The Basics-Channel was launched by Her Excellency, Professor, The Honourable Kate Warner, AC, Governor of Tasmania on Tuesday, 10 December at Dru Point playground in Margate.
The program encourages parents, families, friends and community members to engage with five basic educating principles with children three years and under. They are to Maximise love, manage stress; Talk, sing and point; Count, Group & Compare; Explore through Movement & Play; and Read & Discuss Stories.
Brain development during the first three years of life builds the foundations for learning and supports development of social and emotional skills, all of which provide lifelong benefits.
The launch included activities for the young children to enjoy and a new sign promoting the community education initiative was unveiled by Her Excellency and Kingborough Mayor, Cr Dean Winter.
“It was a great event to highlight this important initiative and to have Her Excellency’s support was greatly appreciated,” said Cr Winter.
“Congratulations to Principal Kate Slater and Maree Thompson from Margate Primary School for their hardwork and dedication in getting the program up and running.”
Over 180 people came to enjoy the fun, including community members, childcare providers, local businesses, community organisations and representatives from the Education Department, with the Commissioner for Children and Young People Leanne McLean. The interest in the initiative was strong and members of the community are now asking how they can be involved and help spread the five messages of The Basics in their local communities.
Principal Slater and Ms Thompson thanked the Mayor and the Kingborough Council for agreeing to host, organise and support the event. They would also like to thank Uncle Rodney Dillon for his speech and Welcome to Country, and grateful thanks to Her Excellency, Professor the Honourable Kate Warner, AC, Governor of Tasmania.
The Basics-Channel has launched a website which is now live at www.thebasicstasmania.com. There are five videos for each of the 5 Basics’ messages in the toolkit section of the website. If any member of the community would like to become a friend of The Basics-Channel or know more please email hello@thebasicstasmania.com.
