# data[].attributes.body
Regular woodwork sessions are proving popular in the class. This term the children have been tasked with the challenge of designing and making their own cars.

# data[].attributes.body
Love was all around when celebrating Valentines Day in class- making Love Potions was top of the agenda.

# data[].attributes.body
The children created their own story maps that sequenced all the main characters and events that occurred in the book.

# data[].attributes.body
Yoga has many benefits for young children, including:

Enhances Flexibility, Balance, and Posture

Boosts Brain Function and Concentration

Increases Energy Levels and Reduces Fatigue

Supports Overall Health and Well-Being

Improves Sleep Quality

Builds Self-Esteem and Confidence

Encourages Emotional Control and Reduces Impulsivity

Strengthens Immunity and Supports Physical Health

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Promotes a Positive Mindset and Emotional Well-Being

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Goldilocks and the Three Bears - Give Us A Story!

# data[].attributes.body
The children have been working hard to create their own small world scenes to help support their play.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Dance for the sun - Sun salutation for kids yoga

# data[].attributes.body
Exploring how the digestive system works. Millie introduced an experiment that replicates what happens in the body as we digest food. Using bread as 'food', vinegar as the 'stomach acid' and a bag acting as the 'stomach'. As the bag is squeezed the vinegar gradually breaks down the food to a mushy consistency. The contents are then poured out into a tee-towel where the liquid is squeezed out. This represents the food travelling through the intestines and turning into waste ready to come out of the body! The children and adults were all in awe at what popped out of the end of the tee-towel.

# data[].attributes.body
Olivia spent a longtime constructing a very complex structure out of magnetic tiles.

# data[].attributes.body
The second book of the term is The little red hen. It has been very well received and the children have picked up the key phrases very quickly. Staff can often hear children say aloud 'then i will do it myself'. It has also supported the value of being helpful and kind to those around us.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Little Red Hen (US English accent) - TheFableCottage.com

# data[].attributes.body
We have been practicing our subitising skills in Olive Class. Subitising is the ability to look at a small set of objects and instantly know how many are in the set without counting them.

# data[].attributes.body
Jan carefully took his time to scoop water into the pot. Upon putting the scoop back into the water, he realized small bubbles were being created. This was then the next focus on his agenda, catch and collect the bubbles!

# data[].attributes.body
We have been practicing our funky finger skills in class, using a selection of hole punchers to create different shapes in the paper.

# data[].attributes.body
We opened a baby clinic in class. Here the children carefully tended to all of the babies wants and needs.

# data[].attributes.body
Working collaboratively to create a canvas with a wide selection of small loose parts.

# data[].attributes.body
The children made vegetable soup with Kayleigh outside in the garden. It was a very warming welcome to come inside to.

# data[].attributes.body
Millie's slime station proved challenging when all the ingredients used were simply not working how she intended them to be. Together with the help of some slime experts they problem solved their way to successful slime!

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
creating 2D and 3D shapes using cocktail sticks and midget gems.

# data[].attributes.body
STEM challenges are engaging activities that promote learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on projects and problem-solving.

Overview of STEM Challenges

STEM challenges are designed to encourage creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among children. They often involve building, designing, and experimenting with various materials, making them both educational and fun.

# data[].attributes.body
Superheroes assemble!

# data[].attributes.body
Creating shapes in the slush!

# data[].attributes.body
Exploring the unexpected snowfall we were lucky enough to receive.

# data[].attributes.body
In Olive Class we like to use the smart board to enhance and offer further learning opportunities. This week the children have been using their knowledge from what they have been taught in their Maths groups and then applying this at other times in the continuous provision.

# data[].attributes.body
The cold weather prompted lots of opportunities to sit and have cosy stories with hot chocolate.

# data[].attributes.body
Superhero week proved popular with the children and back by popular demand was Millie with the face paints!

# data[].attributes.body
Volcanoes were a point of great interest for the children. Collectively the children made their own volcano using various materials. Once painted, children took it in turns to create their own volcanic eruptions.

# data[].attributes.body
The first book of the year is The Enormous Turnip.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Annie's workshop - Books Read Aloud for Kids

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Enormous Turnip (Retold by Irene Yates) I Read Aloud I Classic Tales

# data[].attributes.body
We shared some delicious party food with friends

# data[].attributes.body
It's not a party without a game of Pass the Parcel.

# data[].attributes.body
Exploring bones and fossils to help identify dinosaurs.

# data[].attributes.body
When to talk PANTS?

Every family is different, and when and where you have these conversations may depend on your child's age, or how grown up they are - it's all about whatever feels natural for you and them.

Some examples of times you can talk PANTS are:

After school – if they've had a lesson on personal relationships or Talk PANTS at school, ask them what they remember when they get home.

