https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells Learning Snapshots en-us 2022-02-17 03:24:58 UTC 2025-09-18 07:55:41 UTC hello@padlet.com sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2052345615 2022-02-17 03:32:29 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2052345615 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2054607527 2022-02-18 04:44:15 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2054607527 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2054612778 2022-02-18 04:49:23 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2054612778 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2061628627 Isaac suggested a game of Duck, Duck, Goose during the morning and most of the Bluebells children joined in to play it together. There was lots of running and laughter!]]> 2022-02-23 00:57:16 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2061628627 brookeschliebs https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2065730199 2022-02-25 03:30:09 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2065730199 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2074526765 Look at our colourful sticks! We have found many different sized sticks in our playground and we enjoyed painting them this morning.]]> 2022-03-02 22:52:57 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2074526765 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099403559 The Bluebells enjoyed visiting the Music Room today. Using the drums we created rhythms using syllable patterns in words. We then worked in groups to compose a piece of music. Leighton says that next time we visit he would like to play a trumpet ❤]]> 2022-03-17 05:32:20 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099403559 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099421730 Today's fine motor challenge was to create a hand puppet inspired by Mopoke by Philip Bunting. Sarah shared that Philip Bunting is her favourite author and she has 5 of his books at her house. The preschool team would love to know if you have a favourite author or a collection of favourite books by the same author. Please add your comment in the section below.]]> 2022-03-17 05:49:36 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099421730 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099512616 Our day in preschool was filled with mathematics. We were sorting and classifying, counting and subitising, and measuring and comparing properties.]]> 2022-03-17 07:16:27 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099512616 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099515604 Sarah's favourite thing to say to us is, "but if you don't go home all messy how will your family know you had fun?" and today the Bluebells went home very soggy and sandy. Thank you families for continuing to send a spare pair of clothes for children to change into after engaging in sensory play.]]> 2022-03-17 07:18:51 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2099515604 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2101193833 Today we started a new routine, Gross Motor. We participated in lots of movement challenges. We practiced balancing, jumping and throwing and worked our tummy muscles on the scooter boards!]]> 2022-03-18 02:43:46 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2101193833 brookeschliebs1 https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2101267927 This week the Bluebells have been busy expanding on a range of different skills through so many fantastic indoor and outdoor activities such as water play, obstacle courses, easel art, maths games, drumming and so much more!! ]]> 2022-03-18 03:39:54 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2101267927 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2108933584 The Bluebells enjoy playing parachute games where active listening, turn taking and cooperative skills are practised. Every day we are getting better and better at working together and following the Gilmore Guidelines. ]]> 2022-03-23 04:14:00 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2108933584 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2111059934 The Bluebells went to the Library with Sarah today. We brainstormed what makes a good book and wrote about some of our favourite types of books. We are learning how to use the library to search for books we know or discover new books based on our interests. If your family has a favourite author or book series we would love to hear about it!]]> 2022-03-24 03:49:32 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2111059934 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2111060438 2022-03-24 03:49:52 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2111060438 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2111391326 Today the Bluebells celebrated Harmony Day's theme 'Everyone Belongs' by cooking and enjoying a shared pumpkin soup lunch together.]]> 2022-03-24 08:24:42 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2111391326 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182528733 Some children participated in a STEAM activity to measure the area of a shape using leaves. They noticed that placing the leaves in different orientations affected how many or few leaves were required to cover the surface of the shape. Some children experimented with making their own shapes and comparing if thoses area needed more or less leaves.]]> 2022-05-13 07:42:52 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182528733 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182532202 Interactive writing is a process we use at preschool to create texts collaboratively and work on our individual writing goals with support from our teachers. Today some children helped to write an invitation for our assembly.]]> 2022-05-13 07:46:41 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182532202 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182539663 Some children explored, experimented and compared the properties of the different construction materials in STEAM today. We built and tested bridges to carry the weight of various plastic animals. There was lots of designing and redesigning.]]> 2022-05-13 07:54:37 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182539663 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182544170 The Bluebells Construction Company had a visit by the foreman today. Huxten was looking for holes in the walls and safe stacking of the blocks and giving ticks on his clipboard for a job well done.]]