Play and Education Activities, are planned around our ‘Topic of the Month’ which the children choose and follows the Government’s Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum.  Babies and young children will direct their natural curiosity throughout these topics, for instance, ‘Animals, Transport, The Seaside, Colours, Festivals and the Weather.  The children will learn through their five senses and through play.  The week is also filled with delightful opportunities for children to express their creativity with free art activities such as painting, gluing, sticking, messy play, imaginary play and planned topic related activities.  Every child has their week planned along the Early Years Foundation Stage and we focus on their welfare, safety, health and well-being and education and learning.  These are covered through our plans within the seven areas of development (explained in more detail on the following page).

We  encourage practical life skills, for example, serving their friends fruit at snack times, feeding themselves and putting on their coat etc.  We will work together with you to prepare your child’s progression onto school with confidence and happiness.

At mealtimes we encourage each child to be aware of good manners and healthy eating.  We encourage an understanding of the importance of a healthy diet, discussing for example, what they are eating and why it is good for them. The children are also encouraged to plant their own fruit , herbs and vegetables in the garden as well as flowers.

The Early Years Foundation Stage concentrates on the child from 0-5 years. It is divided into 3 principles:

A Unique Child

Every child is a unique child who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self assured.

Positive Relationships

Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships.

Enabling Environments

Children learn and develop well in an environment where people are valued, and learn by providing them with rich learning opportunities through play.  There needs to be a strong partnership between parents and carers.

These three principles create positive ‘ learning and Development’ for children.

Teaching is based upon ensuring challenging opportunities across the prime and specific areas of learning and development.