‘Berries’ – provides day care for 3 and 4 year olds which includes 15/30 hours free childcare per week.
The Room & Activities
In the Berries we aim to provide a rich environment where children can play with many different types of resources, either individually or as groups. Throughout all of the children’s play there are learning opportunities, both inside and outdoors. Independence is a big focus in the Berries to support children in getting ‘ready’ for school.
Areas & activities of the Berries play room & art room include;
- Story corner
- Home corner & imaginative play.
- Writing Area
- Heuristic play area
- Small world & construction area
- Dancing, P.E & yoga
- Register, calendar & circle time mat
- Craft & messy play activities
- Sand & water play
- Key Person time & small group times
- Cooking activities
- Jolly Phonics
The Berries explore a letter, shape, number colour & story of the week, which is talked about at group time.
The Berries have frequent access & free flow opportunities to the outside area, mainly using our playground. On the playground the children enjoy racing on the big bikes as well as exploring the sensory garden, music & water wall.
The Berries also participate in a series of events such as Christmas Concerts, Christmas carols at a local residential home, Sports day & Graduation.
Routine
7.45am-9am: Free play & welcoming children into nursery.
9am-12pm: Register time begins at 9am. Children then have free play between the play room, art room & outside. Structured activities & key person time also happens. Rolling snack begins at 10am. The morning is ended with a large group time whilst children get ready for lunch.
12pm-1pm: Lunch time.
1pm- 4.15pm: Free flow play in main room, art room & outside area. Structured & small group activities always take place. Rolling snack begins at 2pm. The afternoon usually ends with a large group time activity of stories or dancing and singing.
4.15pm-5pm: Tea time
5pm-6pm: Free play & home time.
Children’s needs and routines are well considered within this room. If children still need a sleep or toilet training at this age, this will be ensured that it is fitted into the child’s day & the key person is fully aware of this.
Within this room, supporting children with the transition to school is vital. Independence is hugely promoted with self care such as toileting & dressing, as well as activities like register time and P.E. We also have strong connections with primary schools & invite teachers to meet their future students & to talk with the key person. Not only this but Parent’s evenings are also arranged to discuss children’s development.