> 2022-05-13 07:59:52 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2182544170 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2189092279 The teachers were so proud of the amazing Bluebells throughout their assembly. Thank you to the families who were able to join us today.]]> 2022-05-18 08:01:55 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2189092279 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2190712365 The conclusion to today's STEAM cooking experience was that "The tacos tasted GOOD!". Ask your Bluebell about the healthy ingredients used.]]> 2022-05-19 05:15:39 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2190712365 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2192662385 After a confusing start to the day (thank you our wonderful families for your understanding and kindness!) the Bluebells were cheered by the entire school as they ran their Cross Country race (with the support of their siblings and our amazing Year 6 Leaders). Vicki nearly ran out of stickers and she proudly handed them out for a job well done. The preschool teachers couldn't have been prouder!]]> 2022-05-20 07:53:59 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2192662385 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2192665633 The Bluebells Landscape Co. was back today! We joined the K1 classes in helping our principal Vicki who was tasked with preparing the school for Election Day. Many Bluebells children contributed by removing the leaves, sweeping the paths, and tidying the gardens at. the front of the school]]> 2022-05-20 07:57:01 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2192665633 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2200284374 The Kinetic Sand was a popular choice today. Cupcakes were made, castles were decorated, and shapes were moulded. Sophia and Millie also created the ocean which led to a conversation with other children about what creatures we have seen or might find at the beach.]]> 2022-05-26 03:13:28 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2200284374 deirdrethomson https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2206911994 2022-06-01 03:03:22 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2206911994 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2207151154 After the recent change in weather Out The Back was again transformed, providing new provocations for play today. Sophia, Aubrey, Leighton, Jasper, Daniel, Holly, and some children from kindergarten discovered "sneaky puddles" that had formed in the grass. We worked together to listen for the squelching sound as we stomped around.]]> 2022-06-01 07:32:44 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2207151154 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2216840835 Leighton was drawing with whiteboards today. "I drew my baby, and my grown ups is names is Mummy and Daddy. My daddy is black hair."]]> 2022-06-10 00:21:50 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2216840835 deirdrethomson https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2216977001 2022-06-10 02:34:12 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2216977001 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2217139809 Mason, Millie and Aria were playing an awesome role-play game in the dry creek today. They were garden fairies trying to escape the baddie, Gargamel. "He's invisible. We are getting away. We'll fly away!" said Mason. "We are taking his lollies," added Millie who was resourcing the game with natural objects she had collected in a wheelbarrow.]]> 2022-06-10 05:47:18 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2217139809 deirdrethomson https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2221451520 2022-06-15 02:53:13 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2221451520 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2222559946 Take a look at our progress! We have been learning to recognise letters and we have been practising their formation when we sign-in during the morning.]]> 2022-06-16 02:24:03 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2222559946 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2223835452 When Isaac and Sarah observing how the fog was hiding our beautiful view of the mountains, Isaac noticed sparkly "crystals" on the preschool fence. Upon closer inspection they discovered the crystals were in fact tiny droplets of water clinging to spiderwebs. Soon Aria, Aavas and Huxten had joined the hunt for dewy spiderwebs. Sarah suggested they continue the search Out The Back and soon the excitement had rippled through you group as we headed out in search of beautiful webs to find. After taking lots and lots of photos the children put together a short movie and they enjoyed watching it over and over. Leighton and Jasper had the great idea of inviting Vicki and Nanatine to watch it too. Next preschool knew they would have to build a movie theatre and make tickets. Benny wanted to know if there would be popcorn. The Bluebells arranged the chairs in groups of 3 so that everyone would be able to see, and they saved the comfy couch for the special guests. The popcorn chefs served the snacks and the projectionist pressed play on the screen. What a big project that all started from a little observation of the weather. Great work today Bluebells!]]> 2022-06-17 07:29:34 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2223835452 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2223836680 Produced by The Bluebells Production Studio]]> 2022-06-17 07:31:09 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2223836680 brookeschliebs https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2229335931 Yesterday the Bluebells had a great time exploring their gross motor capabilities by climbing and balancing using the new preschool equipment. This type of exploration and play is great for children to develop independence and satisfaction of their own achievements, problem solving, spacial and directional awareness, while also improving on balance, and hand and foot coordination! ]]> 2022-06-24 01:37:43 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2229335931 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2229433654 The Bluebells were practising Crossing the Midline, a skill which helps us complete a range of tasks including writing, reaching towards and putting on shoes, and hitting a ball with a bat. Today we drew lazy eights, a horizontal shape which helps us build the fluency patterns used for letter formation as well as using our dominant hand to trace and draw. We are looking forward to sharing more about your child's gross motor skills at the Student Learning Discussions next week. Call the front office to book a time!]]