This week, the sunshine has encouraged lots of learning and activity in our outdoor environment. The mud kitchen has been particularly busy, full of mathematical thinking and collaborative play. Children have been negotiating space, exploring capacity and volume, and working together to create some wonderful mud cakes and pies, which were proudly shared and enjoyed.

We have been talking about how the sun is becoming warmer as spring progresses and noticing how quickly the plants are growing and shooting up. I had a fantastic group of helpers in the garden who enthusiastically pulled out weeds, excitedly discovered the odd carrot, and confidently recalled the different parts of a plant. We found lots of long, “hairy” roots and talked about their important job.

Developing strong muscles and hand–eye coordination was evident as the children raked up weeds, swept them into the pan, and carefully carried them over to the compost pile.

At the top of the EYFS garden, the children have been exploring the new large loose parts area. There has been lots of den building and investigation, with children working together to solve problems, communicate their ideas, and decide how best to use the different materials available. Teamwork, creativity and perseverance were clear to see.