Bathtime – you could start a conversation when you're running your child's bath, or helping them get dressed.

Car journeys – this can be a great time to talk, and your child will have plenty of time to ask questions if they need.

Reading our new PANTS storybook together.

Singing – sing along to our PANTS song with Pantosaurus!

Swimming – a great time to say that what's covered by swimwear is private.

Walking – walking home from school, or a weekend walk to the shops can help you both feel more at ease as you stroll and chat.

Watching TV – if a TV show features a sensitive storyline, you can encourage them to talk about anything that upsets them.

For more information please go to the NSPCC website and look up PANTS.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Pantosaurus Song! | #TalkPANTS | NSPCC

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pantosuarus and the Power of PANTS with Signalong

# data[].attributes.body
The first book of the half term is Dinosaurs love underpants. The key vocabulary that we are teaching the children is: embarrassed, mystery, cavemen, history and itchy. In the continuous provision the children have been exploring dinosaur bones/fossils. Looking at footprints and investigating their size and height. Looking closely at animal fur, skins and patterns. Creating their own volcanoes and very importantly discussing the importance of PANTS with Pantosaurus.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
CHILDREN'S BOOK | Dinosaurs Love Underpants by Claire Freedman & Ben Cort | READ ALOUD

# data[].attributes.body
Woodworking Benefits

Fine Motor Skills by holding nails or screws in place

Persistence

Focus

Large Motor Skills by using arm muscles

Sharing and teamwork

Social/Emotional development through confidence, respect for materials and those working around others.

Understanding Math's through engineering skills, measurements, and size

# data[].attributes.body
Talking boxes

Is an intervention to support EAL children and those children who would benefit from speech and language support.

Our talking box groups are led by Millie.

We have been doing talking boxes at nursery for several years and the format has proved successful. These groups aim to support children to learn English in a planned and progressive way.

The groups are held twice a week with a maximum of six children in each group. The sessions run for five weeks each half term.

During this group we sing a Hello song, introduce activities, introduce book and character, have an attention activity, read the story and have another activity (related to key words), reward sticker and say Goodbye.

The books and activities are simple; teaching the children the basic words. Homework is also provided so you can support your child's learning at home.

# data[].attributes.body
Scooping out pumpkins proved successful gooey fun for some!

# data[].attributes.body
Squeezing coloured water into pipettes and then squirting it onto canvas, takes careful hand-eye co-ordination skills.

# data[].attributes.body
Plungers and brushes on bubble wrap, allows for big muscle movement, strengthening the shoulders and wrist.

# data[].attributes.body
The second core book of the term is Peace at Last. This was one of my favourite stories as a child and I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing it with your children.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Story Time Read Aloud With Funny Twins Plus One

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Peace at Last - Children's books read aloud / bedtime stories for kids.

# data[].attributes.body
Young children are naturally inquisitive, full of questions about the world around them and the drive to investigate how things work. We should take advantage of this innate curiosity and start channeling their enthusiasm for scientific discovery as early on as possible.

Benefits of Early Years Science Education:

It can foster a lifelong life for science

It gives a basic grounding in scientific concepts and thinking

Supports the development of other skills and attributes such as: working with others as part of a team, communication skills, problem-solving skills, perseverance and resilience building.

# data[].attributes.body
Science activities to try at home

# data[].attributes.body
Science activities to try at home

# data[].attributes.body
Science activities to try at home

# data[].attributes.body
Science activities to try at home

# data[].attributes.body
Funky Fingers activities are all about strengthening fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and finger dexterity in fun and engaging ways.

# data[].attributes.body
Zion walking the plank with ease! Great balancing Zion!

# data[].attributes.body
Jan is sure to keep a steady beat when playing the drums.

# data[].attributes.body
We have been practising our cutting and chopping skills; just in case a Tiger pops in for Tea!

# data[].attributes.body
Having fun with the lycra certainly stretched everyone's muscles. Th children had great fun following the instructions to different songs and provided quite the workout for all holding on!

# data[].attributes.body
An early art project of designing their own coasters proved popular. Each child that came to take part demonstrated their own arty preferences. Some children preferred to line all the tiles up in rows, while others preferred to organise by colour. Everyone had to focus carefully on how they spaced their tiles out. Once dry, we were able to display them on the wall outside, adding a flash of colour to the area!

# data[].attributes.body
Our first core book of the term is The Tiger Who Came to Tea.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
🐯 The Tiger Who Came To Tea - Kids Book Read aloud

# data[].attributes.body
Download and complete your child's culture wheel on your phone, tablet or computer and then email to admin@pasturesway.nurseryluton.com where we will print it for you.

