Dear Parents

Next week, we’re thrilled to celebrate a special tradition in our classroom—Special Person’s Day! 

It’s a wonderful time when we invite someone dear to each child to join us in class and experience the joy of learning and playing alongside our little ones. We eagerly look forward to welcoming these special guests, who will have the chance to share in the excitement of our daily activities and make cherished memories with the children. 

We can’t wait to see the smiles and laughter that these visits will bring!

Special Person's Day

Special Person’s Day is around the corner and our little ones would like to invite a special person to spend some time with them for a fun activity at school. Please see the allocated dates, times and classes below:

27 August: Special Person’s Day Grade 000 11:00-12:00 (Tea and Coffee for Adults in Foyer) 

28 August: Special Person’s Day Grade 00 11:00-12:00 (Tea and Coffee for Adults in Foyer)

29 August: Special Person’s Day Grade R 11:00-12:00 (Tea and Coffee for Adults in Foyer) 

30 August: Special Person’s Day Crackerjacks 10:30 - 11:30 (Tea and Coffee for Adults in Foyer) 

Report Feedback Meetings 

We encourage every parent to make the time to book and diarise a report feedback meeting. This is a very important meeting in terms of learning more about how your child is progressing and finding out more about their days at school. It is also a wonderful opportunity to have the teacher’s undivided attention and really focus on your child. It is a vital aspect of the home-school partnership and it greatly assists each child’s development and progress when we work together. Please click on the class links below to choose a preferred date and time.

Tiny Tots 1 Report Feedback meetings
Tiny Tots 2 Report Feedback meetings
Tots 1 Report Feedback meetings 
Tots 2 Report Feedback meetings 

Piglet's House Report Feedback meeting 

Tigger's House Report Feedback meetings 

Pooh Bear's House Report Feedback meetings 

Roo's House Report Feedback meetings 

Kanga's House Report Feedback meetings 

Owl's House Report Feedback meetings 

Rabbit's House Report Feedback meetings 

A Library Adventure

Health

Music and movement in the early years 

Superstar Hand Washers

Registered Nurse: Amy Dolley

Grade 4 PBL 

Today, the Grade 4 learners had an exciting opportunity to visit the Grade R learners during their robotics lesson. They led a Project-Based Learning activity centred around a farm, using VC goggles to immerse the little ones in a vivid, interactive experience. This creative approach brought learning to life, making it both fun and engaging for the little ones. 

2025 DATES

Please note that there has been a slight change to the 2025 dates indicated in blue below:

Provisional dates for 2025
Summer Quarter: 20 January – 28 March
Autumn Quarter: 08 April- 25 June
*Mid-term break: 29 April – 2 May
Winter Quarter: 23 July – 02 Oct
Spring Quarter: 14 October – 05 December

Conclusion

Balancing Structure and Freedom: The Secret to Setting Boundaries with Toddlers

Toddlerhood is an incredible journey—full of curiosity, discovery, and those beautiful “firsts.” But let’s be honest, it can also be one of the most challenging stages. The constant boundary testing, tricky behaviours, and power struggles can leave even the most patient parent or teacher feeling overwhelmed.

We’re talking about those bedtime battles that need 100 kisses, the “I need a snack!” demands when dinner is 5 minutes away, and those meltdowns that come out of nowhere. These moments are a natural part of your toddler's development, reflecting their growing sense of autonomy and their exploration of boundaries.

The Secret to Setting Boundaries—and Sticking to Them

Setting boundaries is crucial in guiding toddlers through these early years. It’s not about imposing strict rules but about providing a framework that helps them feel secure and understand expectations. Here are some key strategies to balance structure with freedom effectively:

1. Consistency is Key: Toddlers thrive on routine and predictability. Consistent boundaries help them feel safe and know what to expect. If a boundary is set, it should be maintained to prevent confusion and ensure that the child understands the limits.

2. Be Clear and Simple: Toddlers are still learning language and comprehension. When setting boundaries, use clear and simple language that they can understand. For example, instead of saying, “It’s bedtime soon,” say, “It’s time to put away your toys and go to bed.”

3. Offer Choices: Giving toddlers some control can reduce power struggles. For example, instead of dictating what they wear, offer two options and let them choose. This helps them feel empowered while still staying within the boundaries you set.

4. Stay Calm and Patient: It’s normal for toddlers to test boundaries, and their behaviour can be challenging. When you remain calm and patient, it reinforces the boundary without escalating the situation. If a meltdown occurs, take a deep breath and address the behaviour calmly.

5. Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate and encourage good behavior with positive reinforcement. Praise them when they follow boundaries and use rewards to reinforce positive actions. This helps them understand the benefits of adhering to limits.

6. Flexibility Within Limits: While consistency is essential, being flexible within boundaries can also be beneficial. Sometimes, adapting boundaries to fit the situation or allowing minor deviations can help maintain harmony and show understanding.

7. Model Behavior: Toddlers learn a lot by watching adults. Model the behaviour you expect from them. Show them how to handle frustration, make decisions, and respect boundaries through your own actions.

Remember, boundaries are meant to guide and protect toddlers as they explore and learn, not to restrict their natural development. The key is finding the right balance between structure and freedom, allowing toddlers to feel secure while still having room to grow and discover.

Embrace the journey with patience and understanding, and you’ll find that these challenging moments become valuable opportunities for learning and growth for both you and your toddler.

Enjoy the weekend!

Riëtte Pieterse
Principal: Christopher Robin Pre-Primary
E-mail: rpieterse@parklands.co.za
Tel: 0861 EDUCATE

LINKS TO THE BLOGS FROM THE PREPARATORY AND SECONDARY FACULTY

JP: https://jpblog.parklands.co.za

SP: https://spblog.parklands.co.za

Sec: https://secblog.parklands.co.za

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