> 2022-06-24 03:19:00 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2229433654 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2229436182 Leighton, Aavas and Huxten played a structured game together; rolling the die and then building towers using the corresponding quantity to make the tallest tower. It was tricky to keep the tower balanced as we had more turns.]]> 2022-06-24 03:22:33 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2229436182 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2233906301 Parcels were wrapped and addressed. Streets were named and numbered. Mail was delivered and opened. The "Post Office" experience was child initiated and included maths, art, literacy, dramatic play, fine and gross motor movement, social skills and FUN.]]> 2022-06-30 03:07:55 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2233906301 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2234941449 The Bluebells had so much fun at the disco today. Thanks Holly for bringing glowsticks to share with us!]]> 2022-07-01 07:20:58 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2234941449 deirdrethomson https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2250315298 2022-07-27 02:56:08 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2250315298 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2250940647 What fantastic day! Make sure you check out the Gilmore Primary Facebook page for the highlights video.]]> 2022-07-28 03:16:11 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2250940647 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2251597171 The Bluebells listed possible risks and ways of staying safe on our upcoming excursion to the local library. Your child has brought their co-constructed list home today with a question to ask you, "what rules do we have in our family that keep us safe when we go out?" The staff team would love to see what contributions you may have.]]> 2022-07-29 05:27:45 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2251597171 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2254606604 This morning we were looking at the weather forecast and talking about the thunderstorm. We looked up the rain radar map and read the scale along the bottom to help us know when we could play outside, and when the rain was too heavy. Leighton, Huxten, Jasper, Aubrey and Millie also made their own rain radar maps using the colour scale to show if the rain was light, moderate or heavy. ]]> 2022-08-04 04:24:36 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2254606604 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2254608759 Some Bluebells worked with Kylie today on a light refraction experiment. They watched a Cool Science video to see how to use a glass of water to bend (refract) light and change the way a picture appears. Sophia, Benny, Millie, Aavas and Annabelle even experimented with making their own simple pictures to change with refracted light.]]> 2022-08-04 04:28:16 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2254608759 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2257846140 Benny went fishing today and practised counting the dots on each fish, using 1:1 correspondence.]]> 2022-08-10 02:10:40 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2257846140 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2257966091 We love a movement break at Assembly! 🕺]]> 2022-08-10 06:08:12 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2257966091 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2258955244 Today the Bluebells worked with mentor text Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer for inspiration in publishing their writing for the DMG writing competition. They are so proud and wanted to share their co-constructed book with Sophie herself so after a quick search of her website they found her email address and have sent her a message. Sarah wondered if Erindale Library might have her full collection of books available for borrowing. ]]> 2022-08-11 10:12:42 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2258955244 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259517877 Jasper wondered if paper would float. He predicted that it would and made this item to test it out in a puddle found at preschool... Ask Jasper what he discovered!]]> 2022-08-12 02:21:38 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259517877 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259521479 Leighton, Benny and Huxten set a challenge to see who could slide down the slide in the craziest but safest way.]]> 2022-08-12 02:27:34 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259521479 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259580435 Today some children worked with Kylie to make watercolour artworks inspired by Peggy, a picturebook about a chicken who catches a train into a town. Mason says, "we really loved it!"]]> 2022-08-12 04:04:35 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259580435 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259581644 In group time today the Bluebells worked on their numeral identification skills. Taking turn, we rolled the big numeral dice and worked together to identify and match the numerals on the board, taking them away each time we rolled the number. Soon there was only a few numerals left and it took such a long time to roll the matching numeral on the dice. Eventually we got them all! Before we went away for play the children worked together to put them back in order to make a numberline on the big computer.]]> 2022-08-12 04:06:36 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259581644 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259587056 Huxten, Benny, and Aavas worked together to fill the capacity of the long pipe with a variety of objects. It was tricky to keep one end blocked so that the objects didn't just slide out, while still keeping the pipe low enough for everyone to reach.]]