# data[].attributes.body
I feel very fortunate this year that we have some resident make-up artists returning to Olive Class. This wonderful trio of girls will have me [and anybody else brave enough] looking glam in no time at all!

# data[].attributes.body
The children worked hard to create a large safe space for Shelley to do some free roaming on the carpet.

# data[].attributes.body
The first week has brought many opportunities for the children to explore their new learning environment. Some friends take the time to exploring the watercolours at the painting station.

# data[].attributes.body
Our Home Corner has been carefully considered and resourced to enable children to share and extend knowledge through re-enacting familiar scenarios, as well as develop imagination through creating new ideas.

# data[].attributes.body
Maths area; here children are able to:

Develop working theories using numbers in everyday contexts.

Learn to communicate mathematical concepts.

Set foundations for learning transferable skills like problem solving and reasoning.

Use construction play and loose part materials to develop early maths.

# data[].attributes.body
This area lends itself to develop children's knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Here children are exposed to resources that reflect different cultures/communities, types of transport, selection of animals and their habitats. It is also where Shelley [the tortoise] lives. Each day staff will select a 'Shelley Supervisor' and it is their job to ensure Shelley is well looked after, ensuring she has fresh food and clean water. The children can also help transport Shelley outside to her free roaming space and help remind staff when she needs to return back to her home.

# data[].attributes.body
Encouraging and supporting role-play is a fundamental aspect of early childhood development. Children use their imagination and creativity to take on different roles, from characters like doctors and chefs to imaginary figures like pirates or princesses. They act out these fantasies using their voices, actions, and available props, either on their own or in groups. Our role-play area evolves regularly depending on the children's interests.

# data[].attributes.body
Our creative area is home to the water tray, large walk-in sandpit, painting station and malleable table. This area encourages children to develop their learning by:

Expanding their vocabulary using descriptive words.

Developing hand-eye control.

Developing fine motor control and muscles needed later for writing.

Building muscle strength and control in their fingers, wrists, and arms.

Exploring new feelings, sensations, and outcomes.

Using all their senses to explore different textures

# data[].attributes.body
Our freshly 'made over' garden area provides space for the children to explore. With raised beds ready for planting, tree swings for risk taking, mud area for digging and a sensory pathway stretching the full width of the garden, the children will be spoilt for choice on how they spend their time outside.

# data[].attributes.body
The patio area is home to 'Olive's Mud Kitchen' an area that promotes sensory play, imagination, and social interaction through the use of natural materials like mud, water, sand, leaves, and sticks to create pretend foods and engage in role-play. Our Mud kitchen supports physical development by building fine and gross motor skills, boost emotional and social skills through collaborative play, and foster creativity, problem-solving, and a connection to nature.

# data[].attributes.body
Our 'Large Loose Parts Area' offers many benefits for the children, beyond motor skills, loose parts play encourages critical thinking and problem-solving. Children experiment with balance, structure, and creative uses for materials, nurturing resilience and persistence as they overcome obstacles. As the year progresses staff add more equipment/resources for the children to handle and explore.

# data[].attributes.body
Talking Takes Off aims to improve speech and communication in children from 0-5 years old in Luton.

Speech and language provide the solid foundations on which to build the best start in life.

They lead to vital skills which will guide children on a life long journey of socialising, learning and progress as well as helping them to achieve their full potential and wellbeing.

In Olive class all staff members are trained in delivering this approach with the children. If staff have concerns about your child's speech and language development, then your child's key person will have an initial conversation with you about these concerns. A plan can then be put in place with targets specifically tailored to your child and their needs. This will be reviewed after 6 weeks and parents will then be invited back to discuss the outcome and next steps.

If you would like further information about Talking Takes Off, please ask to speak to Ayesher.

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Kiera.

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Anisha and I am an Early Years Worker in Olive Class.

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Roxy.

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Millie

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Kayleigh and I am the room deputy.

# data[].attributes.body
Our curriculum is based on exploration, experiences and investigation through play. Children are encouraged to follow their own ideas with real, natural resources and loose parts. Practitioners use a blend of teaching and scaffolding to encourage children to broaden, stretch and embed their learning. Children are supported to question, explore, experiment, develop hypotheses and test ideas, and reflect their learning. During a session we use a combination of adult led and child initiated teaching running parallel. This is underpinned by detailed long term and medium term plans of progression to guide our children towards our ‘RICCHER’ vision.

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Ayesher and I am the Class Teacher. I have been working at Pastures Way for 20 years now and thoroughly enjoy working with children and their families.

# data[].attributes.body
Writing area, here children have access to a wide range of equipment that helps to support their early mark-making skills. With access to letters, they become familiar with letter names and phonemes [sounds]. Children can then use this knowledge to identify initial sounds in words and their name.