In Reception there is a strong focus on child initiated learning. We work this way because…
‘Young children are experiencing and learning in the here and now, not storing up their questions until tomorrow or next week. It is in that moment of curiosity, puzzlement, effort or interest – the ‘teachable moment’ – that the skillful adult makes a difference. By using this cycle on a moment-by-moment basis, the adult will always be alert to individual children (observation), always thinking about what it tells us about the child’s thinking (assessment), and always ready to respond by using appropriate strategies at the right moment to support children’s well-being and learning.’
From National Standards document Learning, Playing and Interacting p22-23
We have focus children NOT focus activities.
The adult goes to the child NOT called to come to the adult.
Although we follow the child’s lead and recognise each child’s different starting points, below are some of the key aspects of a child’s development that we would be encouraging through play each term.