For our Learning Pathways topic this year, we are studying consumerism. This may seem a hard topic for 5-6 year olds but it can be simplified so that they can understand the basic concepts. We are looking at "using stuff sensibly" from getting the raw materials to disposal of any packaging or the end product after use. The 5 stages are:

• Extraction (getting the raw materials)
• Production (making the product)
• Distribution (getting the product from the factory to the shops)
• Consumption (buying and using the product)
• Disposal (getting rid of the packaging and/or the remains of the product)

We want the children to learn about being responsible so that we don't waste things and we are thoughtful when we buy use and dispose of anything.

In term 2, we have used food production to get these concepts across, particularly icecream, bread and chocolate. We have had lots of fun and some delicious tasting sessions to try out the results of our food production!

In term 3, we will be looking at being responsible producers and these are some ideas we have come up with:

• making recycled paper
• making cards and wrapping paper from recycled paper using various printing, marbling, dyeing and blowing techniques
• growing plants
• decorating pots

We will see where the children's interests lie and what it is feasible to fit in.

In term 4, we plan to have a Farmer's Market for the whole school to sell the products which we have made so that the children are part of the whole process of being a responsible consumer.

Also as part of being a responsible consumer, we are encouraging children to reduce the waste in thier lunchboxes and not have prepackaged items.
To support this concept we are holding a zero waste lunch (litterless lunch adventure) at Western Springs in term 2.

We are also involved in the Twin Streams Project to help the children to become aware of the importance of caring for our environment. In term 2  they will be planting trees by the stream, looking at water creatures and how to cut flax and in term 3 they will have a followup session.