Through songs, rhymes, stories and circle time, children will have lots of fun listening, joining in and learning new words. We will encourage children to use simple words and phrases to share their ideas, needs and feelings.

As we explore our “All About Me” theme, children will learn words about their bodies, families, daily routines and the people who are important to them.

Our cosy story times will help children discover the joy of books and stories. Children will enjoy listening to favourite stories, looking at pictures, turning pages and joining in with familiar words and actions.

During circle time, children will have opportunities to sing, talk, listen and learn together, helping them to build confidence and feel part of our Playgroup community.

We will also provide opportunities for children to draw, paint and explore different mark-making tools, supporting their early communication, reading and writing skills through play.

Block One will help children settle into Playgroup routines and begin to feel confident, secure and happy in their new environment. Through gentle routines, songs, circle times and opportunities to play alongside others, children will begin to build friendships, recognise their own feelings and develop a sense of belonging. We will encourage children to become more independent and to learn how to share, take turns and care for others.

Key Learning:

• Begin to see themselves as a valued member of the group.

• Develop positive relationships with familiar adults and other children.

• Begin to recognise and express their feelings.

• Develop confidence and independence within familiar routines.

• Begin to share, take turns and play cooperatively.

Children will have lots of opportunities to move, explore and develop their physical skills through indoor and outdoor play. Running, climbing, balancing and navigating different spaces will help children develop coordination, strength and spatial awareness. In the classroom, activities such as play dough, kinetic sand, threading and mark-making will strengthen children’s hands and fingers, preparing them to use tools with increasing control and confidence.

Development Matters:

• Revise and refine fundamental movement skills.

• Develop small motor skills to use tools effectively.

• Develop core strength to support posture and stability.

Starting Playgroup is an exciting step for your child. You can help them feel confident and ready for school by building independence, communication and physical skills through everyday routines and play. There is no need for formal teaching — simple, consistent opportunities at home make a big difference.

Personal, Social and Emotional Development

• Encourage your child to separate from you for short periods with trusted adults.

• Practise simple routines such as tidying toys and putting belongings away.

• Encourage sharing, turn-taking and playing alongside others.

• Help your child name and talk about simple feelings.

• Give your child opportunities to make choices and do things independently.

• Encourage them to ask an adult for help when they need it.

Communication and Language

• Talk, sing and read together every day.

• Encourage your child to listen to and follow simple instructions.

• Give them plenty of time to talk and express their needs and ideas.

• Introduce new vocabulary through everyday experiences, stories and play.

• Encourage your child to listen when others are speaking and take turns in conversations.

Physical Development

• Provide plenty of opportunities for running, climbing, jumping, balancing and dancing.

• Encourage independence with dressing, shoes, handwashing and using the toilet.

• Let your child practise using a spoon and fork and drinking from an open cup.

• Develop hand strength through play dough, drawing, threading, building and using child-safe tools.

• Encourage your child to carry and look after their own belongings.

Remember: school readiness is about helping children become confident, independent and ready to engage with others, rather than being able to complete a particular list of academic skills. Small steps and lots of encouragement will help your child make a positive start to Playgroup.