Expressive Playtime

Overview

This 15-minute session for a group of 10 preschool students focuses on self-expression and creativity through art, using safe, tactile materials. Rooted in Te Whāriki, the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, the lesson supports holistic learning and development of identity, communication, and exploration with a strong emphasis on empowerment and belonging.

Curriculum Alignment

This lesson aligns with the following strands and goals from Te Whāriki:

• Exploration | Mana Aotūroa
  • Goal 3: Children develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, commitment, and joy in learning through exploring and imagining.
• Communication | Mana Reo
  • Goal 1: Children experience an environment where their language and symbols are valued and where they gain confidence and competence in communicating personal experience, feelings, and ideas.
• Well-being | Mana Atua
  • Goal 1: Children experience an environment where they are kept safe from harm and their health is nurtured.
• Contribution | Mana Tangata
  • Goal 1: Children experience an environment where they are encouraged to learn with and alongside others, foster a sense of family and community.
• Belonging | Mana Whenua
  • Goal 1: Children experience an environment where they feel a sense of belonging.

(Referencing Te Whāriki framework principles and strands ensures the lesson is age-appropriate and culturally responsive.)

Learning Objectives

By the end of the session, preschool children will be encouraged to:

• Explore and experiment with colours, shapes, and textures to express themselves visually.
• Develop fine motor skills by manipulating art materials.
• Communicate aspects of their identity through creating a simple self-portrait inspired by an image of themselves.
• Experience a sense of belonging by sharing their artwork in a supportive group setting.
• Build confidence and empowerment through decision-making in their creative process.

Materials Needed

• Large sheets of paper (one per child)
• Non-toxic finger paints and brushes
• Mirrors or printed photographs of each child’s face (teacher-prepared)
• Smocks or apron for protection
• Wet wipes or towels for cleaning hands

Lesson Plan Schedule

Time	Activity	Te Whāriki Learning Focus / Notes
0–3 minutes	Welcome and Introduction	Greet children, briefly discuss how we can use colours and shapes to show who we are; show mirror/photo to each child to focus attention on themselves (Belonging & Identity). Ensure environment and materials are safe and inviting (Well-being).
3–10 minutes	Creative Self-Portrait Painting	Children paint their own faces or features using finger paints on paper. Encourage freedom of expression and exploration (Exploration). Teacher models and supports fine motor skills (Communication & Exploration). Provide positive feedback and affirm uniqueness (Empowerment).
10–13 minutes	Sharing and Reflecting	Invite children to show their artwork to the group, describe their pieces if they want (Communication). Foster respect and appreciation for differences (Contribution & Belonging).
13–15 minutes	Clean-up and Closure	Guide cleaning hands gently and thank children for sharing their creativity and uniqueness; re-emphasise the significance of expressing who they are (Well-being & Empowerment).

Teaching Considerations

• Keep explanations simple and clear, using everyday and te reo Māori language where appropriate.
• Offer individual support as needed to ensure all children can participate.
• Encourage positive peer interactions and model respectful listening.
• Adjust pace as needed for children's attention spans and engagement.
• Use consistent routines for transition between activities to minimise disruption.
• Ensure all materials are safe, non-toxic, and easily washable to protect health.
• Promote a calm, encouraging atmosphere fostering joy and confidence in creativity.

Assessment and Reflection

• Observe children’s engagement levels and comfort with expressing themselves.
• Note developing fine motor skills and use of colour, shape, and texture.
• Listen for children’s use of language and descriptions about their artwork.
• Reflect on each child's sense of belonging and empowerment during sharing time.
• Use these observations to plan follow-up activities building skills in art exploration and communication.

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This lesson plan offers a warm, inviting platform for preschoolers to learn about self-expression through art in ways that deeply resonate with the principles of Te Whāriki, empowering children to see themselves as capable creators and valued members of their learning community. It’s designed to be simple yet profoundly impactful in supporting holistic early childhood development in a New Zealand context.