outdoor play

When we think of sensory play we often think logically to the five main senses; sight, smell, touch, sound and taste. We can create a plethora of scented potion play set ups, introducing smell and touch into fun festivities. We can use lights, and glow sticks, balloons filled with rice, messy outdoor painting boards and more. When thinking of outdoor...

Den building can be so much fun, for adults as well as children. This holds value in its own right - we want children to experience activities which excite and motivate them. What is so great about den play though is the influence it can have on all areas of development. However, for this blog, we will just be focusing...

Have you heard of International Mud Day? This year International Mud Day will be held on the 29th of June. It is a perfect opportunity for children and adults to get down in the mud and have a great time. But, did you know, that this celebration has a deeper meaning to address world problems like lack of access to...

A Mud Kitchen is a must in an early years setting. Children love to create their own dishes with natural treasures, such as mud, flowers, herbs, stones and sticks. Add recipe cards and create an area where children can be engaged and involved in their play for a long period of time. With an array of mud kitchens to choose...

Water play can be immensely fun for children but at the same time has a tremendous impact on communication and language development. We know that the focus on this area of development is particularly important following the publication of the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). When children play with water, it is very much a social experience - just...

In recent years, outdoor play and adventures has become a priority for many families! We have all learned why... Being in nature and the great outdoors is great for our health, wellbeing and for connecting with this beautiful planet we all call home.  Here are 5 simple activities that you can do with your child in the great outdoors, perhaps...

We know that reading helps pupils to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually and socially. We also know that phonics is a key element in helping children to become successful readers. Phonics is a method that helps children decode words using phonemes. Before we get to the fun part, let’s cover some basic terminology. Phonics outdoors Phonics - Phonics teaches children to listen...

The scope for Physical Development has changed considerably in recent times - no longer meaning football for boys and netball for girls. This aspect of physical education is now much more diverse and inclusive, incorporating a range of activities, resources and opportunities. We are losing the stereotypes, opening up the sports experience to many more children. @homeplaylearn We better understand...

Children love construction play. As they play, they are building a myriad of skills which feed into all areas of learning and development in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Construction play, however, should never be limited just to the EYFS - not only is it fun but can impact on learning linked to the National Curriculum. Please see links...

Sand and water play are vital sensory experiences for early years and beyond. They lend themselves well to the hands on learning style which appeals to most children. The learning potential is huge but these areas of provision can sometimes needs a little inspiration. We hope that the ideas in this blog will inspire you with your sand and water...