Investigation Hub and Discovery Hub at Deckham

Our autumn exploration has continued this week, with the children becoming increasingly curious about the changes happening in the world around them.

We have been sharing the story ‘Leaf Man’ and looking closely at the creatures made from leaves in the illustrations. The children have enjoyed spotting the different animals and talking about what they can see.

Inspired by the story, we have created some of our own leaf collages using leaves and other natural materials. The children have explored different shapes, textures and colours as they selected materials and arranged them to create their own pictures and creatures.

Our Investigation Hub children have been using natural materials alongside balance scales to explore the concept of weight. We have introduced simple mathematical language such as heavy and light, encouraging the children to notice what happens when different objects are placed into the scales. They have been particularly interested in watching the scales move and noticing when the two sides become balanced. These hands-on experiences are helping the children to develop their understanding of mathematical concepts through play and investigation.

We have also taken our autumn exploration into our physical play. The children enjoyed bouncing leaves on lycra while singing ‘Autumn Leaves Are Falling Down’. This was an opportunity to combine music, movement and language. There was plenty of excitement as the children worked together to make the leaves bounce!

Construction play continues to be a key interest. The children have been using wooden blocks to create a wonderful variety of structures, including houses and dinosaurs. They have also been exploring boxes and other recycled materials, experimenting with how they can join different pieces together. We have seen lots of creativity as children have worked collectively to make rocket ships, boats and other creations.

Throughout the year, our older children will be enjoying books linked to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and different job roles within this. We have begun this journey with ‘Topsy and Tim Go to the Doctor’. After sharing the story, the children explored doctor role-play equipment, giving them the opportunity to act out their own experiences and ideas. Through role play, children can develop their communication and language skills, build confidence and begin to explore the different roles people have within our community.

Story of the week: Leaf Man

Song of the week: Autumn Leaves are Falling Down

Signs of the week: Look / listen

Parents as partners

We have noticed a big change to the conditions in our outdoor area this week – with the rain and leaves on the floor, the ground is becoming more muddy. If possible, please can you send a named pair of wellies to Nursery with your child, that they can keep here at Nursery for outdoor play.

Please can you ensure they bring a warm, waterproof coat to Nursery, that also has their name in.

Every child should please have one spare pair of clothes at Nursery for if they need to get changed. This is increasingly the case when we are accessing the outdoor areas for all-weather play and clothes can get wet and muddy.

Thank you for your continued support.

The Deckham Team