Icare childminding

Out and about

                                                               “Play is the highest form of research.”                                                                                           Albert Einstein

 

When you look at a pine cone, what do you see?

You might notice its shape and size and colour, and that’s about all. But when you gather a bunch of pine cones together from the outdoors and make something with them- a wreath, for example- you learn a lot more: how sticky pine cones can be, how prickly some kinds are, how they are put together, how they smell and feel and where you can find the best ones. You become a pine cone wizard :)

Being able to create something special is important for everyone, but particular so for children. They can start from a really young age, first by observing parents or siblings and gradually participating more and more until they have satisfaction of producing something all by themselves.

There are dozens of terrific craft projects, and  in my settings children are given the opportunity to explore and create with a large range of materials in order to create something special, we will also use materials that the nature has provided us with, which will help us to see, feel and understand the natural world around.

 

 

We will visit local parks nearby, playgrounds, visit the pond to feed the ducks, library, children’s play group,  that’s  all with easy reach. I would also plan some other outings which will required some traveling, I will inform parents about this well in advance, so you may have time to decide if you would want your kid to be part of that. Outings like that will include: trips to museum, Polka Theatre, Zoo, and lovely experience of having a kid’s afternoon tea party in one of the best 5* hotel in London!!

 

Play and education

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is statutory framework which sets the standards for the learning, development and care that I provide for the children in my care. To ensure that I meet the standard set out in the framework I would plan care and education around children’s individual needs and interests. My own observation and parents input will play an important role in this, soI would like to ensure that parents keep me informed of children’s changing interests so that I can incorporate these interests into activities.

I would keep individual learning journal which is a scrapbook of photographs, observations and children’s work which shows children’s changing achievements as they progress.

Educational experiences is provided through play in a fun and engaging  way With a wide selection of toys and activities on offer children are stimulated while they practise and develop their skills and increase their understanding of the world.