
ECD Practitioner’s Newsletter – December 2024

CELEBRATING YOUR EXCELLENCE IN 2024
On the 3rd December 2024, we gathered to celebrate the hard work and amazing progress of ECD practitioners this year. Noluthando Moshesh from Focus on Ithemba opened the ceremony with inspiring words of encouragement to teachers and principals, emphasising the importance of getting parents involved in the learning progress.
One of the most important awards was for the preschools that are excellent in developing school ready children. These were Knysna Educare Centre; Klanke Kalante Speelgroepie; Masithandane; Bambino Creche and Mamma Mia Preschool.
Congratulations to each ECD practitioner that received an award. And if you did not receive an award this year, please know that your dedication to the children in your care does not go unnoticed.


AND NOW, IT’S TIME TO REST AND RECHARGE!
Congratulations, you’ve made it through another tough year. The classroom is quiet, the kids are out, and now it’s time for you to take a well-deserved break. As an ECD practitioner, we know how hard you work to make a difference with limited resources and support. This holiday season is your chance to hit the reset button and recharge your batteries. Here’s how to make the most of your time off. You deserve it!

Prioritise Rest: If you’ve been running on fumes, now is the time to catch up. No more alarm clocks blaring at 5 a.m. This holiday season, let your body wake up when it’s ready. Forget about rushed mornings and the chaotic start of a school day. Give yourself permission to sleep in, take naps, and let your body fully recharge.
Self-Care Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive: A bubble bath, a movie marathon on your couch, or finally finishing that book you started months ago—these are all simple ways to unwind. Choose activities that make you feel good and help you relax. Whether it’s listening to music, journaling, or simply taking a moment for yourself, self-care doesn’t have to break the bank to be effective.
Unplug from Work: Emails, messages, and to-do lists? Forget about them. It’s time for a work detox. Set boundaries and let go of the pressure to respond immediately. As teacher, it can be tempting to stay on top of every work-related task, but this break is for YOU. Turn off your notifications and focus on your mental well-being. The world won’t fall apart in a few days, and you’ll be able to come back to your learners and your classroom with a refreshed mindset.
Celebrate Your Strength: You’ve been doing the work of a superhero all year, even if you don’t always get the recognition you deserve. Whether it’s dancing in your living room, baking a cake, or simply taking a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come, celebrate yourself. Surviving another school year is no small feat. You’re doing amazing things, and it’s time to reward yourself for your hard work.

Get Your Body Moving: Exercise doesn’t require a gym membership or fancy equipment. Go for a walk in your neighborhood, chase your dog around the yard, or take a dance break in your living room. Movement helps get your blood pumping and your mind clear. Whether it’s stretching, a light jog, or simply walking around your block, keep your body moving during your break. Physical activity boosts your mood and helps clear away the stress of the school year.
Reconnect with Family and Friends: As a teacher, you often put your learners first—sometimes to the detriment of your own relationships. Use this time to reconnect with family and friends. These connections are crucial for your mental health, and chances are, the people who love you will be excited to spend time with you. Whether it’s sharing a meal at home, chatting over the phone, or visiting a local park, investing in these relationships is invaluable.
Find Your Quiet Space: Take a few minutes each day to breathe or just sit in silence. You can take a mindful walk in a park, stare at the clouds, or practice deep breathing exercises from the comfort of your home. Even five or ten minutes of quiet reflection can have a powerful impact on your mental health and help you feel more centered as you prepare for the new year.
Enjoy the Holidays—Guilt-Free: It’s the holidays—eat the cookies, sip the wine, but maybe add a salad somewhere along the food line. Try and keep a balance, right? The holidays are about enjoyment, not guilt, so eat, drink, and be merry in whatever way feels good to you.

And Lastly, The KET team wishes you a spectacular Festive break. Thank you for everything you do!

We will be closed from the 13th of December 2024 and reopen on the 13th of January 2025, so that our team can also rest and recharge. We are excited to keep working with all of you amazing ECD Practitioners in the new year, ensuring that no child in Knysna is left behind!