Nursery Blog - 06.12.2024
6th December 2024
Exploring the Arctic: A Frosty, Fun-Filled Nursery Class Adventure
In our nursery class, learning can be both educational and exciting, and this week has been the perfect example of just that! Our little explorers have been delving into the wonders of the Arctic, all while engaging in hands-on activities that enhance their creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. From building sand snowmen to helping penguins escape from the ice, here's a look at some of the amazing learning experiences our nursery class has been enjoying.
Building Sand Snowmen: A Cool Creative Challenge
Though the weather may not be as cold as the Arctic, we brought the winter wonderland to the nursery in a fun and creative way. Our children were tasked with building "sand snowmen," a perfect combination of imagination and sensory play. The children then adorned their snowmen with unique accessories, such as scarves and hats, adding their own personal flair to each creation!
Making Marks in Salt Trays: A Sensory Exploration
In our class, we often incorporate sensory activities to help our children express themselves and explore different textures. This week, the children enjoyed making marks in salt trays. The fine, sparkly salt provided an ideal surface for children to practice their early writing skills. Using their fingers, they traced shapes, numbers, and even letters in the salt, giggling as they created patterns and designs. This activity not only strengthened their hand-eye coordination but also encouraged them to experiment with the idea of making marks, which is an essential part of developing writing skills.
Winter ABAB Patterns: A Cool Way to Learn Patterns
Patterns are all around us, and this week, the children worked on recognising and creating their own ABAB patterns, using winter-themed materials. We had sparkly snowflakes, ice cubes, white pebbles and wooden loose parts which the children arranged in alternating patterns. As they worked, they learned how to identify the repeating sequence, an important skill for math development. Some children even created patterns with their peers, collaborating on the designs while discussing the sequence aloud. It was wonderful to see their logical thinking skills unfold as they identified and recreated these patterns on their own!
Playing Musical Instrument Patterns: Learning Through Sound
Music is a fantastic way for children to learn rhythm, patterns, and coordination. This week, the children engaged in a musical activity where they explored patterns with a variety of musical instruments. From tambourines to rain makers, the children took turns creating simple musical patterns and rhythms, learning how sounds can follow a sequence just like colours or shapes in a pattern. They tapped, jingled, and drummed along, experimenting with fast and slow beats.
Helping the Penguins Escape from the Ice: A Frozen Problem-Solving Adventure
One of the most exciting activities this week was the challenge of helping the penguins escape from the ice! The water tray was transformed into an Arctic scene, complete with ice blocks and penguin figurines frozen inside. The children had to work together to figure out how to rescue the penguins, experimenting with different tools and techniques like warm water, tooth bushes, sponges, and even gentle tapping with hammers to release the little creatures. This activity encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and scientific thinking, as the children observed how heat could melt the ice and free the penguins. It was a perfect way to teach the young explorers about cause and effect, all while having a blast!
Exploring the New Outdoor Equipment
Our nursery staff have recently made some new outdoor equipment, and the children couldn’t wait to try it out. They had a blast investigating the bug hotel, making music, weaving their patterns and creating recipes in the loose parts kitchen. The equipment allowed them to develop their gross motor skills, build confidence, and engage in physical play that promotes health and well-being. Whether they were scaling a climbing wall or zooming down a slide, our little adventurers were full of energy, enjoying every moment of their new outdoor learning time.
