Starfish

The programme allows for spontaneous experiences resulting from children's interests, such as exploring, problem solving attempts and self-help skills, early language acquisition and social play.

Planned Indoor and Outdoor Experiences

The environment allows for children to be in small groups or individual, promoting restful reflection and energetic experiences. Consideration in planning is given to the ways in which the natural elements of the environment are visible, both indoors and outdoors.

The areas of home corner, books, construction, science, nature and manipulative materials are made available on a daily basis both indoors and outdoors.

Negotiated / Spontaneous Experiences

By offering a selection of open ended materials to choose from, it enables the children to create, think laterally and problem solve whilst being empowered by choice.

Transitions

Transitions are used to help children proceed smoothly between groups and experiences. This is kept constant and familiar within the routine, helping the children develop a sense of achievement, confidence and security whilst furthering their sense of involvement within the group

Individual and Small Group Experience

These are planned to encourage –

• feelings and thoughts
• participation
• turn taking
• empathy
• positive relationships
• concentration
• collaboration
• attention span
• sense of belonging
• involvement
• team work
• decision making
• enjoyment

During these times children are provided with opportunities to extend their language, cognitive skills, fine motor and gross motor skills and an opportunity to interact on an individual basis with staff members.

Evaluations

Each day the programme is evaluated and follow up experiences are planned to extend children's development and interests. These future experiences are supported by a range of resources and are valued and encouraged by staff.