A Day at Nara

No day is really typical at Nara as our routine is flexible and may change to support the interests of the children. However, we do know that children respond well to a basic routine structured around play, organised activities, meals and rest. Here is an outline of the main events in a typical day at Nara.

Nara is open from 7.30am to 6pm
Note that the Kindergarten program goes from 8:30am to 1:30pm and then some children stay at Nara for long day care.

7.30am-8.30am: We greet and welcome the children on arrival at the centre. During this time, we normally begin with “Family Grouping”, where all children arriving at the centre congregate in one room and participate in a range of programmed activities for mixed ages. During this time children will then separate into their individual rooms as staffing and child numbers require.

8.30am-9am: Morning Circle - All children and educators gather in a circle in their room. Circle time may include sharing of news, which helps to children to settle into the group. In Koala and Wombat rooms, children may take turns to “show and share” a special object or story with the group. Circle time is also an opportunity for formal learning, where we can incorporate children’s interests into planned activities.

9am-10am: Morning Tea - At Nara we have “progressive morning tea” where the children choose when they would like to eat. (For more information on meals at our centre please read our weekly Meal Planner in the hallway near the kitchen).

9am-11am: Play-based learning experiences and activities - Simultaneous indoor and outdoor programs. During this time the children engage in various experiences and activities. Some may be prepared and planned as well as children’s spontaneous learning. Play based learning begins with the children’s interests (including those communicated to us by parents), skills and strengths.

11am-12.15pm: Lunchtime - A nutritious cooked lunch is served for children in long day care. Kindergarten children bring their own lunch to build their independence as they prepare for the transition to school. Children and educators sit together at tables to eat. We learn about health and hygiene, and develop good social eating habits as we eat lunch together.

12.15pm-1.20pm: Reading and stories - As the children settle after lunch, they enjoy exploring books on their own as well as listening to the educators read to them. This gives the children an opportunity to develop their literacy skills and love of books.

[Kindergarten only] 1.20pm-1.30pm: Preparing for the end of the kinder program - At the end of the kinder program the children take responsibility for packing their art and projects from the day into their bags and packing up their personal belongings. (Some children stay at Nara for long day care after the end of the kindergarten program).

[Long day care] 1.20pm-3pm: Sleep and rest time - When all the children have finished lunch and exploring books, it is rest time. At this time the children that do not sleep have the opportunity to rest their body and mind with calm music, and to do quiet activities.

3pm-5.30pm: Play-based learning experiences and activities - Simultaneous indoor and outdoor programs. During this time the children engage in various experiences and activities.

3.30pm: Afternoon Tea - Afternoon tea is served, indoors or outdoor, with an informal approach so children can continue indoor and outdoor play-based learning programs.

4.30pm – The integrated afternoon program begins after 5.30pm, where children again assemble in one room and participate in activities for mixed ages.

5.30pm – A light snack (not dinner) is provided for children who require it.

6pm: Centre closes.