Fun resources for tamariki during lockdown

Kia ora everyone, 
We hope that the first week of lockdown has been a time for you to rest, enjoy some time with your whānau and potter around your homes and gardens. 
Of course, the uncertainty of knowing how long this lockdown may last, as well as other difficulties in managing work and childcare, we acknowledge that this can be a very difficult time for many. 
Later on this week we will share more resources for those feeling isolated and needing additional support. 

For today, on this overcast Tuesday morning when we would usually be at The Rose Centre setting up our popular Preschool Play sessions, we wanted to share something for all the parents and caregivers doing the admirable work of trying to occupy their little ones from the confines and safety of their homes.

Keep scrolling for a list of resources, websites and activities to add to your toolkit.
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STORYTIME by RNZ

New Zealand stories, audiobooks and music for all ages. A great way to engage children's imaginations and give you a chance to cook dinner (or sit down with a coffee!)

https://storytime.rnz.co.nz
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Devonport Library Rhymetime with June

We all know the captivating June from Devonport Library, who engages all our tamariki on a weekly basis with her beautiful voice and great sense of fun.
June has recorded 7 Rhymetime sessions in previous lockdowns, which are all available on the Devonport Library Facebook page, under the video section.
Each video times in around 20-25 minutes, so grab your favourite teddy and settle in for a fun morning activity. 




OverDrive for Kids and Teens 

Auckland Libraries also has their online portal OverDrive where you can browse and check out a huge range of eBooks from your device, using your library card. 
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My Lockdown Diary

The Lockdown Diary is a free download from artist and designer Stephen McCarthy that aims to help give kids a chance to talk through their eyes.
There’s some prompts and activities but loads of space for kids to write and draw how they’re doing and how they’re feeling.

Think of it as a memento to the future so one day in 20 years, they’ll find it hidden in an old cupboard and remember how strong and resilient they were through this.

It’s also a good conversation starter, and can hopefully help give you as a parent or caregiver a small insight into your young ones mind and help start a chat about things.
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Cosmic Kids Yoga on Youtube 

Cosmic Kids provides free yoga and mindfulness meditations on Youtube that kids LOVE, so they can enjoy the physical, mental and emotional benefits early in life. 

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They also have a "30 Days of Play" pack you can download for free for more activities and ideas.

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Playcentre Aotearoa Resources and Recipes for Play

Playcentre Aotearoa has some great resources on their website with lots of ideas for active play,  box play, science experiments, messy and water play and so much more.

Play Resources listed here.
Play Recipes listed here.

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We have so many more wonderful ideas and resources to share with you, so check back in next week for updates!
In the meantime, take care of yourselves, follow all the Alert Level 4 Guidance and we will be seeing you all back at Hōtoke Preschool Play before we know it ! 
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