My philosophy is that all children need to learn through play. They do not benefit from a rigid structure at this stage of development. Therefore, routines are flexible allowing an element of choice and discovery learning through play and guidance - the nursery has a good balance of adult initiated and child initiated activities. The adults sometimes stay on the periphery supporting and encouraging whilst the children actively engage in activities that they enjoy – they lead and we follow.

We take the children out into the local community, to the library, park and into the forest for walks and picnics.

Routines

There are some set activities such as breakfast for the babies and the snack bar from 9.00 am till 10 am for 2 year olds to 5 year olds.  There is the hot lunch prepared by the nursery chef served in the dinning room between 11.20 am and 12.30 pm, there is also tea served at 3.00 pm for all children.  A late snack is available upon request at 5.15 pm at an extra charge of £1.50.  The social meal times provide a great opportunity for social interaction and communication.

Other set activities include -

ALa Jolie Ronde - French club for over 3's on Mondays

Amanda Fun for all ages on Tuesdays

Jo Jingles for all ages on Tuesdays.

In addition to this, focussed activities are planned for all children by their key person taking into account the child's interests - there are normally two adult planned activities during the day.  All other activities are child initiated with numerous opportunties identified in the 'Continuous Provision Sheet' in all units.