Sugartree Stories - Latest News & Updates

“Wings of Wonder: The Puriri Moth’s Story on Our Walls”
Malcolm Clarke Malcolm Clarke

“Wings of Wonder: The Puriri Moth’s Story on Our Walls”

At Sugartree Lane Preschool in Auckland City, our tamariki helped create a magical mural with artist FLOX and the Natural Paint Co., celebrating the life cycle of the Puriri moth. With stencils, eco-friendly paints, and curious eyes watching, the mural blossomed into a storybook on our walls, complete with a wētā, a monarch butterfly, and a mokarekare moth, chosen by the children themselves. A joyful reminder that learning at our daycare in Auckland is full of creativity, wonder, and connection to nature.

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Colour, Creativity, and Community: Highlights from Our Paint & Play Day
Malcolm Clarke Malcolm Clarke

Colour, Creativity, and Community: Highlights from Our Paint & Play Day

On Sunday, Sugartree Lane Preschool transformed into a vibrant, sensory-rich art studio for their Paint & Play event hosted by ‘The Creative Rume’. 

Toddlers and older kids (including adults) enjoyed a messy play morning, including chalk drawing, ceramic painting, felt-tip pen drawing, watercolour, stencils with paint and roller paint fun! Along with beautiful food, delicious coffee from ‘The Coffee Store” and face painting by Rainbow Rascals. 

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“Puppets, Please!”: How Pretend Play Teaches for Real!
Malcolm Clarke Malcolm Clarke

“Puppets, Please!”: How Pretend Play Teaches for Real!

At Sugartree Lane we treasure every moment a child’s eyes widen in wonder. Puppets are simple props, yet they open grand stages where language, empathy, and curiosity dance together. Next time you see a tiny hand wiggle a felt character across the mat, remember you are looking at much more than play. You are watching learning take flight.

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Playdough Play and Recipes
Malcolm Clarke Malcolm Clarke

Playdough Play and Recipes

Discover the benefits of playdough in early childhood learning—boosting creativity, fine motor skills, and sensory play at SugarTree Lane Preschool.

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Mānawatia a Matariki!
Malcolm Clarke Malcolm Clarke

Mānawatia a Matariki!

Creative & Educational Matariki Activities to try:

Crafting: Make Matariki crafts like paper kites, star decorations, or even a collage with recycled materials. Create a Matariki display by cutting out stars, moons, and other symbols of water, reflecting the theme of the year. 

Storytelling: Read or listen to Matariki stories with children, learning about the cultural significance of the event. 

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MUSIC MONDAYS
Malcolm Clarke Malcolm Clarke

MUSIC MONDAYS

At SugarTree Lane Preschool, we believe in the power of music as a vital component of child development. Our experienced teachers incorporate music into daily activities, creating a nurturing environment that enhances learning through rhythm and melody. We celebrate inclusivity, ensuring every child engages with music in a way that resonates with their unique learning style. Additionally, our focus on nutrition supports cognitive function, allowing children to thrive both academically and emotionally. By fostering a love for music, we prepare our students for future successes in every facet of their lives.

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“Early Learning Matters: A Welcome from Sugartree Lane Preschool”
Malcolm Clarke Malcolm Clarke

“Early Learning Matters: A Welcome from Sugartree Lane Preschool”

Sugartree Lane Preschool is more than a childcare centre. It’s a place where tiny humans are respected, supported, and celebrated. Where creativity is encouraged, kindness is modelled, and the big feelings of little people are handled with care. We know how much trust it takes to hand your child over each morning, and we don’t take that lightly.

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