Excursions and Trips as Part of the Learning Process

The Role of Excursions and Trips in Children’s Development

In preschool age, children explore the world not only through books or classroom activities. The most vivid discoveries happen when a child can see, feel, and experience something in a real environment. That is why MOI OBRIY Private Kindergarten places significant emphasis on integrated learning activities such as excursions and trips.

These are not just walks—they are thoughtfully planned educational experiences that help children better understand the world around them, build life skills, foster independence, and make learning engaging, emotional, and lively.

Thematic Trips and Educational Excursions

At MOI OBRIY, every trip is organized with a clearly defined educational purpose. These may include visits to museums, libraries, theaters, exhibitions, eco-parks, botanical gardens, or farms. Each excursion is closely linked to the group’s curriculum: for example, learning about animals may culminate in a trip to a zoo or petting farm; exploring art could involve visiting an art gallery or attending a theater performance; topics about nature are reinforced with walks in botanical gardens or ecological parks.

Such excursions not only expand children’s knowledge but also stimulate their curiosity. Children learn to ask questions, observe carefully, and make their own initial conclusions. This fosters critical and independent thinking. Additionally, trips support the development of social skills: children interact with each other, discuss what they see, and share their emotions.

This practice is a vivid example of the principle of integrated learning, where theoretical material is always reinforced with real-life experience. As a result, information is remembered more easily and becomes not just knowledge but a meaningful part of a child’s life experience.

Organizing Safe Trips

At MOI OBRIY Kindergarten, children’s safety during trips is an absolute priority. Each excursion is carefully planned: the route is determined in advance, the transport and driver are checked, and a support team of teachers and assistants is organized. Teachers monitor every stage of the trip to ensure that children feel calm and secure throughout the experience.

Before departure, children participate in playful discussions where they are reminded of the rules of behavior on transport, during walks, or when visiting public places. This helps them engage in the trip consciously and without unnecessary anxiety.

Parents always receive complete information about the excursion program, a list of necessary items, and contacts for responsible teachers in advance. This transparent approach builds trust, giving families confidence that their children are in safe hands under constant supervision.

Thanks to this careful organization, excursions and trips at the kindergarten combine learning with active recreation without any risks to children’s health or comfort. Children enjoy new experiences, and parents enjoy peace of mind knowing their children are safe.

Children’s and Parents’ Impressions

The benefits of trips are best reflected in emotions. Children enthusiastically share their experiences after each excursion, talking about the animals they saw, performances they attended, or new places they explored. At home, they recreate these experiences through drawings or play. For little ones, this is an opportunity to learn in a joyful and inspired way.

Parents also note that after such trips, children become more open, curious, and communicative. Their development is holistic: knowledge is combined with emotions, and new experiences strengthen memory while fostering a positive attitude toward learning.

Working Together with Parents: Unlocking Children’s Full Potential

Collaboration Between Teachers and Parents at MOI OBRIY Kindergarten

Children grow incredibly quickly, and each day at kindergarten becomes a new discovery and a step forward. It is important that they experience this journey not only under the guidance of teachers but also with active participation from their parents. At MOI OBRIY Private Kindergarten, we believe that true success is possible when adults join forces for the benefit of the child. That is why the center has established a system of interaction where parental partnership is not a formality, but an effective tool that ensures the harmonious and full development of each child.

Forms of Interaction and Information Exchange

Raising and educating a child is a process in which both teachers and parents play a crucial role. Only through close cooperation can truly harmonious results be achieved. That is why MOI OBRIY places great emphasis on partnership with parents.

Forms of collaboration are varied and convenient. They include regular individual consultations with teachers and speech therapists, weekly meetings to discuss achievements and challenges, as well as modern tools such as electronic journals and online chat channels. This format allows parents to always stay informed about what their child is working on, which skills they are mastering, and which areas require additional attention at home.

Transparent information exchange helps quickly address individual needs and maintain a consistent approach to upbringing. At the kindergarten, we are confident that when family and teachers “speak the same language,” children develop with confidence, stability, and a sense of support from both sides.

The Role of Parent Meetings

An important aspect of the collaboration between the kindergarten and families is parent meetings. At MOI OBRIY Private Kindergarten, these meetings are not dry reports, but rather open and lively dialogues between teachers and parents. They cover not only children’s academic achievements, but also their adaptation, emotional well-being, relationships with peers, and the development of social skills.