> 2022-08-12 04:16:54 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2259587056 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2264929645 As part of our Sleep and Rest procedure, a requirement under Education and Care Services National Law, the Bluebells have a reading and quiet time routine every day after lunch. During this time children can relax on the couch or rocking chairs, read books to themselves and others, and some children read from their Good Fit Book Boxes, where they are working on building their repertoire of known stories that they can read off by heart. On Thursdays Nanatine, our Family Engagement Coordinator, visits to read with us too.]]> 2022-08-19 00:00:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2264929645 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2264945529 On Thursdays we go to the Alison Lester playground. We had a bakery in the sandpit, played on the playground, and learned some new skipping games.]]> 2022-08-19 00:20:34 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2264945529 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2264952308 Continuing on our learning about glass for Science Week today we investigated reflection. We built kaleidoscopes using pieces of acrylic mirrors, conducted a science experiment using shiny spoons, and here we made our own mirrors using paper, alfoil and light. ]]> 2022-08-19 00:28:24 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2264952308 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265161299 Continuing from our Dame Mary Gilmore Writing Project learning, the children were experimenting with punctuation to create flap book style messages with half the message on a post-it note flap with three dots (an ellipsis) showing the reader there was more writing under the flap. We had lots of fun writing 'BOO!', scary faces, our names, and love hearts for the recipients of our messages to find.]]> 2022-08-19 04:45:09 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265161299 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265162863 Yesterday the preschool children found many fallen flowers from the wattle tree which inspired some playdough sculptures. Today we moved the play into an Outdoor Art Studio under the shade of the wattle tree with children sculpting and painting their observations of the changes to the outdoor environment.]]> 2022-08-19 04:47:42 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265162863 brookeschliebs https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265193118 Today Jasper drew a diagram inspired by the non-fiction book that he borrowed from the library, 'Coral Reef'. Jasper exclaimed "Clown fish like water" as he showed us his creation on the white board. Keep up the good work Jasper!  ]]> 2022-08-19 05:37:30 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265193118 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265370065 Refraction, reflection, light, colour, and properties of glass; we covered it all over these last two weeks! Glass helps us see the world in new ways. Ask your Bluebell what they learned this week!]]> 2022-08-19 10:33:08 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2265370065 https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2269489991 Aubrey’s mum gets to open some mail this afternoon. Aubrey addressed the envelope, folded the paper, and drew the picture inside, all by herself. ]]> 2022-08-24 01:31:42 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2269489991 https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2269671815 2022-08-24 04:34:48 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2269671815 https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2269673412 2022-08-24 04:36:55 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2269673412 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2271219128 Stacey read this book during our library visit. She was so impressed with all of the children's wonderings and inferences as we read that she just had to share a few!

Holly was very interested that this book had no writing. As Stacey demonstrated how to read the pictures Holly shared her understanding as the boy's facial expressions changed to show he was sad.

Sophia comprehended that time was passing in the book by observing the seasonal changes in the leaves of the forest.

Jasper shared his connection after noticed the crossed painting on the trees, "oh no! The trees will get chopped down."

At the end of the story Aria shared her inference, "the boy doesn't need the elephant tree anymore. He's not lonely because he has a friend now."]]> 2022-08-25 09:24:58 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2271219128 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2271232278 As we continue to build our soccer skills, the Bluebells are now working on controlling the ball, or dribbling. In a game of Red Light Green Light they are working moving around a designated space quickly, then slowly, before stopping the ball with their dominant foot.]]> 2022-08-25 09:31:57 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2271232278 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2271263942 With the help of some Year 6 Leaders, children co-constructed the risk assessment for our upcoming excursion. The children had some awesome suggestions, including using head counts and maps to make sure we don't get lost, taking the playground duty bag that contains bandaids incase anyone falls over and bleeds, and using road safety rules when crossing or walking near the road.]]> 2022-08-25 10:15:21 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2271263942 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2272258860 The preschool and playgroup worked together to read and then vote for their favourite Book Week. It was a tight race, but The Boy and the Elephant was our gold medal winner!]]> 2022-08-26 03:25:51 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2272258860 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2272267156 We have had so much fun sharing and telling stories. We enjoyed sitting in the book corner reading each others' books from home, putting on plays and puppet shows, and Mason shared a trick for making Hungry Caterpillar puppets you can move using air from a straw!]]> 2022-08-26 03:33:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2272267156 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2272551728 2022-08-26 10:19:28 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2272551728 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2278970091 Lots of fun playing in the box construction bus and bus shelter today. Bus driver Mason was heading to Queensland when passenger Leighton noticed the engine was broken. Luckily tow truck driver Aavas arrived on the scene with his tools to fix the bus! 