Kaye helps children grow with ‘work’ at Playcentre

RETIRING Te Awamutu Playcentre patron Kaye Hewitt gets some help with the planting of a flowering cherry tree from past and present playcentre pupils. TC140808CA02

BY CATHY ASPLIN

Kaye Hewitt had a tear in her eye as she looked over photos from earlier days at Te Awamutu Playcentre.

It’s obvious when she speaks about her time involved in the centre over the past 33 years that she has a passion for children’s learning. So it was quite a tough decision for her to step down from her role as patron after 27 years.

‘‘I have always loved being involved in Playcentre, but my health hasn’t been so good lately, so it was time to slow down.’’

At the farewell ceremony last week, past and present Playcentre children and their parents gathered to thank her. Parents also had tears in their eyes as they spoke about Mrs Hewitt as a ‘living treasure’ and her caring efforts towards the education of their children.

Te Awamutu Playcentre copresident Hayley Brown says Mrs Hewitt’s dedication to Te Awamutu Playcentre has been nothing short of extraordinary, ‘‘She regularly attended Playcentre sessions once a week right up until earlier this year. Kaye has demonstrated her belief in the philosophy of Playcentre during every session that she has attended either as supervisor or patron. She has worked with hundreds of children.

‘‘As she will tell you children’s play is their work, it’s what they need to do every day to learn and develop. Kaye has certainly contributed to the learning and development of many, many Te Awamutu children. She is also a life member of the King Country Playcentre Association and has shared her knowledge and experience supporting parents in the parent education programme.

‘‘Kaye truly represents the values of playcentre - that is parents, families and grandparents are the most important people in the lives and education of young children.’’

She thanked Mrs Hewitt for her generosity — giving time, experience, knowledge and passion for children’s learning.

Mrs Hewitt was presented with a beautiful book containing clippings and photos of her years at Te Awamutu Playcentre, a framed photo of her working on a puzzle with a Playcentre child and some lovely flowers. She cut a celebration cake (aptly in the shape of a puzzle) and took part in the tree planting ceremony in her honour.