The children in Hippos and Giraffes have made a fantastic start to the school year. Returning children and those who are new to the centre have been settling in well, getting to know their surroundings, routines and each other.
Singing has been a lovely way to help everyone feel part of the group. The children have been enjoying hello and goodbye songs, helping them to become familiar with each other’s names while developing their listening, communication and confidence.
Animals have also been a big focus. The children have been learning the names of different animals and exploring the noises they make. Stories including Dear Zoo and Doing the Animal Bop have supported this interest, and the children have now started sharing Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?. Favourite songs such as Old MacDonald Had a Farm, Down in the Jungle and Five Little Monkeys have provided even more opportunities to explore sounds, words, rhythm and repetition.
During group times, the children have also been developing their fine motor skills through lots of hands-on play. Building with Duplo, magnetic bricks and small wooden bricks encourages children to use their hands with increasing control while experimenting with construction. The children have also enjoyed fitting puzzle pieces into pegboards, supporting their concentration, coordination and problem-solving skills.
We also had the fantastic opportunity to watch The Travelling Light Theatre Company at the Wellspring Settlement. We engaged in some open-ended play, listened to music, and moved together. The performers then went to the stage to perform whilst we watched. The show was amazing, and the children did very well with their participation and attention skills.
It has been a busy and enjoyable start for Hippos and Giraffes, with lots of opportunities to learn through stories, songs and play.
