Kathryn Hart & Annette Sheehy, Tauranga Kindergarten Association NZ,
Workshop title: It’s more than a “nice time in the Bush”
As early childhood education practitioners on the journey of ‘Nature Based Education” we need to know Why we are engaging in nature based education, How nature based education links to our teaching philosophy and pedagogical values. What are the expected outcomes and goals for children?
Based on our professional opportunities and experience we will explore with participants what nature based education looks like in an Aotearoa New Zealand context.
Pennie Brownlie, NZ [Babywise. Accomplished author & early childhood educator]
Workshop Title – Calling All Earthlings...
Humans have evolved over millennia in relationship with the Earth. We are a part of the Unity called the Biosphere. Accordingly, the Earth Mother is the number one 'curriculum' for all Earthlings. She offers more 'subjects', 'projects', 'extensions' and 'themes' with more subtleties, beauty, harmony and elegance than any one person could exhaust in a life-time. It is time for responsible Earthlings to stop raising children in captivity, and to get outside and play. In this workshop we explore just what that might be like in practice.
Marcie Oltman, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Workshop title - Real Experiences for Real Kids: How to bring authenticity into your nature programme
Young children want, need and deserve authentic experiences with real, natural objects. In this age of technological wonders, it is easy to forget the importance of experiencing something real—baking bread from scratch or eating snow peas right off the vine. Come and discover easy ways to bring real textures, smells, tastes, and experiences into—and out of-- your classrooms.
Genevieve Simperingham, NZ, [Peaceful Parenting Institute]
Workshop Title: How to foster Emotional Intellegence in your Centre & why that means a happier learning environment
With the tips and insights you’ll gain in this workshop, you’ll return to work inspired and ready to approach challenges amongst children with more confidence and a revitalized enthusiasm.
We now know that emotional intelligence reduces violence, increases self-esteem and social skills and provides the best foundation for learning and development.
Mandy Sunlight, NZ, [Tutor in flax weaving, a tikanga (protocols) Maori perspective at maraes]
Workshop Title - Traditional Flax weaving
Come & learn traditional skills in flax weaving, so you may pass this knowledge on to the tamariki. Mandy will provide a variety of traditional weaving materials to work with. These include : korari ( flax ), kuta ( water reed ), pingao ( sand sedge ),ti kouka ( cabbage tree ), paua shell, other shells, leaves and feathers. She will demonstrate muka ( flax fibre ) extraction, provide many weaving books and photo albums to peruse and teach simple, basic weaving of putiputi ( flowers ) and bracelets and invite participants to engage with all of these opportunities.
