Is school the best place for two year olds?

OFSTED head Sir Michael Wilshaw says the best place for two year olds is school. Where, he suggests they should be taught numeracy, literacy and pen control.

Is there really evidence to support this, knowing that many other countries, which start formal education later, fare much better with literacy and numeracy than we do?

Do schools have the capacity to cater for the needs of two year olds, which are emotionally and developmentally very different to those of four year olds? Would it not be better to focus upon supporting and developing the existing preschools, nurseries and childminders who do a very good job?

It is widely agreed by educationalists that children in the early years learn best through play. Their first educational experiences should be managed carefully to foster a lifelong love of learning.

Play B C Progress

The Ward Room at St Elphege's Church has had a face lift. Walls have been insulated, radiators covered and a new floor has been laid. Looks like it will be a fab new home for our preschool.

Stages of art development

Follow this link to find out more about stages of development in children's art.
http://www.users.totalise.co.uk/~kbroom/Lectures/children.htm

Some of the jargon is a bit technical but it nicely sets out just how much hard work and skill has gone into your budding Rembrandt's latest masterpiece.

Upcoming events

Avast ye land lubbers!
An open day is planned for July 24th between 10.00 and 12.00. Captain Cutlass will be there too for some pirate themed fun. Come along for a cuppa and to meet the team.

Easter treats

Why not make time honoured Easter nests. You can use shredded wheat, cornflakes or our personal favourite, rice krispies. You will need one part cereal to three parts cooking chocolate, so if you've got two 150g bars you'll need 100g cereal and 50g butter. This makes about 15 nests.
Break the chocolate into a bowl over a pan of simmering hot water (the bottom of the bowl shouldn't touch the water). Add butter and a couple of tablespoons of golden syrup. You can use the microwave, but it never seems to work for me! Once melted stir in the cereal, mix well and spoon into cake cases. Top with mini eggs. Chill in the fridge until set. Yum!