This week I am revisiting a blog post from way back in 2013 that focussed on a method of taking children’s learning journeys into display. It was a really popular post and since then I have seen the display replicated in many different ways on my travels all over the world. Thanks to Ladybrook Primary for being the initial inspiration! At Ladybrook they had a version of this in both Nursery and Reception This is Reception. A large display board has been divided up so that each child gets a large(ish) square. The whole thing was really well thought out from the backing paper to the mounts that the photographs were on. The display starts with a photo of the … Read More
Planning for Continuous Provision – Reception and Year One
If you are looking at an effective transition for children into Year One then your timetable will be very similar to a good Reception one rather than a more traditional Year One format. Your children will have periods of direct adult input this could be whole class or group depending on what you are teaching. The children will then spend much longer periods of time in Continuous Provision where the adults will be observing, supporting, challenging and teaching. My preferred style of working in Continuous Provision is that after you have finished your direct input everyone goes into the play together. It know it is tempting to keep a ‘group’ back on the carpet and then rotate through your groups … Read More
The Wonder of Woodwork! – Guest blog by Pete Moorhouse
When I was training to teach and after I qualified, I remember most Nursery and Reception classes that I visited having a workbench as part of their provision. As time went on and the world got a little bit Health and Safety crazy, they all seemed to disappear. The skills that children can learn whilst carrying out this sort of play and exploration are invaluable – so I am really pleased to see that workbenches appear to be on the rise again! This week I am really pleased to have a guest blogpost from Pete Moorhouse who, amongst other things, is a woodworker who works with children… The Wonder of Woodwork – Guest blog! Woodwork provides a unique learning experience … Read More
Squeeze and Snap Dough Recipe
It has been a busy old time here at ABC headquarters what with conferences, consultancy and book deadlines! I am also really chuffed to say that I have been shortlisted for not one, but three Nursery World Awards! This is very exciting news and I am keeping everything crossed that I might actually win one! I have also very much enjoyed trying out some new dough recipes with my gorgeous neice Mabel -who is a very willing, able and chatty helper! We had such fun making this one, I thought I would share it. It is really quick and easy. Squeeze and Snap Dough (It is called ‘Squeeze and Snap’ because you can squeeze it and snap it!) What … Read More