These are kept at child level so the child has freedom to
choose their own activity. Children of this age love to repeat an activity a number of
times before moving on to a new one.
The Book Corner provides nursery rhymes, picture-books and
great story books which provide stimulus and education for a young mind. This part
of the playgroup is essential for their language development. A significant portion of a
persons vocabulary is developed between the ages 2 to 6 years. The stories are usually
short and simple.
Opportunity for family play takes place in the "home
corner" which helps children to act out the fears and fantasies of every day life
like coming to terms with a new baby, going to hospital, visiting the Doctor or Dentist.
Waterplay I find invaluable. How often do we, as
parents tell our children not to splash in the puddles? How often does a young child ask
to help with the washing up or wash dolly’s clothes? As adults we appreciate
the delights of a warm bath to soothe away the cares of the day. Water has a great
therapeutic value. Children love to experiment with it.
In
water they discover what floats and what sinks. They practice pouring and measuring and
can play happily without the fear of being scolded for making a mess. We also have a
nature table.
