Painting with Purpose: A Mural Project that Brings MTOP to Life
In school-age care, not all learning happens at a desk. Some of the most meaningful moments happen through shared experiences — when children collaborate, create, and express who they are. That’s exactly what happens in this vibrant, MTOP-aligned activity: a Collaborative Mural Painting Project.
This isn’t just an art project — it’s an experience that connects the concepts, principles, and learning outcomes of My Time, Our Place in a powerful and practical way.
The Heart of the Framework: Belonging, Being & Becoming
These three foundational ideas shape how educators view children’s development:
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Belonging: The mural reflects children’s identities, cultures, families, and friendships — helping them feel connected and seen.
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Being: Children are encouraged to be present in the moment, enjoying the creative process and contributing in their own unique way.
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Becoming: Through collaboration, planning, and expression, children grow their sense of self, develop new skills, and expand their social awareness.
Principles in Practice
Here’s how the MTOP principles come to life during this mural experience:
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Secure, respectful relationships: Educators listen to children’s ideas and support collaboration, making sure every voice is valued.
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Partnerships with families and community: Mural themes might include symbols from the local area or cultural elements contributed by families.
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High expectations and equity: All children are encouraged to participate — with scaffolding, adaptations, or alternative tools where needed.
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Respect for diversity: The project creates space for cultural expression, personal stories, and a wide range of artistic styles.
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Ongoing learning and reflective practice: Educators observe how children interact and adapt support based on individual needs and group dynamics.
Learning Outcomes in Action
This one activity helps support all five MTOP learning outcomes:
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Children have a strong sense of identity
– As children express their background and interests, they develop pride in who they are. -
Children are connected with and contribute to their world
– They work together to create something lasting and meaningful for their shared space. -
Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
– The creative process encourages confidence, emotional expression, and joy. -
Children are confident and involved learners
– Children take ownership of planning, experimenting with techniques, and solving challenges collaboratively. -
Children are effective communicators
– They express ideas through conversation, artwork, symbols, and stories — using both verbal and non-verbal communication.
Why It Matters
What might look like “just painting” is actually a rich, intentional learning experience. It allows children to connect, create, and collaborate — while educators embed the MTOP framework through practice, not paperwork.
By designing experiences like this, we go beyond compliance and move toward meaningful engagement — where learning is visible, valuable, and child-led.