Having passed the baby phase, elements of independence are introduced at this stage. A wider range of play equipment and creative opportunities are on hand to further stimulate this age group. Emotional and expressive development is supported as children are beginning to gain an understanding of the world around them.
Social skills are inspired. Children are encouraged to share by taking turns and making friends.
We encourage child’s free choice; this may be as simple as being able to choose your own snack at snack time. All toys are at the children’s height so children can choose what toys they would like to play with. We promote the development of the children by providing a mixture of adult led activities and children’s choice.
Their dedicated outdoor play area enhances physical co-ordination and control, advancing the recent, and first physical developments made in the baby stage.
‘All About Me’ books play a big part here. A child’s individual activities are recorded in their book throughout the week and parents are asked to do the same for weekend activities.
Key workers discuss the comments with the child, developing communication skills through simple conversation. The use of flash cards, singing and story time also helps to further such skills. The Little Acorn room has a take home bear called Esmee who loves lots of different weekend adventures with the children.
Children begin to recognize easy numbers and shapes. Counting skills are improved through building towers and shape appreciation is taught by jigsaws/puzzles.
| Daily Routine | |
|---|---|
| 7.30-8.00am | Arrivals and play time |
| 8.00-8.30am | Breakfast Time |
| 8.30-9.30am | Room division, free choice play time |
| 9.30-10.00am | Fruit snack time and singing |
| 10.00-11.45am | Indoor/outdoor play time (weather dependent) |
| 11.45-12.00pm | Lunch Time Preparation |
| 12.00-12.30pm | Lunch Time |
| 12.30-2.00pm | Sleep Time |
| 2.00-3.00pm | Indoor/Outdoor Play Time |
| 3.00-3.30pm | Snack Time |
| 3.30-4.00pm | Preparation for Home Time |
| 4.00-5.00pm | Story Time |
| 5.00-6.00pm | Play until home time |