Tailem Bend Kindy teams up with Foodbank to fuel kids’ mornings
Tailem Bend Kindergarten and Rural Care have connected with Foodbank to provide warm brekky each morning - see what else they get up to each day.
Ever wondered what a day of kindy looks like for children in the Murraylands these days?
Well children at Tailem Bend Kindergarten and Rural Care are starting their days with a warm breakfasts, thanks to a partnership with Foodbank.
From the moment children arrive they're treated to a delicious breakfast club.
Educator Jody Hall, is the master chef of kindy brekky, as she knows how important it is to start the day.
"After connecting with Foodbank, we now receive regular food deliveries —and it’s a joy to see the children so happy with our oat pancakes, pumpkin scones, spaghetti, baked beans and cheese toasties.”
Parents said the breakfast club takes the pressure off busy mornings and gives children a calm, welcoming start to their day.
“It’s such a relief knowing my child has a warm meal and friendly faces waiting,” one parent said.
“It sets such a positive tone for the day.”
Educator Angela Mason proudly showing the Kindy Kindness Jar and the relaxation spot after lunch. Photos: TB Kindy.
After lunch, children have a dedicated period for rest and relaxation, with dimmed lights, soft music, and mats for older children to lie down while educators read or offer gentle support.
Director Meagan Wynn Pahl said the routine helps children regulate their emotions and maintain focus throughout the day.
"The quiet period helps children recharge, regulate emotions, and stay focused for the rest of the day," Ms Wynn Pahl said.
The kindy also introduced a kindness jar, where moments of empathy and care observed in the classroom are recorded and shared with the group.
Educator Angela Mason said it's a beautiful initiative, created by teacher Rachel Keller.
“When educators see children showing kindness, we write it on a note and place it in the jar," Ms Mason said.
"Later, we share these moments at group time, now the children are excited to show kindness to one another."
Outdoor play at the kindy. Photos: TB Kindy
Outdoor play is central to the curriculum, with mud kitchens, sandpits, water play, painting, and bug hunting forming part of daily activities.
Educators said limiting screen time allows children to develop resilience, curiosity, and practical problem-solving skills.
Inclusivity is another key focus with several staff members have experience working with children with special needs.
"With many of my family members being autistic, I understand the challenges parents face, I treat each child like family and am here to support them," Ms Hall said.
Educators have taken students on excursions to the ANZAC memorial, local hardware stores, and nearby landmarks such as the Talking Tree and the Uneek Animals display.
Educator Chelsea created the book Rural Care, Rural Care, What Do You See? Photo: TB Kindy
Inspired by Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, educator Chelsea Coombe wrote and illustrated her own storybook, Rural Care, Rural Care, What Do You See?.
Featuring children and staff, it helps little ones learn letters while seeing themselves reflected in a story they love – making learning fun.
- Disclosure: the author if this story works at Tailem Bend kindy and rural care.