These meetings become a space for mutual exchange of experiences. Parents have the opportunity to share their own observations, while teachers provide practical recommendations based on professional expertise and daily work with the children. This helps better understand each child’s individual characteristics and find optimal solutions for their development.

As a result, shared approaches and agreements are formed during these meetings, allowing for a unified strategy for upbringing both at home and at kindergarten. This approach turns parental partnership into a real, effective tool that benefits the child and ensures their harmonious development.

Support and Understanding

For a child, it is extremely important to feel that there are adults nearby who understand their needs and are ready to provide support in any situation. This creates a foundation for confidence, openness, and a desire to grow. At MOI OBRIY Kindergarten, teachers pay special attention to the emotional well-being of the children, as learning is impossible without a sense of safety and trust.

To this end, the kindergarten employs a psychologist who accompanies each stage of a child’s development and also provides consultations for parents. Their role is not only to help children adapt but also to teach them how to manage emotions, build relationships with peers, and express their thoughts confidently.

Individual meetings with the specialist allow parents to gain a deeper understanding of their child’s personality, receive practical advice on communication at home, and avoid misunderstandings or unnecessary worries. As a result, a trusting atmosphere is formed where the kindergarten and family work as a single team, and the child’s development proceeds in a consistent and harmonious way.

Our Students — with International Achievements!

The students of My Horizons Lyceum study English in depth and prepare for Cambridge English Qualifications — international exams that officially certify English language proficiency worldwide.

On June 21, 2025, in Warsaw, Poland, our 4th- and 5th-grade students — Andrii Dudchenko, Kateryna Poberezhna, Oleksandra Burkovska, Elina Zarva, Vira Turovets, and Sofiia Paziuk — successfully confirmed their A2 level by passing the A2 Flyers exam (for children under 12 years old).

Words cannot fully describe the joy in the children’s eyes when they realized that perseverance and hard work truly bring results!
Throughout the entire school year, they diligently prepared — completing dozens of practice tasks, analyzing their mistakes, and gradually improving their knowledge. The trip to Warsaw became not only a serious challenge, but also a real adventure filled with bright emotions and new experiences.

Of course, we’re not stopping there.
Our students have already begun preparing for the next level — A2 Key for Schools. Together with their teacher, Ms. Yuliia Shpak, the 6th graders are familiarizing themselves with the test format, studying essential vocabulary and grammar, and confidently moving forward to conquer new heights.

This trip was special not only for the children but also for their mentor.
Ms. Yuliia Shpak also took international exams and earned TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test) certificates — Module 2 and Module 3 — which confirm her high level of expertise in modern teaching methodologies according to the Cambridge framework.

We are proud of our students and teachers!
Together, we grow, learn, and achieve new heights.

“Leadership in a Christian Family” — a Seminar for Educators by Marichka and Bohdan Halyuk

The team of My Horizons Lyceum is a community that continually grows, refines its teaching skills, and strives for spiritual development. We believe that true human growth is the harmony of spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental health. That is why we care about the all-round enrichment of our colleagues.

On October 6, the lyceum welcomed Bohdan and Marichka Halyuk — a Christian couple who have dedicated their lives to serving God and people.
Bohdan is a minister and Deputy Director of the Department of Education at the Ukrainian Church of Christians of Evangelical Faith (UCCEF), and Marichka is the author of Bible reading plans for YouVersion, research-based courses, and a Christian blogger.

The topic of the seminar — “Christian Leadership in the Family” — proved to be highly relevant for both women and men. During the meeting, the speakers talked about Jesus as a leader who serves rather than rules; about the importance of maintaining balance between spiritual, mental, and physical life; and about how one’s character influences change within the family and society.

The speakers illustrated their message with vivid biblical examples:

  • Eve — a symbol of losing God’s peace through lack of knowledge and distrust;
  • Esther — an example of wisdom, peace, and determination through which an entire nation was saved.

Participants of the meeting reconsidered an important truth: the choices and character of a single person can change the destiny of a family, a team, or even a nation.

A highlight of the event was a talk-show-style Q&A session, during which a thought resonated strongly with the audience: there are three levels of understanding one’s character —

  1. what others see in us,
  2. what we see in ourselves,
  3. and who we truly are — before God.

