Kindergarten Newsletter

Our 4 Year Old Extended Day class students had an exciting and educational experience attending a fire safety activity at Noah’s Ark. During their visit, they learned valuable life skills, such as how to safely evacuate in the event of a fire and the importance of the "stop, drop, and roll" technique. The children enthusiastically participated in hands-on learning as they role-played being firefighters, donning hats and gear while pretending to extinguish flames. This engaging activity not only deepened their understanding of fire safety but also encouraged them to be knowledgeable and principled learners, taking responsibility for their own safety and well-being. The experience was both fun and empowering, leaving the children feeling more confident and prepared to handle emergencies.

Our 3 Year Old Extended Day class recently visited Hung Hom Station to explore the fascinating new Station Rail Voyage exhibit. Through an engaging guided tour, the children had the opportunity to learn more about the unique features of MTR trains and stations, sparking their curiosity about transportation and travel. They were thrilled to experience what it was like to be passengers on an MTR train from the 1980s and even got to explore a double-decker train that once traveled between Hong Kong and China. This hands-on experience allowed the children to be inquirers as they asked questions and discovered how trains have evolved over the years. It also helped them develop their open-minded and reflective attributes, as they connected past and present modes of transportation in a meaningful and exciting way. The visit was both educational and memorable, leaving the children with new knowledge and a sense of wonder about the world around them.

Our 2-Year-Old Class recently embarked on an exciting milestone as they went on their very first unaccompanied field trip! Traveling on a school bus to the Hung Hom Ferry Pier, the children had a wonderful time exploring and observing their surroundings. They were thrilled to see boats and ferries up close and were especially amazed to get an up-close look at a real working fire truck! Along the way, the children eagerly looked out for different types of transport, spotting buses, trucks, minibuses, and trains. This special outing not only nurtured their curiosity about the world around them but also encouraged their growing independence and sense of adventure. It was truly a memorable day for our youngest learners!

We hope everyone had a fantastic time at Family Fun Day! It was truly heartwarming to see so many families come together to enjoy a day filled with laughter, connection, and joyful activities. From exciting games to shared moments of exploration, the day was a wonderful celebration of our community. Seeing parents, children, and friends bonding and creating lasting memories made the event extra special. Thank you to everyone who joined us — we hope you enjoyed yourselves as much as we enjoyed having you there!

The 4 and 5 Year Old classes had a fantastic time celebrating St. Patrick’s Day! The children came dressed in green, adding a festive touch to the day as they embraced the holiday spirit. They enjoyed engaging in themed activities and were especially delighted to indulge in a special treat—green ice cream! The class was filled with laughter and excitement as they learned about this fun cultural celebration while sharing joyful moments together. It was a memorable day for our little students, filled with smiles and a whole lot of green!

Our 4 and 5-Year-Old Classes had a captivating experience watching a traditional Chinese puppet show performed by the talented 飛鵬木偶團 Sky Bird Puppet Group as part of their IB PYP Unit How We Express Ourselves. The children were mesmerised by the intricate movements of the puppets and the storytelling that brought Chinese culture and traditions to life. This enriching performance allowed the students to explore how people use art forms like puppetry to express ideas, emotions, and cultural heritage. The show sparked curiosity and inspired creativity, encouraging the children to reflect on how they, too, can express themselves through different mediums.

Our Extended Day classes wrapped up March with a fun and colourful Crazy Hair Day! The children came to school sporting their wildest, wackiest, and most creative hairstyles, from rainbow-coloured hair to gravity-defying spikes and everything in between. It was wonderful to see everyone getting involved and embracing the spirit of the day with such enthusiasm. The classrooms were filled with laughter and excitement as everyone admired each other's crazy hair creations. It was a fantastic way to end the month on a high note, celebrating creativity and having fun together!

Our Playgroup and 2-Year-Old Class students have excitedly begun their Unit on Transportation, diving into a world of vehicles and travel! They’ve been learning how to use an Octopus Card, role-playing as bus passengers and drivers, and engaging in imaginative activities that bring transportation to life. The children have been creating transport-themed arts and crafts, exploring sensory play with construction vehicles and sand, and having fun with buses and cars in shaving foam. They’ve also been role-playing as immigration officials and travellers at the airport, adding a global travel twist to their learning. Through these hands-on activities, they are discovering the characteristics of different vehicles and how they help us in our daily lives. This unit is full of exploration, creativity, and excitement!

