MINDFULNESS, CONNECTION AND CHRISTMAS

By Mary-Jane Donnellan (Aurora Early Education Educational Leader)

It’s that time of the year again – where people gather together in preparation for Christmas. Christmas carols have well and truly started playing in the shops, and excitement is in the air. It’s a time for remembering the year that was, and to reflect on moments of gratitude. Christmas is a time where, as a community, we can spread the message of hope, peace and cheer.

One of our many moments of gratitude this year has been our connection with the residents and staff at PepperTree Hill Aged Care facility, where the kindergarten children have shared stories, songs, games, smiles and laughter with the residents. On our visit, a PepperTree Hill resident said “It is so wonderful seeing our residents smile with the children. These children have brought such a wonderful gift and into our place”.

With abundant richness of diversity, Aurora prides itself on the importance and impact of our multicultural diversity, our connections with one another and the wider community. We have embedded mindfulness practices in our programs, and especially as this year is drawing to a close, the importance of being aware of those around us is imperative. In our daily practices, we remind the children of the importance of “being present and in the moment”. In a time where we are surrounded by busyness, it is important to be mindful of ‘staying grounded’, and to see the beauty all around us. Take the time to ‘breath, embrace and feel’.

When we think about Christmas, we are often reminded of times with family and friends, delicious food, singing carols, and holidays. At Aurora Early Education, we are preparing through mindful connections, creative art expressions, and music which encourage each one to ‘focus and aware’ in our everyday routines.

Times of celebration connect us with our loved ones both near and far, and allows us the opportunity to ‘be a gift’ to others. Gifts connect us – when we greet someone with a smile, offer a helping hand, speak a kind word or give a warm embrace, we are offering a part of ourselves.

As 2019 draws to a close, let us be grateful for the year it has been. At Aurora, we have much to be grateful for… one of which is our new centre in Doncaster. Together our Rowville and Doncaster centres create a wonderful space for the children to learn, grow and develop in many ways. Our times spent together, building upon our relationships, creating ‘wow’ moments, and making an impact on the lives of the children, brings us all a deep sense of gratitude, and we look forward to the new year ahead in 2020.