💖]]> 2022-09-01 08:06:56 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2278970091 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2278973040 For this week's STEAM learning the children constructed paddlepop stick catapults. We were counting sticks, building finger strength when fastening with rubber bands, and getting creative with cotton bud painting. We are looking forward to testing our constructions tomorrow when they're dry.]]> 2022-09-01 08:10:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2278973040 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2278975024 What a great way to kick off the first day of spring! Today we estimated, counted and recorded how many buckets of water would be needed to fill the water tray.]]> 2022-09-01 08:13:10 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2278975024 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2279965090 We are so excited!]]> 2022-09-01 23:42:05 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2279965090 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280014012 We saw Huxten's house, Mason's early learning school and Aubrey's brother's early learning school. We drove past the shops, the park, the pond before arriving at the shops.]]> 2022-09-02 00:35:38 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280014012 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280494126 Mikaela the librarian read us two stories from her favourite author Mem Fox and we sang some familiar songs.]]> 2022-09-02 08:42:48 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280494126 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280498736 After group time we visited all the parts of the library, learned about the shelving and borrowing systems, found the Erindale Library collection of Hot Reads (they call them Hot Picks), contributed to the completion of some very tricky puzzles, and some children got to test out their brand new library cards on the very big scanner.]]> 2022-09-02 08:48:00 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280498736 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280501403 Waiting for our return bus was not difficult with these lovely new library bags containing lots of interesting treasures from the library. What an awesome day!]]> 2022-09-02 08:51:35 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2280501403 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2285511349 Jasper went searching for every letter in the alphabet, named them and placed each letter in order. P.S. He found x, y, z after the photo was taken.]]> 2022-09-07 00:38:47 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2285511349 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2285589811 Huxten invented a new move on the chain bridge today. Sarah helped him learn that it is called a tuck hang. Soon many more Bluebells and kinders joined the game, excitedly counting to measure how long each player could hang on.]]> 2022-09-07 01:40:42 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2285589811 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2287716766 The Bluebells have been visiting Alison Lester where the kindergarten children learn and play for over a term now (which is part of our structured and gradual transition program) and were very interested to find out that our preschool building is also named after a famous Australian author, Pamela Allen. During their library visit they worked together to find the tubs of books by both authors and look for letters to match the names on the tubs to the names on the book covers. Each child selected a new or favourite book from the tubs to add to our classroom library so we can continue to read and compare books by these two amazing authors. On their walk back to the classroom they bumped into buddy class teachers Maddie and Jess and Annabelle asked, "do you have a building name?" After hearing that it's Jeannie Baker Mason excitedly looked at Sarah and exclaimed, "I know that! We've read those books!"]]> 2022-09-08 06:45:15 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2287716766 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299415124 The Bluebells have been increasingly interested in finding out more about our bin system at Gilmore. Annabelle, have visiting the compost system to see the different steps for processing food waste Over the last fortnight we have been playing with Binion, a recycling bin puppet, borrowed from No Waste ACT. We have been observing and comparing materials and properties of various items to determine if the item can be reused or recycled before sorting into into the appropriate bin. Eli shared his expertise and demonstrated how to test if the item was 'crinkly'. The children are very interested in finding out more about repurposing items so keep an eye out for a letter from them asking for your help with a special project over the holidays!]]> 2022-09-16 04:30:10 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299415124 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299421568 Following our excursion, the Bluebells have continued to be interested in using Google Maps to look at satellite photos of familiar places. Today we explored a range of maps of the school and discussed their purpose and features. Next we expanding on our usual visit to 'big school' to include observing and recording features of the familiar places we visit around the school. ]]> 2022-09-16 04:37:17 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299421568 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299423643 We had lots of fun making domino constructions today. It was so tricky to make them without accidentally making the dominos fall. When we play games together we are learning to use self-talk scripts when things don't go the way we'd hoped, how to wait while others think about their turn, how to speak safely when we think something isn't fair, and how to show kindness by making sure others have a fair turn too. When Benny's construction was knocked over by accident he used a script by saying, "argh oh no!" When Leighton knocked his construction Daniel said, "keep trying again." When Holly didn't want anyone to knock her dominos she spoke safely and said, "not yet." When Leighton wanted to negotiate he spoke safely and said, "what about here Daniel? In a line?" When Huxten joined in Holly said, "you can sit here. There's lots of room." We are looking forward to showing you how we do this at our Learning Journey next week.]]