The children are really enjoying spending time using the play dough, probably unaware of the learning that is taking place.

• They are developing their hand strength and fine motor skills that they need for writing.
• Using their imagination as the dough has endless possibilities we have seen the children make birthday cakes, ice-lollies, snails and faces.
• All of the time developing their vocabulary as they talk about what they are doing with each other.

We introduced a skills mat into the area, this has helped to develop the children’s vocabulary as they can identify and talk about the different techniques they are using.

Can you spot any of the techniques?

“Look I made an indent.”

“I’m using my hands. It flattens it.”

“What should I do next?”

“It’s gone through.”

https://stjosephsblackhall.net/2021/09/28/13472-2/

This year we didn’t gather in the usual way to celebrate Macmillan Coffee Morning, but that didn’t stop us. We gathered in class, where Isla was excited to share the cakes. The children were really good at using their manners, we heard lots of thank yous.

There were more smiles when everyone went home with a cake and a raffle ticket. I wonder who the winner will be?

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We are so proud of how quickly the children have settled into life in class 1. They are already developing independence, friendships and extending their interests.

We introduced some new blocks to our outdoor construction area today, a group of children were excited to explore these and were engaged for most of the afternoon on their project.

The children told me they were making a jail.

“Look Miss Coxon it’s higher so they can’t jump over.” Emmie

As they were building the children communicated with each other, giving instructions, listening and sharing ideas.  The jail’s design started to change as different ideas were tested and when they decided what to do they children worked together, to finish their build.

During the build things didn’t always go to plan. Some of the planks didn’t balance and some of the bricks fell over. The group were very resilient and embraced these challenges. Once finished the group were extremely proud of what they had achieved.

It has been lovely to welcome children both old and new into class 1. They have all enjoyed exploring our environment.

https://stjosephsblackhall.net/2021/09/08/13303-2/