GJPA– Early Years
Dear Parents
As you will see there is weekly planning on our website for the Reception children, however we do not want you to stress over this as we appreciate how every family is in a different situation. The planning is there for a guide and suggestions of activities. Young children do not need to be working at a table writing or completing work sheets all day, this is not how we would normally operate in school and we know that children learn best through play and meaningful conversations. Should you have any concerns please do not hesitate to contact us through our direct school email.
How to help young children learn at home
You can help your child to learn through the little things you do with them, for example:
- everyday conversations
- make-believe play
- games with numbers or letters
- reading together
- involving them in the things you are doing, such as household chores, and talking with them about it Find ideas for new things you can try at Hungry Little Minds.
You do not need to set separate time or plan complicated activities dedicated to learning. These activities can be built into everyday life and play.
You know your child best. Avoid forcing them into lengthy planned activities if they naturally respond better to a mix of shorter activities. This can stop them getting bored or frustrated and keep them active, interested and learning through things they enjoy.
Keeping a routine
Do not worry about trying to keep to the full routine that your child had in nursery or reception class. However, children will feel more comfortable with a predictable routine, so try to make sure they:
- get up and go to bed at the same time each day
- have regular meal times turn off any electronic devices, including the television, at least an hour before bedtime, keeping active
Young children should be active for at least 3 hours a day in total.
It’s also good to get some fresh air every day. If you do not have a garden and are taking children outside to exercise, make sure you follow the rules on social distancing.
While inside, there are plenty of things you can do to keep children active, such as:
- playing hide-and-seek
- seeing who can do the most star jumps
- making an obstacle course playing music and having a dance-off
Mrs K. Lane – EYFS Lead
