ELP’s learners explore ways of inspiring young minds to give children the best possible start – improving their English along the way.

Our Health and Wellbeing course at our Palmerston North centre kicked off the second half of lessons with a visit from the Ruahine Kindergarten Association (RKA).

Helen Van den Ende, ELP’s teacher, says it was fantastic to have facilitators Maddy Peters-Algie and Sally Donovan visit the class.

“Learners now understand about kindergartens in New Zealand.”  

“They also talked about the importance of play to stimulate imagination and brain development in children.”

Helen says class members then had the opportunity for a hands-on session with a range of toys and games. “Towers were built, playdough was modelled, puzzles were finished and games played!”

“Maddy and Sally really brought to life the kindergarten’s holistic approach of empowering kids to learn and grow.”

Helen says people learnt that many toys and games could be made at home to be used with children and grandchildren.

After this inspiring time, the class was joined by Katrina Gemmell and Victor Romero, recreation advisors from Sport Manawatu, for the second half of the lesson.

“We headed out into The Square for some brain gymnastics,” says Helen.

“Developing hand-eye coordination resulted in tennis balls flying, some serious concentration and most importantly, lots of laughing!”

ELP’s thanks go to the Ruahine Kindergarten Association and Sport Manawatu for working with our learners to help them settle comfortably into the Palmy community and to learn more English as they do.

Ruahine Kindergarten Association www.ruahinekindergartens.org.nz

Sport Manawatu www.sportmanawatu.org.nz

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