> 2022-09-16 04:39:32 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299423643 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299442704 Continuing our investigation of popular picture book authors, this week we have been reading many Julia Donaldson books. After reading and borrowing A Squash and a Squeeze during yesterday's library visit, some children demonstrated their knowledge of reading good fit books using repeating patterns, while others were inspired to use the book to retell the story using the dollhouse toys.]]> 2022-09-16 05:01:07 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299442704 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299611652 Holly read her new Good Fit Book aloud to her friends using the repeating pattern in the text.]]> 2022-09-16 07:41:17 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2299611652 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2337831175 Our buddies in years 2/3 visited us this morning and read to us from a variety of Elephant and Piggie books written by Mo Willems.]]> 2022-10-13 00:27:38 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2337831175 haydenpetersen https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2339554664 Problem solving, cooperation, balancing, using imagination and estimating! Wow! Who knew how much learning could be tied up in one little game of "The floor is Lava!"]]> 2022-10-14 00:19:41 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2339554664 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2346251190 The warm weather is finally here. Today we have been discussing how the hot sun can make us feel, and ways to stay hydrated and protect our skin from sunburn. Thank you for sending your child in layered clothing that they can easily remove as the weather heats up, in addition to their sunsmart clothing, hats and bottles filled with water only. ]]> 2022-10-19 02:44:24 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2346251190 brookeschliebs https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2348061378 Today the Bluebells had our buddies from Jeannie Baker visit to help us explore our understanding of gratitude. Everyone was so impressed with Benny and Huxten's writing that they went and showed Vicki and Lili their Quality Work. They both received a Principals award sticker. ]]> 2022-10-20 00:56:21 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2348061378 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2348388854 Our Belonging inquiry continues this week, with the Bluebells investigating why people receive letters. They know that letters and cards sometimes are delivered by posties who might drive vans or ride bikes. They know that sometimes letters are exciting to receive like Gilmore Good News Postcards, and sometimes are not good to receive like bills or fines from the library. They were also very excited to receive some letters from adults and students at school, including a very prized letter from Gillian who has returned and was working in Year 4 today. Check out this week's Gazette article for more information about how we are using writing with purpose this term.]]> 2022-10-20 05:05:46 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2348388854 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2348406851 The Bluebells were treated to some more readers theatre by their Buddy Class Teachers today. After reading The Thank You Book (another in the Elephant and Piggie series) they participated in a turn and talk to consider who they are grateful and why. The buddies stayed to support them in drawing and writing their responses ready to share with families in the Week 4 assembly. Looking forward to showing you our finished works then!]]> 2022-10-20 05:21:09 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2348406851 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2351415097 Gross motor this week included a new focus skill: skipping. This is a tricky one which requires control of both arms and legs in an alternating pattern of movement. Today some children worked on jumping over a rope laid flat on the ground, some worked on a jump then flip pattern, and some children were combining these two movements to skip forwards. Looking forward to sharing more with you as your child develops this skill.]]> 2022-10-22 03:38:20 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2351415097 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2351434296 Fun Day was a blast! The Bluebells had so much fun playing with the Year 6 Leaders, making iced biscuits to snack on, visiting the salon, going for a billy cart ride, and testing their skills in lots of games.]]> 2022-10-22 04:47:33 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2351434296 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2351437248 After spotting some snails sheltering on our window ledge, many Bluebells tested their investigation skills to search for bugs, compare their features, and record their findings. Aria and Millie learned the term 'leaf litter' to describe the layer of broken leaves that lie above the soil where many bugs could be spotted, Mason and Huxten learned to use 'fragile' to describe a snail shell not being very strong, Leighton and Holly were slater bug finding experts, and Bug Sophia and Bug Aubrey imagined in a role-play game in the trees.]]> 2022-10-22 04:58:52 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2351437248 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358492844 Please check back later for description of learning.]]> 2022-10-27 05:20:37 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358492844 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358505673 Benny, Jasper and Aavas were playing cooperatively in the sandpit today; using the pipe as a "seesaw" to balance and tip items from one end to the other. Lots of giggly fun!]]> 2022-10-27 05:33:34 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358505673 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358512484 Huxten, Millie, Aubrey and Sophia have been playing a simple maths game that works on subitising (quickly recognising collections of objects and comparing quantities without the need to count from 1). Want to know why this is an important skill? Ask Sarah!]]> 2022-10-27 05:40:34 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358512484 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358714078 Testing out the new soccer balls in a child-led game of Red Light Green Light.]]