When we sit down together for lunch, there is quite a bit of learning happening. Tamariki develop all important hygiene skills when they wash their hands prior to eating. We regularly discuss this with the children so they are aware of the reason's behind this process and the need to keep their hands clean when eating.
Independence can be built in so many areas throughout a child's day at Kindy. One of the many ways to learn to take ownership is with your belongings, and in this case lunchboxes and drink bottles. Once hands are washed and dried, tamariki collect their lunchbox and drink bottle before finding an all important seat. When a child's lunchbox is clearly named, this also provides an opportunity them to learn to recognise their name, which is one of the early literacy steps. Finding a seat is an opportunity to make a decision. Children are able to make up their own mind about who they would like to sit next to, the colour chair they would like and the position around the table that is best for them.
When seated, children naturally start to refine their conversation and listening skills. The learn about the reciprocal nature of conversations, while deepening their relationships and knowledge of their peers. The feeling of being satisfied is something that can be a little tricky in children. By encouraging them to regulate their own hunger, tamariki are empowered to make decisions about their body, while learning to recognise the various signals their body is sending them.
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