Curiosity Leads the Learning!
Our Junior Kinder children have been exploring the fascinating world of animals through group discussions and information books filled with real-life photographs and facts. As we looked closely at different animals and their habitats, the children eagerly shared their ideas and observations. During the discussion, Ali excitedly said, “Teacher, I want to make a jellyfish!” This sparked a wonderful conversation about jellyfish, where the children explored what they look like, where they live, and how they move through the ocean. Inspired by their interest, we extended the learning the following day with a creative jellyfish-making experience using recycled cardboard, paint, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes. The children carefully painted, designed, and assembled their own unique jellyfish while developing their fine motor skills, creativity, and confidence. At Small Friends, we value children’s voices and interests, using their ideas to guide meaningful learning experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of discovery. From a simple question to a wonderful learning journey!
Library Adventure!
This week, our children enjoyed a wonderful visit to the local library, exploring a world full of stories, imagination, and discovery. Both junior and senior kinder children visited Glenroy Library Hub for story time. The children eagerly browsed through a variety of books, shared conversations about the illustrations, and listened attentively during story time. Their curiosity and enthusiasm were evident as they immersed themselves in the joy of reading and learning. Library visits provide valuable opportunities to develop early literacy skills, language, communication, and confidence while helping children connect with their wider community. The children also practised important social skills such as listening, following directions, taking turns, and respectfully participating in a shared public space. To support meaningful engagement, the children attended in small groups, allowing everyone the opportunity to actively participate and enjoy the experience. We love creating opportunities that inspire a lifelong love of books, learning, and exploration!
World Oceans Day Exploration
Today, our children celebrated World Oceans Day with a fun and engaging sea animal discovery activity! Using a special ocean sensory tray, the children searched for hidden sea creatures beneath the water. As they moved a clear tube across the surface, exciting discoveries were revealed one by one. “Look, it’s an octopus!” the children exclaimed. Together, we counted its arms and discovered that an octopus has eight arms! The children eagerly searched for more sea creatures, excited to see what would appear next. Through this hands-on experience, the children developed their observation, language, and counting skills while learning about the amazing animals that live in our oceans. We also talked about the importance of keeping our environment clean and how reducing litter helps protect marine life. The children learned that every small action can make a big difference in caring for our oceans. Small hands can make a big impact!
Fizzing Science Fun in Our 3-Year-Old Funded Kinder Room
Today, the children participated in a hands-on scientific exploration using coloured vinegar, sodium bicarbonate, droppers, seashells, colourful magnetic tiles, and mini lids. The children approached the experience with curiosity and excitement, eager to explore the materials and discover what would happen. Using droppers, the children carefully collected coloured vinegar and squeezed it onto the sodium bicarbonate-covered objects. They watched closely as the colourful liquid touched the powder and created a fizzy, bubbling reaction. Smiles and excitement filled the room as the children observed the bubbles forming across the magnetic tiles and seashells. The children became fascinated by the different colours available and enjoyed experimenting by mixing coloured vinegars in the mini lids. They observed how colours blended together to create new shades and eagerly repeated the process, demonstrating persistence, concentration, and a love of discovery. Throughout the experience, the children strengthened their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination while using the droppers. They carefully observed the cause-and-effect reactions and explored early scientific concepts through hands-on investigation. The children also enjoyed learning alongside their peers, sharing materials, exchanging ideas, and participating in a collaborative learning experience filled with curiosity, creativity, and wonder.
National Sorry Day 2026
In our Toddler Room at Pearl Street, children participated in a meaningful sensory play experience to acknowledge National Sorry Day. Using natural materials such as leaves, sticks, bark, stones, and sand, the children explored, created, and connected with nature through hands-on learning. Educators shared simple and age-appropriate conversations about kindness, respect, belonging, and caring for one another. Through exploration and play, the children engaged with the natural environment while learning about the importance of community, inclusion, and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Together, we continue to nurture understanding, empathy, and appreciation for the rich cultures and histories of Australia’s First Nations peoples.
Animal Adventure in Our 4-Year-Old Funded Kindergarten Room
Today, our Kinder Room educators created an exciting open-ended learning experience called “The Animal Adventure”. Inspired by the children’s growing curiosity about caterpillars and animals, the space invited children to explore a variety of creatures including zoo animals, dinosaurs, insects, and bugs. Alongside this, children enjoyed a Veterinary Hospital Role-Play Area complete with stethoscopes , thermometers , doctor and nurse aprons , pencils , and paper . The children enthusiastically cared for their animal patients, taking on different roles and engaging in meaningful conversations. Benefits of this experience: Encourages curiosity and inquiry-based learning Develops language and communication skills-Promotes social interaction and teamwork-Enhances imagination and creativity-Builds empathy and caring behaviours towards animals-Supports early literacy and mark-making skills At Small Friends Childcare, we value children’s interests and create engaging learning environments that inspire exploration, discovery, and imagination every day.
Rhymes Time at the Glenroy Library Hub
Our Baby Room children from Small Friends Child Care Centre Pearl Street enjoyed a lovely excursion in the 6-seater pram, exploring the community while soaking up the beautiful sunshine and fresh air. The children attended Rhymes Time at the Glenroy Library Hub where they enjoyed singing songs, listening to rhymes, dancing to music, and engaging with the wider community. Benefits of excursions and rhyme time experiences: -Encourages connection with the community-Supports language and listening skills-Enhances rhythm, movement, and coordination-Builds confidence and social interaction-Promotes wellbeing through outdoor experiences-Encourages curiosity and exploration-Strengthens relationships with educators and peers-Supports communication and early literacy development The children had so much fun dancing, smiling, and exploring the world around them!
Children engaging in fun and educational learning experiences!
At Small Friends Child Care Centre Pearl Street, our children have been actively engaging in fun and educational learning experiences! The children are learning: -Numbers-Letters and phonics-Days of the week-Months of the year-Cutting and scissor skills Through hands-on activities, group discussions, songs, and creative experiences, children are building confidence while developing important early learning skills in a fun and engaging environment. Benefits of these learning experiences: -Supports cognitive development and memory-Builds early literacy and numeracy skills-Strengthens fine motor and hand control skills-Improves hand-eye coordination-Encourages language and communication development-Builds confidence, independence, and concentration-Promotes social interaction and participation Learning through play helps children grow into confident and capable learners every day.
Homemade Cinnamon Cookies For Afternoon Tea
At Small Friends Child Care Centre Glenroy, our lovely chef Nirmen prepared delicious homemade cinnamon cookies for afternoon tea today! Our chef proudly cooks fresh, healthy, and halal meals every day, ensuring children enjoy nutritious food made with care and love. The beautiful aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the centre, and the children absolutely loved their special treat. Benefits of healthy freshly prepared meals: -Supports healthy growth and development-Provides energy for active learning and play-Encourages brain development and concentration-Promotes healthy eating habits from an early age-Introduces children to different flavours and textures-Freshly cooked halal meals prepared with care and quality ingredients We love creating warm, homely experiences where children feel happy, cared for, and excited about mealtimes.
Mother’s Day Celebration at Small Friends
We would like to thank all the beautiful mums and special mother figures for attending our Mother’s Day afternoon last Friday. The children were thrilled to participate in fun-filled art and craft experiences including: Colouring & painting -Bracelet making-Block play with mums-Creative play experiences Families also enjoyed delicious cupcakes , freshly made cheese scrolls , and special moments together at our photo booth creating beautiful memories to treasure. The day ended with laughter, smiles, love, and gratitude as we celebrated the important role mums play in children’s lives. Thank you for making the event so warm and special for everyone.