Tale Tool Kit, Phonological Awareness and Write Dance
Ms Stephanie Lewis
Nursery Teacher / Personal, Social and Emotional Development and Indusion Lead
In our nursery programme, we have introduced three initiatives to develop and enhance children's communication and understanding skills.
One of these initiatives is the Tale Tool Kit, which helps children grasp the structure of stories, including elements like characters, settings, problems, and solutions. With the use of various props, children can unleash their imagination to create and tell their own stories. This activity not only fosters creativity but also teaches patience and turn-taking, which is particularly beneficial in small-group settings. These activities will contribute significantly to their early communication development. ☛ Learn More
Another key initiative is the Phonological Awareness program, which introduces children to letters and the different sounds they make. The children really enjoy this activity, which starts with a "red box" game where they chant "knock knock, what's in the box?" and then take turns picking out objects, naming them, and pronouncing their sounds. Following this, we listen to a song related to the letter and sound of the week. This initial stage of phonics lays a solid foundation for the children's phonics education in the subsequent year.
Lastly, we have the Write Dance programme, where we use a variety of different materials to encourage children to make movements to music or their favourite songs using foam, ribbon, or chalk. This helps develop their fine and gross motor skills, preparing their muscles for writing. Through these fun and engaging activities, we aim to build a strong foundation for the children's future learning experiences.
It's very important to respond to the children to ensure that our programs cater to their individual interests and needs. By observing and listening to the children, we can tailor activities that not only engage them but also promote a sense of ownership in their learning journey. Our goal is to create an inclusive and stimulating environment that encourages exploration and self-expression.
By integrating these initiatives—Tale Tool Kit, Phonological Awareness, and Write Dance—into our daily routines, we build a comprehensive framework that supports the holistic development of communication and motor skills. These foundational experiences are crucial for their future academic success and personal growth, laying a strong groundwork for their continued education. Through active participation and hands-on learning, we aim to nurture confident, articulate, and imaginative young learners.