Another profound statement was voiced:

“Honesty with yourself and before God is the path to true growth and leadership.”

In the context of family, this means building relationships not on authority or power, but on mutual service and respect. In everyday life, it means constantly examining one’s character and asking: Does it reflect biblical values?

We sincerely thank Bohdan and Marichka Halyuk for the warm atmosphere, profound insights, shared prayer, and heartfelt communication.
We also thank God for the new acquaintances, inspiration, and experiences that help us grow and reach new horizons.

You can find photos and more direct feedback from the meeting at the following link: Instagram post

Speech Therapy Activities: Nurturing Language Skills

Speech Therapy Support at MOI OBRIY Private Kindergarten

Parents know well how special the moment is when a child speaks their very first words. It marks not only the beginning of communication but also an important step in shaping personality, expressing emotions, and building self-confidence. That is why MOI OBRIY Kindergarten places great emphasis on speech therapy support. Here, professional methods are combined with a caring environment and continuous psychological support, ensuring that a child’s language development unfolds naturally, harmoniously, and with a sense of joy.

Features of Working with Children

Every child has their own developmental rhythm, and language often becomes one of the first areas parents notice. For some little ones, first words come early and easily; for others, time and professional support are needed to speak confidently. At MOI OBRIY Private Kindergarten, speech therapy sessions are designed to support each child, regardless of their starting point, making the process of learning language natural and comfortable.

The specialists at the kindergarten take a comprehensive approach: they not only help with correct pronunciation of sounds, but also expand vocabulary, teach clear sentence construction, and work on breathing, intonation, and speech pace. This allows children to express their thoughts freely, feel confident among peers, and communicate easily with adults.

Sessions are conducted in a playful format, as this is the most effective way for preschoolers to absorb information. Children engage in fun exercises, listen to and discuss stories, sing songs, draw, and even take part in mini-theatrical performances. These activities combine language development with creativity, spark imagination, and provide emotional comfort.

Speech Correction Methods

Modern speech therapy is much more than traditional mirror exercises. At MOI OBRIY Kindergarten, speech therapy is based on interactive, play-based methods that simultaneously develop language, thinking, and imagination. Techniques include articulation exercises, finger games, activities with sensory materials, working with cards, and role-playing games. This approach not only helps children correct the pronunciation of individual sounds but also trains fine motor skills, which directly affect the speed and quality of language development.

Sessions can be conducted individually or in small groups, allowing specialists to consider each child’s unique needs. If a child requires support with complex sounds, the focus is placed specifically on that area. If the goal is to develop connected speech, the speech therapist selects exercises aimed at forming detailed responses, describing objects, and storytelling.

A key feature of the MOI OBRIY approach is the collaborative work of specialists: the speech therapist works closely with teachers and a psychologist. This comprehensive approach ensures that language sessions are combined with the child’s emotional stability and comfort. Psychological support is just as important as the exercises themselves—when a child feels calm and secure, language development occurs faster and more effectively.

A Profession That Changes the World: “My Horizons” Educators Among the Best Teachers in the Region

On the eve of Education Workers’ Day, traditionally celebrated on the first Sunday of October, a solemn ceremony took place in Khmelnytskyi to honor those who shape the country’s future — the educators. The session hall of the House of Councils gathered hundreds of teachers, caregivers, school principals, and methodologists — all those who, with love and inspiration, devote their hearts to nurturing a new generation of Ukrainians.

The event was attended by the Chair of the Regional Council, Violeta Labazyuk, and her deputies — Volodymyr Honcharuk, Valentyn Sokolyuk, and Tetiana Zelenko. They congratulated the educators on their professional holiday, expressed sincere gratitude for their dedicated work, and presented honorary certificates and awards to the most distinguished representatives of the regional educational community.

During the ceremony, a moment of silence was held in memory of all educators and defenders of Ukraine who gave their lives for the country’s independence. This moment of profound silence served as a reminder that the work of a teacher today is not just a profession, but a true calling — one filled with self-sacrifice, courage, and faith in people and in Ukraine itself.

In her speech, Violeta Labazyuk emphasized:
“It is you, dear educators, who help our children become intelligent, disciplined, neat, wise, and, most importantly, conscious citizens of an unbreakable Ukraine. We owe our ability to live and work to our defenders — the brave men and women who hold back the enemy onslaught and ensure our right to work in relatively peaceful conditions. Among those who, at the risk of their lives, stand up for our independence, there are many educators.”

