Kindergarten embraces technology
May 2011

Technology is bringing the world closer for children at Foxton Kindergarten as teachers actively research the potential of information and communications technology (ICT) in early childhood education.

The research is part of a scholarship programme developed by Ruahine Kindergartens in 2009 to enhance service provided by member kindergartens.

Teachers at Foxton Kindergarten say the increased accessibility of computers, digital cameras and digital microscopes has seen children blossom into confident independent learners.

"Children are natural users of ICT", said head teacher Sheree Adams.

"Technology is a big part of their world and it's made a big difference to their learning journeys", she said.

Information gained using ICT often carries over into other kindergarten activities and can create discussions that last for days, weeks or even months.

"It's a great way to extend children's interests", said Mrs Adams.

"Children are now more aware of their own learning and able to share knowledge and skills with their peers."

Parents and whānau are also reaping the benefits with many coming in to kindergarten to learn alongside their children.

Teachers are delighted with this response and are currently considering different ways to share skills with families.

As part of their research, the Foxton teaching team worked through strategies for monitoring internet usage and engaged with families to create a cyber safe agreement.

All sites and programmes used by children are checked and monitored by teachers to ensure the safety of children online.

Mrs Adams will attend the New Zealand Childcare Association Conference in Rotorua in July to present the Foxton teaching team's findings along with colleagues from Ruahine Kindergartens.

Above: Cameron shares his skills with Torryn as she uses a laptop at Foxton Kindergarten. 

Down on the farm
September 2010 

The first day of spring was filled with animals and adventure for children from Foxton Kindergarten.

After waiting eagerly for the bus to arrive, 36 children, accompanied by teachers and parents, set off on an exciting journey to the Cole's family farm followed by a trip to native bird and wildlife park, Owlcatraz, in Shannon.

When everybody arrived at the farm, Tyler's mum, dad, nana and granddad demonstrated the equipment and method they use to feed the calves.

Another group of children took a tour of the implement shed, learning all about large farm machinery including a hay baler and giant lawnmower.

Head Teacher, Sheree, said, "children loved watching and patting the calves. Some even held out their hands for the calves to suck, which was a whole new experience for them".

"Children at our kindergarten have a strong interest in animals and the farm visit was a great way of building links with our families", she said. 

It was this interest in animals that led teachers to incorporate a visit to Owlcatraz into their excursion, during which children learnt all about owls, native snails, kune kune pigs, donkeys, bulls, ostriches and their eggs, llamas and deer.

Rides on Owlcatraz's Thomas the Tank Engine miniature train brought a wonderful day to a fantastic close. Many thanks to all the whanau who helped make this day so memorable.

Above: Teacher Claire and children from Foxton Kindergarten pat the friendly donkey at Owlcatraz