Kindergarten a family tradition

One of Hawera's oldest kindergartens is celebrating it's 60th anniversary next month. The Hawera Kindergarten is hosting a weekend of fun to honour the achievement on October 19 and 20. Kindergarten committee treasurer Jo Hurley said she chose to send her children there for early childhood education because of her own treasured childhood memories formed at the Kauri Cres facility. "I had good memories of it," she said. It was a given choice for her family. Her mother Sue Taylor was a committee member there when Mrs Hurley was a small child. "We were here from 1977 to 84, I think it was the only kindy in those days," she said. While the facilities and toys have been updated over time, the place is still much as she remembers it. Sisters Charlotte and Hayley Quinn both have children now attending the facility, having also attended themselves during younger years. "It's easy, we share the load, I pick her children up and she picks mine up sometimes," said Hayley Quinn. Mrs Hurley and the Quinn sisters are hoping to see some of their old playmates turn out for the anniversary celebrations on Labour Weekend. The events start with an adults only quiz night on Friday, October 19, with a 1950's theme followed by a fun day at the kindergarten the next day. There will be a barbecue, bouncy castle, face painting and a plaque unveiling. To register contact Tania Meyer at tania.rieg@gmail.com. - © Fairfax NZ News Kindergarten a family tradition PETRA FINER SOUTH TARANAKI STAR Last updated 12:10 19/09/2012 Never-ending fun: Jyle Meads, 4, in the sandpit at Hawera Kindergarten.