weekly roundup - 2 February 2024

Two Round Up's in a week - hopefully means we're back on track!

Our 'Investigation' topic this week included a variety of activities involving materials that can be changed. In Honeys, the children explored ice and watched as it melted to release the trapped toy bugs inside. They spoke about fossils and learned how animals and plants were preserved in rocks over millions of years - they even had a go at making their own impressions of fossilised creatures and dinosaur footprints using playdough. Magnifying glasses were used to inspect their creations which helped the children understand how objects look enlarged through special lenses. 

In Bumbles, the children made volcanos and learned about how they erupt shooting hot lava into the air. They used balloons during an activity that helped them understand the effects of how air can help with expanding certain materials. At the craft table the children explored how colours can be changes by filling transparent bags with paint and manipulating the contents inside.

Both rooms enjoyed listening to the story "Baby Loves Gravity" which explains simply how this force works. 

Next week, our topic of 'All Around the World' starts as we support children to continue developing positive attitudes about the differences between people. Children will learn that there are different countries in the world and talk about the differences they have experienced or seen in photos. We'll be celebrating the build up to Chinese New Year and have a few treats in store for activities. Mike Dodsworth, the professional storyteller will be joining us for a couple of sessions and entertaining the children with a puppet show focused on the Year Of The Dragon. He'll be explaining to staff and parents how interactive storytelling can support children's communication, language and literacy skills. Details about days and times have been emailed to parents so do come along if your child is in for the sessions. If you wish to attend, please arrive 5 minutes before the start to sign in. The event will be standing or some small children's chairs will be available. If you have mobility issues which require an adult chair, please let us know in advance. The event will last approximately 30-45 minutes. Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate buggies into the room - there is a covered buggy park to the right of the front door. No phones are permitted. Due to space, this event is limited to one parent/carer per child.

We'll also be enjoying some food tasting activities next week and trying to distinguish between products that taste salty, sweet, sour and bitter. I wonder what will be most popular!

Have a lovely weekend.