Our 3 Year Old Classes recently concluded their IB PYP Unit How We Organize Ourselves in an exciting way by planning their very own journeys! This hands-on activity gave the children the opportunity to apply what they had learned about organizing and decision-making, sparking their imaginations as they created their travel plans. With this unit wrapped up, they have now embarked on their fourth Unit of the year, How We Express Ourselves. In this unit, the children are exploring the central idea that we can express ourselves through performance and the arts. They are already diving into creative activities, and will be discovering new ways to communicate ideas, emotions, and stories through dance, music, drama, and visual art. It’s an inspiring start to a journey of self-expression!

Our 4 and 5 Year Old Classes have embarked on their final IB PYP Unit of the year, How We Express Ourselves, where they are inquiring into how stories express ideas, feelings, and culture. To begin this exciting journey, the children have been exploring beloved fairy tales such as Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, The Three Little Pigs, and The Ugly Duckling. Through these timeless tales, they are uncovering themes of bravery, kindness, and perseverance, while also exploring the cultural significance and emotions embedded within the stories. This unit is sparking their imaginations and helping them to understand how storytelling is a powerful way to communicate and connect with others. It’s a magical start to their exploration of stories!

Sleep is a fundamental aspect of a child's development, impacting their physical health, emotional well-being, and cognitive abilities. As parents and caregivers, understanding the significance of adequate sleep can help foster a nurturing environment that promotes healthy growth and learning.

Why Sleep is Crucial for Children

Brain Development: Sleep plays a vital role in brain development, particularly in young children. During sleep, the brain processes information, consolidates memories, and supports learning. Insufficient sleep can hinder cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and problem-solving skills.

Emotional Regulation: Adequate sleep is essential for emotional stability. Children who do not get enough rest may exhibit mood swings, increased irritability, and difficulty managing stress. Studies have shown that children who sleep for 10 hours or more each night demonstrate better socio-emotional behaviours and academic outcomes.

Physical Growth: Sleep is crucial for physical growth and development. Growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep, making it essential for children to get enough rest to support their physical health.

Behavioural Impact: Lack of sleep can lead to behavioural issues, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulties with attention. These symptoms can sometimes be misdiagnosed as ADHD or other behavioural disorders.

Immune Function: Sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system, making children more susceptible to illnesses such as colds and the flu. A well-rested child is better equipped to fend off infections and maintain overall health.

Recommended Sleep Durations

The National Sleep Foundation provides guidelines on the recommended amount of sleep for children based on their age:

0 to 3 Months: 14 – 17 hours

4 to 11 Months: 12 – 15 hours

1 to 2 Years: 11 – 14 hours

3 to 5 Years: 10 – 13 hours

Tips for Promoting Healthy Sleep Habits

Establish a Routine: Create a consistent bedtime routine that helps signal to your child that it’s time to wind down. This could include activities like reading a book, taking a bath, or listening to calming music.

Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted by devices can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep.

Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Ensure that your child's bedroom is conducive to sleep. This includes keeping the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.

Encourage Physical Activity: Regular physical activity during the day can help children fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. However, avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime.

Prioritising sleep for young children is essential for their overall health and development. By understanding the importance of adequate sleep and implementing healthy sleep habits, parents can help their children thrive both physically and emotionally.

Bedtime Book Suggestions

(Suggested Chinese books can be found on the Chinese version of this newsletter)

We are pleased to invite you to our Parent Workshop The Dirt on Dirt: The Importance of Messy Play.

Date: Thursday, April 24

Time: 8:45am - 9:45am

Venue: Kindergarten Campus Music Room

Presenter: Ms. Olivia (Ladybugs Class English Teacher)

This workshop will provide valuable insights into the importance of messy play. Ms. Olivia will also guide participants in making some simple messy play materials. So get ready to get your hands dirty!

Please note that participation is limited to 20 participants. To secure your place, kindly complete the Parent Workshop - The Dirt on Dirt: The Importance of Messy Play Sign Up form by Tuesday, April 22.

We are delighted to showcase our students' remarkable achievements beyond our classroom walls. At Kingston, we believe in celebrating the diverse talents and interests of our young learners as they explore and excel in various activities.

If you would like to share your child’s talents with us please fill in the Google Form below:

https://forms.gle/RyJjm94PfiNxfVFi7

Stay connected with our school community by following us on social media! Join us on Facebook, Instagram, and RedNote for updates, event highlights, and a glimpse into our daily activities. We love sharing our exciting moments with you and fostering a vibrant online community!

Email: enquiry@kingston.edu.hk

Website: www.kingston.edu.hk

Address: 12-14 Cumberland Road, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong

Phone: 23379049