This week we farewell our Lobster teacher Kate Strickland. Although Kate has only been with us for one semester, her cheerful, friendly nature will be sadly missed by the Lobster children and all of the ELC staff.  Kate is leaving us to concentrate on family and we wish her all the very best.

We also farewell Claire Stevens, she has been with us all term completing her ACU teaching practicum. Claire has fitted in and has proven herself to be a fantastic teacher. We wish Claire every success in the remainder of her studies. Therese Bondoc is also completing her teaching practicum this week. We are fortunate not to be losing Therese as she will rejoin the Turtle class and Seahorses at the start of Term 3. Therese has also made great gains in her journey to becoming a teacher.

Thank you for taking the time to meet with your child’s teacher over the past two weeks, it is a wonderful way to reflect and celebrate the year and growth that has been made.

We recently purchased a spinning chair for our outdoor area, it reminded me of an article I had read on the vestibular sense and the importance of movement to develop this crucial sense. It was an interesting read and I highly recommend you take a moment to read it.

https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/blog/the-incredible-importance-of-developing-the-vestibular-sense

The vestibular sense goes back to the incredibly small hairs inside the inner ear.   When we move, the fluid in our ears moves and stimulates those hairs, sending the brain information about where our body is in space.  The more a child is out of an upright position, the more the fluid will move over the hairs, and the stronger the vestibular sense will become.  Children need to put their bodies in all different positions and move them in all different directions in order to get that fluid moving.

The vestibular sense is a cornerstone sense because it affects the incorporation of all of the others senses.  What does this look like?  Children with a strong vestibular sense are more coordinated and better balanced.  Kids who haven't fully developed their vestibular sense tend to be clumsy and run into things.  They may not have a good understanding of personal space.

Movement during the day and throughout childhood is crucial.  The importance here is monumental.  Childhood is when children develop the vestibular sense and it's not happening while they sit still.  Circle time, seat work, and computer lab sessions do not contribute to this type of sensory development. This is one reason why recess is so good for academics.  Recess helps with brain development.  It wakes the brain up so that the student is ready to learn more in the classroom setting.

 

ELC Holiday Care

If you have booked your child into ELC Holiday Care you will have received a Holiday Care fee statement.  Please check the bookings are correct.  There are still several places available so if you would like a booking please contact the office by Thursday 24^th.  Holiday Care fees are due this Friday 25June and bookings cannot be confirmed if fees are in arrears. 

Monday 12 July – Holiday Care

A reminder that Stingrays and Turtles classes will resume on Tuesday 13 July.  In line with the pupil free days at the primary schools, the ELC will be offering a Holiday Program on Monday 12 July from 7:30am to 6pm at a cost of $85.  If you would like your child to attend the ELC on Monday 12 July, please complete the booking form which is available from the ELC.

ELC Fees

Final Term 2 fees are now due.  Please take a minute to check your ‘amount due’ to ensure your account is paid correctly. As it is the end of term, prompt payment of fees is appreciated.

I wish you all a safe and happy holiday break!