Father’s Day Celebration

Last Friday, our Centre celebrated Father’s Day with a joyful gathering that brought together children, fathers, and grandfathers. The day started with a bright and cheerful atmosphere, as everyone dressed in yellow, creating a sense of unity and celebration. Fathers and grandfathers were warmly welcomed as they arrived, setting the tone for a day full of fun and connection.

The children began the event by singing a welcome song, followed by a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Father’s Day,” which brought smiles to all the fathers present. The highlight of the day was the musical chairs game, where fathers participated with great excitement, bringing laughter and joy to everyone involved.

After the game, everyone enjoyed a delicious spread of snacks, allowing fathers to relax and bond with their children and other families. The sense of community was palpable, as everyone shared in the special day together.

Learning Occurred-
The Father’s Day celebration was not just a fun event but also a rich learning experience for the children. Through singing, they developed their language and communication skills, boosting their confidence in expressing themselves. The musical chair game which played by their fathers also provided a playful way to enhance their social skills, as by watching them they learned about fair play, taking turns, and handling emotions in a competitive setting. The entire event fostered a deeper sense of belongingand community, which are crucial for their emotional and social development. These experiences reflect the holistic learning approach guided by Te Whāriki, Poutama, and NELP, where every interaction contributes to the child’s overall growth.

Speech by Centre Manager Pushbhinder –
To wrap up the event, our Centre manager Pushbhinder, gave an insightful speech. She spoke about the significance of Te Whāriki, explaining how it serves as the foundation of our curriculum, shaping the daily routines and learning experiences of our children. She emphasized how Te Whāriki’s holistic approach ensures that each child’s emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development is nurtured in a balanced way.

She also touched on Poutama, highlighting how the framework guides the progression of children’s learning. The day’s activities, from singing to playing games, were linked to this idea of gradual, supported learning, where each new experience builds on previous knowledge.

Finally, she connected the celebration to NELP (National Education and Learning Priorities), explaining how our Centre’s focus on inclusivity, community engagement, and cultural respect aligns with national goals. The Father’s Day event was a practical demonstration of these priorities, showcasing how we create a learning environment that values family involvement and cultural diversity.

The Father’s Day celebration was a perfect blend of fun, family, and learning. It highlighted how our Centre’s daily practices, rooted in Te Whāriki, Poutama, and NELP, come together to create a nurturing and inclusive environment for all children. Through this celebration, we not only honored the fathers and grandfathers but also strengthened the connections that support our children’s holistic development.