The Kindergarten Fair has been with us for as long as I can remember. Year after year, it has woven itself quietly into the fabric of our school life, becoming a tradition cherished not only by the little ones but by parents, grandparents, and teachers alike. What makes it so rare and precious is that it is one of the few events designed entirely with the Kindergarten child at its heart.
This year, I had the privilege to re-experience it through the eyes of my grandson. I remember, as a young mother, how I sewed and prepared for the Kindergarten Fair and how the baton has continuously been passed from hand to hand. Our parents and teachers still work industriously in preparation for this special day – sewing, crafting, and creating almost every prize, trinket, and treasure by hand.
The games are set up in such a way that little hands and feet can safely engage with ease, and we can all delight in the fun right alongside our little people. The joy does not only lie in the playing of these games, but in the sense of reward and amazement – coming away with a prize that feels like treasure won on a ‘grand adventure’. And of course, we cannot forget the Golden Matchbox Castle – another tradition as old as the fair itself, perhaps even older, with each draw hiding its own secret surprise!
The older children were also treated to live puppet shows, brought to life by the Rainbow Puppet Theatre, telling Grimm’s fairy tales. And let me tell you, even as a grown-up, if you’ve never sat through a Rainbow Puppet Theatre performance, you are missing something special.
The Kindergarten Fair is more than games and prizes. The space is transformed and festively decorated to create an atmosphere that feels enchanting and celebratory. At the heart of it, the greatest gift is of all is giving children the freedom to play. They can take time out, dig in the sandpits, climb ropes, and explore – not one empty sandpit was found on the day!
For just a few hours, one is reminded of what childhood is meant to be – innocent, wholesome, and free.
That is the greatest treasure the Kindergarten Fair brings.
Nanette Snyckers
Dear Parents of the ECD and Community,
We would like to take a moment to express our HUGE GRATITUDE for helping make our Kindergarten Fair such a magical experience. We were also incredibly blessed with the most beautiful Spring weather day 🌸🌻🌺
Dear parents, you all worked, laughed, chatted, baked and cooked up a storm. Together we created a truly wonderful day for our children and you should all feel very proud.
Until next year…
Much love and thanks,
Sam Brown 🍁🍄🌻
On behalf of the ECD Teachers
