As the seasons change, so do some of the children who come to play.   We say a sad goodbye to those who have left and now welcome those new children and their families. WINTER HAS ARRIVED As the last of the leaves fall to the ground, they all snuggle together and become part of Winter's carpet.  Winter is the season of dormancy, or inactivity. Some animals hibernate.  Some plants die and leave their seeds, while others stop growing until spring.  Winter is the coldest seaso

Winter.  The longest night is approaching, when we can all discover the magic of the winter solstice.  The 21st December is the day when the night is actually longer than the day.  So, we have the least amount of sunlight on that day.  Because after the solstice the days begin to grow longer. There is so much magic which surrounds us in the winter months.  Just take a moment and let your inner child see the wonder that is all around us when we venture outdoors.  Are you a wea

PEDAGOGY My pedagogy begins with the principles of the EYFS as the core framework to which elements from the Curiosity Approach, Steiner, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Pikler & Ta Whariki are added; then all woven together with STEM Learning and Hygge's wellbeing and togetherness to create the inclusive, strengthened pedagogy that truly supports and encompasses the unique developmental journey of every child. VISION To provide a rich, inspiring nature-based environment with an e

Mindful rhythm is not created based on the clock or on an idea of what we should be doing at set times. Children and babies transition seamlessly throughout their day with a rhythm – unhurried and unrushed by set times.  As easy and natural as breathing in and out. A rhythm rather than a routine allows us to move at a slower pace which affords flexibility and spontaneity.    A rhythm for one family won’t look or work the same as another’s. There is a predictability to life th

Makaton is the use of signs and symbols to help people communicate and is designed to support the development of spoken language.   Makaton signs are based on the gestures from British Sign Language. However, unlike BSL, Makaton signs are used alongside speech at all times to promote the use of speech as well as gesture. This means that eventually the use of signs and symbols can be reduced as the child develops their speech. Studies have shown that babies have the ability t

The days may be getting shorter, the weather a little wetter, definitely a bit colder and yes, a lot muddier but despite all of this – I absolutely love the start of Autumn.   The stunning explosion of colour in the trees as the leaves change from greens through yellow, oranges, reds and browns is just breathtaking.  We are visually blessed as we look around us. The intricate branches just starting to peek through as they wait for the last leaf to fall so that they can have t

As the seasons change, so do some of the children who come to play.   We now welcome those new children and their families. The changing season is a reminder that change is a natural part of life and that we should all embrace it together. AUTUMN IS HERE! The year seems to be flying by so quickly. After a summer filled with lots of wonderful adventures, we are all looking forward to Autumn and the unknown quests waiting to be discovered. Autumn is filed with so many great si