Balit Community Kindergarten recognises the significance of high quality education and care in the early years. Our play-based curriculum acknowledges children as competent and curious learners, valuing their uniqueness and sense of agency. Our programs allow children to develop their critical thinking skills, express their creativity, build imaginations and encourage social relationships.
We place importance on each child’s sense of identity and wellbeing. We embrace different learning styles, supporting children with regulation skills and independent abilities. We understand that children’s learning is more enhanced and meaningful when they are respected and nurtured.
We value partnerships with families. This connection helps us build a stronger relationship with children, understanding them in their unique context. Family involvement in our kinder community sets us apart as a service, with the warmth and authenticity of this important relationship a valuable component to our teaching and practice.
Our educational program is play-based, developed in accordance with early childhood theory, principles and the Early Years Learning and Development Framework. It is also guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Code of Ethics.
Music plays an important role in children’s learning and development, inspiring creativity and expression, building confidence and body awareness and fostering numeracy and literacy skills. Our music program is offered as part of the four-year-old program for Grevillea Group. This session is facilitated by an experienced music teacher. It is a joyful and uplifting feature in our program.
Bush Kinder is offered as a 3 hour session as part of the four-year-old program for Eucalyptus and Native Violet Groups. It is held on the banks of the Merri Creek, the traditional land of the Wurundjeri People, and offers children the opportunity to connect with the natural world. Children explore, imagine, pretend and create outside, experiencing the changes in seasons, plants, birds and insects and our local community. In today’s world, where access to screen time encourages a more sedentary lifestyle, outdoor play is more crucial than ever.
We know balancing kinder hours with busy family schedules can be a challenge. That is why we offer Afters – wrap around care for Eucalyptus and Native Violet Groups. This provides additional playtime in a supportive and familiar environment for children while helping families manage their day. It’s a positive way to extend the benefits of kinder. This program includes an afternoon snack.
For more information on the cost of the Afters Program see the Fees page.
