Alongside the excitement of the Nativity, the children have been learning about transport under the ground. Their focus was on submarines, the Euro Tunnel and The Underground so they created their own submarines and then used them for role play.

This topic prompted lots of language about floating, sinking and submerging and the children wanted to learn more about what objects float or sink.

The two year olds have created an underground station and made tracks by dipping trains into the paint and running them along the paper.

They are now coming to the end of their first half-term together and are beginning to form lovely relationships. 

This week is all about encouraging independence and why it is important. ‘Maria Montessori believed that independence was integral to a child’s development and not just a part of their play- “It’s a task they must accomplish in order to grow.” Building independence is part of a child developing social skills; self-reliance allows the child to feel they have control over certain parts of their life. Child independence allows a child to assess situations and for them to make a decision as to whether they can cope with it or still require help. If a child is not allowed to gain independence they can be quick to anger and you will find them unwilling to cooperate with you.

Developing independence or autonomy gives the child a sense of self-efficacy (‘I can do it on my own’) which promotes self-esteem and confidence, and promotes motivation and perseverance in school.’

Parent's Guide to Promoting Independence

We hope you have a lovely weekend.

Mrs Ainsley and the Nursery Team.