Personal, Social and Emotional Development

Within our comfortable and nurturing environment, children are supported in developing confidence and self-esteem. Children are encouraged to work individually and in groups, to concentrate and persevere and are guided towards becoming independent. Children learn to make relationships with other children and adults. Through adult example, activities and conversation children learn acceptable ways to express themselves and to have respect for themselves and others. We encourage  all children to become aware of the behavioural expectations of our group and to develop a sense of community.

Communication, Language and Literacy

Through conversation, questions and explanations children are encouraged to develop communications skills. Vocabulary and expression are extended by both speaking and listening. Children begin to use language confidently and use talk to tell stories to others about their experiences. A wide variety of books (both story and information) are available at all times for children to enjoy independently and with adults. Children are encouraged to become aware of sounds in words and then to recognise some familiar words. Children are shown that writing has many purposes and are encouraged to use writing as a means of communicating. Handwriting skills are also encouraged so that when appropriate children can begin to form recognisable letters.



Mathematics

By using adult supported practical activities, children will become familiar with using numbers as labels and for counting. They will learn to recognise numerals and begin to represent them. Children are provided with experience of shape, space and measures in a practical way, which enables children to practise skills for matching, comparing, ordering and construction. Adults use mathematical language and encourage the children to use mathematical vocabulary for themselves.



Knowledge and Understanding of the World

Within a safe and stimulating environment children are encouraged to explore and investigate a range of natural and manmade materials. Children learn to observe patterns and changes and are given opportunities to find out about their local environment and community. Children’s sense of time is developed by encouraging them to find out about past and present events in their own lives and those of people they know. An awareness of other cultures and beliefs is encouraged through the use of a range of multi-cultural resources. Children are given opportunities to practice design and construction skills and to use everyday technology (including the use of a computer) in an appropriate way.



Physical Development

A wide range of equipment and opportunities, both inside and out, allows children to develop confidence and enjoyment in using and developing their own physical skills. A high level of adult supervision enables children to create and meet physical challenges safely and with increasing control. Children are supported in their development of fine manipulative skills required to dress, explore malleable materials, use tools, pens and pencils. We help children become aware of a range of healthy practices with regard to eating, sleeping and hygiene.



Creative Development

A wide variety of resources are used to develop children’s activity. They are encouraged to explore a range of media and materials, using different colours and textures in a creative way on a small or large scale. Opportunities are provided for children to be creative through construction, collage, painting and drawing. Music is a regular feature of sessions; singing action songs and rhymes, playing musical instruments and dancing are all enjoyed.

Children are encouraged to use their imagination though role-play and pretend play, either individually or as part of a group. The children are encouraged to respond to comments and questions through discussions about their creations and to describe their work and to talk about their intentions.