We are part of a wonderful, international community of Early Years practitioners who have a wealth of knowledge and a HUGE bank of ideas and activities, so let's share them!

This collection of activities/ideas is simply here to help parents and carers find fun things to do if they find themselves unexpectedly at home with younger children.

Most of the ideas have an educational slant but we believe that learning when you're little should be play based.

So much quality learning can come from activities like helping with the washing, doing some gardening, baking, watching films, colouring, playing board games, writing letters to friends and relatives, reading stories, talking and just spending time together!

I also wanted our bank of ideas to be simple enough for most people to do at home, with items they already have. I have tried to avoid using ideas that involve food and any that I have included, like playdough, are multi-use and can be made using produce that is out of date.

If you would like to contribute to this collection please email me your activity ideas to alistair@abcdoes.com

All you need to do is send the information and a photograph and I will do the rest.

Welcome to Play It!

Get started with Play It! and explore the different elements that make up a song, play or clap along with the music and make then listen back to your own version of songs

Play It! contains five songs with more to come soon.

Get musical with I am a Robot, Hands in the Air, Take You Home, Be in the Band, Bring the Noise and Spooky World.

Follow the in game instructions to explore the three different modes.

This tool is suitable for both teachers in the classroom and children to use independently.

Play It! is suitable for teaching music at EYFS and Key Stage 1 in England, Foundation in Wales, Early Years and Foundation KS1 in Northern Ireland and Early and First Level in Scotland.

Have you checked out ⁦‪Michael Rosen‬⁩'s YouTube channel? It's packed full of amazing poems and stories narrated by the acclaimed author. One of many amazing resources recommended on our Family Zone!

EYFSHome is a totally free daily programme of organised, accessible, educational and entertaining activities, linked to the national EYFS curriculum. We are already working with broadcast organisations and sporting bodies to involve high quality content and well-known celebrities and experts to make the activities as engaging as possible.

PE For Young Children

Things to do

Browse our range of free, printable worksheets and activities that will keep your little ones busy for hours! Children will love the simple designs and favourite characters whilst also learning too. Don't forget to share your creations with us on social using #OrchardToys!