjama Project so far - our aim is 20!*

Sensory play is not just about fun; it's a crucial part of early childhood education. It challenges our children and encourages them to use their senses to investigate and interact with their environment in new and creative ways. This helps them make sense of the world around them and fosters their overall development.

What is Sensory Play?
Sensory play is any activity that stimulates the senses, which include touch, sight, sound, taste, and smell. It also covers movement, balance, and spatial awareness.

Sensory play can involve various materials such as sand, water, playdough, leaves, shells, and sensory bins filled with shredded paper, birdseed, fabric scraps, ice, and much more!

It is limited only by your imagination, provided you use common sense to ensure the materials and activities suit your children's age and ability.

Benefits of Sensory Play
With sensory play, there’s always more happening than meets the eye, and there are numerous benefits for babies, toddlers, and children who engage in this type of play.

Cognitive Development: Sensory play helps children learn about cause and effect, improves problem-solving skills, and enhances memory.

Fine and Gross Motor Skills: Manipulating objects and materials in sensory play can develop fine motor skills (such as hand-eye coordination) and gross motor skills (such as balance and coordination). ‍

Language Development: Sensory activities encourage children to describe their experiences, expanding their vocabulary and communication skills. ‍

Social Interaction: Sensory play often involves group activities, which help children learn to share, take turns, and develop social skills.

Emotional regulation: Sensory play can be calming and help children manage their emotions, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.

Promotes Independence: Sensory play activities foster independence and self-direction, allowing children to explore materials and activities at their own pace and in their own way.

Sensory Play in ECE | Early Childhood Council https://share.google/ZDSVh7FHq18quMhMG

We are a collection point for the PJ Project! We are accepting donations of new pyjamas, of all sizes, which will be distributed to whānau who need a hand up this winter. Help us help our community!

We are looking for our perfect fit! Are you qualified/certificated? Wanting a step back from full-time? Do you embody the ideals of whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, kaitiaki and kotahitanga? Let's chat - apply today!

Teacher (Certificated) New Plymouth | Trade Me Jobs Handy to shops parks beaches and other amenities. Fantastic facilities in a beautiful coastal location. Paid Teaching registration and first aid. Subsidised ...