Among this year’s awardees were teachers from the “My Horizons” Lyceum, who pour not only knowledge and experience but also a part of their soul into their work every day. With love, they guide children along the path of discovery, teaching them to think, empathize, and believe in their own abilities. Every lesson, every conversation, every smile is a step toward children’s dreams and a confident future.

For the “My Horizons” team, this distinction means more than an honorary award. It is sincere proof that the daily work of educators carries deep meaning and echoes with gratitude in the hearts of children, parents, and the entire community. Thanks to their dedication, young learners not only gain knowledge but also learn to love learning itself, to discover their talents, to understand the world, and to take their first steps toward success with confidence.

The “My Horizons” staff sincerely thank the event organizers for their attention to educators, for their support, and for honoring those who shape the future. We express our heartfelt gratitude to all colleagues and partners who work every day with inspiration and faith in children — because it is this shared effort that makes Ukrainian education strong, vibrant, and worthy of trust.

We thank our educators for their wisdom, kindness, and the light they share with their students. It is thanks to you that education remains a true force shaping the future of Ukraine.

The Importance of Morning Meetings for Setting Children’s Emotional Tone

Morning Gatherings at MOI OBRIY Kindergarten: Starting the Day with Positivity

Every day is a new adventure for a child, and it is crucial what mood they carry into it. The first few minutes after arriving at kindergarten set the emotional tone for the entire day—whether it’s a sense of confidence and joy or, on the contrary, anxiety. That is why at MOI OBRIY Kindergarten, special attention is given to morning gatherings. This is a special time when children and teachers create a friendly atmosphere that fills everyone with positivity and helps each child feel accepted and valued.

Building Emotional Stability

Morning gatherings at kindergarten are much more than a simple “good morning.” They have become an integral part of the educational process and one of the most effective tools for developing emotional intelligence. When a child hears kind words every morning, sees the smiles of teachers and peers, they gain a sense of acceptance, safety, and support. This reduces anxiety after separating from parents, creates a smooth transition from home to the learning environment, and sets the tone for active cooperation throughout the day.

During these gatherings, teachers use specially designed exercises and rituals—from simple songs and cheerful greetings to short conversations about the day’s plans and expectations. Children learn not only to listen but also to express their own emotions in words—for example: “Today I feel happy,” “I feel sad,” or “I want to share something.” This develops their ability to recognize their inner state, strengthens empathy, and helps them understand the feelings of others.

Equally important is the development of organizational skills. Daily morning rituals teach children to follow a sequence of actions, nurture discipline, and create a sense of predictability. Step by step, little ones begin to realize that each new day starts with a familiar, pleasant tradition that gives them confidence and stability.

Examples of Morning Gathering Activities

Morning gatherings at MOI OBRIY Kindergarten are always varied and engaging. They may include a group song, a short movement activity, an icebreaker game, or a brief story about upcoming events of the day. These activities not only create a joyful mood but also support the development of speech, attention, and social skills.

A common element is the “greeting circle,” where children welcome each other in different ways: with a smile, a gesture, a handshake, or even a fun dance move. Another option is the “mood calendar,” where each child chooses a smiley face or picture that reflects how they are feeling today. This helps teachers better understand the children’s emotional state and respond to their needs in time.

Short themed games or conversations are also used, such as discussing the weather, sharing an interesting piece of news, or talking about an upcoming celebration. These activities teach children to listen to one another, ask questions, and express their own thoughts.

Feedback from Parents and Teachers

Parents note that since the introduction of morning gatherings, children have become more eager to go to kindergarten. Little ones come home with new songs, gestures, or games, which they happily share with the whole family. This creates a sense of involvement and strengthens their positive attitude toward learning.

Teachers emphasize that such gatherings make the rest of the day much easier. Children engage in the learning process more quickly, interact better with one another, and experience fewer conflicts. In addition, morning rituals help educators notice each child’s mood right from the start and provide timely support when needed.

Overall, morning gatherings at MOI OBRIY have become a powerful tool for fostering a friendly atmosphere and actively developing emotional intelligence. They transform an ordinary start of the day into a warm ritual that gives children a sense of confidence, joy, and readiness for a positive learning experience.