> 2022-10-27 08:27:59 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358714078 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358715221 Using the big magnifying glasses helped us continue to sort and classify the various bugs found at preschool.]]> 2022-10-27 08:28:59 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2358715221 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2366062809 The Bluebells did a great job presenting their rhyming baskets at assembly today.]]> 2022-11-02 04:33:30 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2366062809 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2369481524 Aubrey and Sophia made a nest for birds today. Though they thought they might need Dave's help with the tall ladder to get the nest up into a tree.]]> 2022-11-04 03:00:15 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2369481524 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2369488008 There were searches for stick insects, butterflies, bees, spiders, ants and lady bugs today. Aria searched for "anything suspicious" as well.]]> 2022-11-04 03:05:23 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2369488008 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378256696 2022-11-10 08:41:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378256696 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378257751 2022-11-10 08:42:28 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378257751 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378258665 2022-11-10 08:43:21 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378258665 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378258960 2022-11-10 08:43:38 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2378258960 brookeschliebs https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2379675951 2022-11-11 03:49:16 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2379675951 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2385637504 2022-11-15 23:12:52 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2385637504 kyliedibley https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2385661129 Leighton asked how hail is made so we did some research to find out.]]> 2022-11-15 23:45:40 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2385661129 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2396376480 Any ideas what we might be making today?]]> 2022-11-24 04:55:01 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2396376480 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2396379501 The Bluebells were searching the various nature spaces around the school (a great opportunity for another kindergarten transition visit!); sorting and classifying objects to gather for our concert prop making project today.]]> 2022-11-24 04:58:37 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2396379501 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2396382854 Benny and Leighton worked on their learning goals today; identifying and searching for B and L in the magnetic letters. Want to know more about what your child is working on in their learning? Book a Student Learning Discussion!]]> 2022-11-24 05:02:16 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2396382854 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2397498486 The Bluebells met the local postie when he was delivering letters for Gilmore Primary School.]]> 2022-11-25 03:55:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2397498486 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2397563973 Finishing touches on our concert preparations included creating this poster. We were practising our negotiating and turn taking skills when collaborating on the design. Aubrey and Daniel illustrated the gum tree background, Mason and Leighton decided on the title and text, and Jasper and Benny added the birds. We can't wait to share it with you on Wednesday! 🌳🐦]]> 2022-11-25 05:27:42 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2397563973 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2397626036 2022-11-25 07:00:27 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2397626036 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2404544523 Today we had our last library visit for the year and worked with our teachers to return and reshelve the books. Looking forward to returning to these Good Fit Books next year in kindergarten!]]> 2022-12-01 03:13:13 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2404544523 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2406229173 Preschool and Year 1 were visited by Liz, a dental hygienist and educator, who led a fun and interactive lesson to explore teeth brushing, healthy eating, and other dental hygiene habits. The Bluebells were delighted to be gifted a dental showbag to share with families at home.]]> 2022-12-02 06:16:30 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2406229173 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2413940966 The Bluebells were building their hand and finger strength across many playful learning experiences today, including making playdough gardens, rolling and squeezing magic-clay sculptures, and helping Sarah take blue-tac displays off the walls. All great for building strength and stamina for writing!]]> 2022-12-08 06:31:49 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2413940966 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2413947957 There were lots of opportunities to help with classroom packup today!]]> 2022-12-08 06:39:45 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2413947957 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2413970569 Check your child's bag for a second copy of the transition Padlet QR code to check out more pictures from our kindergarten transitions program.]]> 2022-12-08 07:06:13 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2413970569 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421583912 2022-12-15 08:54:23 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421583912 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421584380 2022-12-15 08:54:51 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421584380 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421585350 2022-12-15 08:55:29 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421585350 sarahgrainger https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421586343 2022-12-15 08:56:47 UTC https://padlet.com/sarahgrainger/Bluebells/wish/2421586343