My special skiping rope.

Child: Najma Date: September 2013 Written by: Eunjoo Kia ora/As-salamu alaykum Najma and whnau, Najma, you are a sociable girl and always play with your friends. However, this afternoon you were so busy playing with the skipping rope and scooter. Both of them became your favourite outside play equipment recently. So whenever I gave you a chance to choose a toy from the shade you picked one of them. Both items are popular so it is hard to get them together. Luckily, Najma, you had both in your hands. I was really curious about what you were going to do with them. First, I noticed that you spent some time untying the tangled skipping rope. I can

see that you were determined to deal with it. Once you finished tidying the rope you rode on the scooter while holding the rope in your left hand. You continued riding the scooter with the rope. I was a bit worried that you might trip over the rope. A couple of times you looked behind as if you were checking the rope. Later I came to you and asked why you were holding the rope while riding the bike. You said with a smile, Its pretty and I like it. I found that the rope was tied to one of the handles. It was a bit loose so Najama, I guess that is why you tightly held on to it. I think that the rope is a special accessory for your scooter. I love your creative thinking. Well done.

What is happening here? Children learn not only through play while they interact with other children but also when they play by themselves. Therefore, solitary play is also important. Today, I can see that Najma, You initiated your own play with items that interest you. You are playful with equipment and express your feelings verbally and through gestures. In your solitary play you looked like a problem solver, designer and a model. Te Whariki suggests the importance of an environment

where children can discover and develop different ways to be creative and expressive. Additionally, Najma, its good to see you continue checking the rope and scooter. It shows us that you are able to make decisions, choose your own materials and set your own problems (Exploration, goal 1). Ka pai.

Whats next for Najmas learning step? Najama, I enjoyed watching you engage and explore on the outside playground. Our teachers will continue to provide opportunities for you to explore your strengths and interests by showing sensitive interventions and encouragement.

Child/Parents/Whnau Voice