Communication and Language

Communication and Language is one of the prime areas of learning and development in the EYFS framework.

This area of the curriculum involves giving children opportunities to speak and listen in a range of situations, and to develop their confidence and skills in expressing themselves.

Helicopter Story Telling

Helicopter Stories is an approach based on the work of kindergarten teacher and early childhood education researcher Vivian Gussin Paley. It is an Early Years, Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 approach to communication and literacy skills based on the Storytelling and Story Acting curriculum.

In its simplest form, Helicopter Stories lets children dictate their stories which are written down verbatim, exactly as they are told, by an EYFS or Key Stage 1 practitioner. The children then gather around a taped out stage and the stories are acted out.

The Benefits:

• An inclusive, whole-class approach which values every child’s contribution.
• Facilitates high levels of engagement.
• Creates confidence and self-assurance.
• Supports the development of speaking skills as children express and share their ideas.
• Helps to develop accurate, active listening skills and understanding.
• Supports co-operative and collaborative and creative learning.
• Develops positive relationships within a shared storytelling experience.