A Note From Sherryll

Time always seems to fly at the start of the year, and here we are at the start of Autumn again.

It’s great to see so much outdoor activity and so many excursions being highlighted on our Facebook page - connection to community, making the most of our Big Backyards, and kaitiakitanga are such strong points of difference for Kidsfirst, and the happy and excited faces of tamariki say more than words ever can.

It is an unsettling time as we watch and wait for Auckland’s COVID situation to become clearer, and many of us are feeling that uncertainty. I know that the practicalities are well under control in our kindergartens, and that alert level shifts are a well-oiled process now - and I appreciate all the work that goes in to ensure we are always ready, especially now that alert level changes are happening at very short notice. But I also know that the emotional toll can be hard, and I just wanted to acknowledge that these are not easy times. I’d also encourage you to take care of one another, and, as clichéd as it sounds now, to be kind. Tensions can run high in stressful times, and we don’t always know what else is going on in the lives of others that adds to the load.

If you haven't done so already, it's time to get thinking about talking about the Betterbecause Values Awards. Entries open on March 15th, so you've still got time to identify projects that you're proud of that could be winners. There will be some great prizes again this year, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors.

Kia haumaru te noho koutou katoa - stay safe, everybody Sherryll