In the mornings, we gather together to welcome everyone with a song and a mat session.
Everyone is recognised and applauded for being at daycare and joining the circle time. All the children join in and cackle when we sing their names.
After we sing, we look outside and have started tracking the weather. The children tell me what the weather looks like and make predictions for the day.
Then we choose things to do for the day, and the children take turns choosing pictures for our visual timetable.
We often sing songs, read stories, do safe 4 kids, chat, and spend this calm time together before morning tea.
Analysis
The children demonstrate respect and a sense of self-awareness during these important interactions. As a big group, they learn to patiently listen to others while learning how to politely interrupt when wanting to say something. They grow their sense of agency and identity during the songs and choices of experiences.
The morning routine sets the tone for the day and helps educators follow child-led planning.
The mat sessions are getting longer, helping children develop their attention span.
