This morning, Mrs Hubbers kindly brought in her pet lamb Joseph, to visit both the Pre School and Junior School tamariki.

Lambs are such a strong symbol of the arrival of spring. These small frolicking creatures appeal to both adults and tamarik alike and have done so for generations.   We all got to help feed Joseph at 10am this morning - only 250mls because Mrs Hubbers said she is trying to wean him off milk.

Having animals, like a lamb visit the preschool,  gives our tamarik(children) the opportunity to observe, interact and learn about them.   These visits offer endless opportunities to teach tamariki about our relationship with animals and the care and respect they deserve. We do this with our preschool pet fish. It provides tamariki with real and meaningful connections  with the environment and the world around them. 

 As tamariki have experiences with animals, they learn about differences and similarities, needs (food, shelter, water and space). The relationships children form with animals is also beneficial and helps them to build a sense of empathy and respect.