Diwali Celebrations in Nursery 17.10.22-21.10.22

 

Diwali celebrations in Nursery 

We have been busy learning about Diwali this week. 

We made lanterns, Diya Lamps, firework pictures and have been learning about the story Peppa's Diwali.

Our Diya Lamps 

We made Diya Lamps using clay. The children followed step-by-step instructions to manipulate the clay to make their lamp. We had to be very patient while the clay dried and set. There are many reasons why we use clay in Nursery here are a few of them;

1. Encourages sensory development 
   Clay play is a multi-sensory hobby: touch, sight, smell—and even sound.  Is it slimy or dry?  What does it sound like when you squeeze it?  Children can strengthen sensory skills as they learn to manipulate the material into different objects and shapes.  
2. Develops coordination and motor skills 
   It also helps improve eye/hand coordination and build both gross and fine motor skills, including the small muscles in hands and fingers.  This helps with dexterity and is beneficial for children colouring, cutting and writing in a school setting.
3. It’s therapeutic 
   Clay play can be a very invigorating, yet soothing activity.  Working the clay is a positive way to express emotions, a good stress-reliever and, since it’s generally an unhurried activity, also a calming pastime for kids.
4. Extends attention span
   It’s so different from other mediums, like drawing, that children are naturally drawn to experiment with this fun material.  And because clay is so adaptable, mistakes can usually be repaired so kids don’t feel frustrated.  In fact, clay can be so engaging they may play for long periods of time without any adult involvement!
5. Builds imagination 
   Many toys are developed for imaginary play, but not many let children dream up and create something entirely new.  Clay stimulates curiosity, motivates them to problem-solve as they work on their project, and ultimately leads them to craft unique three-dimensional art.  That’s pretty cool.  
6. Boosts self-esteem
   The best part?  Children can make something out of nothing.  The bowl may not be perfectly round or the truck may not look much like a truck, but they made it. Kids not only feel proud of what they brought to life, but also a sense of accomplishment.

Once our Diya lamps dried, we painted them using bright colours

We hope you enjoy lighting your candle in your Diya Lamp at home!

Our Lanterns

We made snips in paper with scissors to make a paper lantern. We had to concentrate really hard to make sure we cut in a straight line... It is really important that we practice using scissors because it;

1. Builds hand strength – Opening and closing scissors helps children build up the small muscles in their hands. These muscles are important for everyday activities such as drawing, using cutlery, brushing your teeth and getting dressed.
2. Develops hand-eye coordination – Children learn to watch where they are cutting, using their eyes to guide how they should move next. This is important for activities such as playing sports, getting dressed and cooking.
3. Learn to use both sides of their body – Cutting encourages children to do different things with each side of their body – one hand holds the paper whilst the other hand holds the scissors. This is called “bilateral coordination” and is important for everyday activities such as zipping up coats and trousers, doing the dishes and writing.
4. Improve attention – Using scissors to cut out shapes or cut along a line takes concentration and attention to detail. The ability to pay attention for longer and longer periods of time is important to be able to listen and learn in the classroom, read books and ride a bike.

Peppa's Diwali

We have been reading the story 'Peppa's Diwali'. This is to develop the children's understanding of Diwali celebrations.

Important Reminders

•  Half term is Monday 24th October- Friday 28th October
• Monday 31st October is an inset day, Nursery is closed. 
• Nursery stay and learn Monday 28th November.

Home learning challenge

This weeks home learning challenge is to practice putting on and taking your own coat off by yourself. Some of you may even want to learn to do a zip up by yourself.

Have a wonderful Half term,

Thank you for all of your support this half term,

The Nursery Team