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The Upstairs Kindergarten
The Upstairs Kindergarten is a slightly smaller group catering to the needs of children aged two and a half to five. We welcome children on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings from 9.15am -1pm, and the children have the option to join the afternoon group in the downstairs room until 3pm. The rhythm of the day, the week and the seasons gives form and structure and promotes a sense of security and self-confidence.
Our Daily Rhythm
Arrival time ~ 9:15am
The children are welcome to join in the morning activity or to help with the daily preparation of snack, and then join their friends in free, creative play.
Circle Time
We gather for circle time where we move together to sing songs, have stories and games, all learned through imitation. Finger games and counting rhymes continue whilst the children take turns to go to the toilet and wash their hands with the teaching assistants.
Snack Time
We sit at the table to enjoy a healthy snack that the children have helped to prepare. We use organic ingredients whenever possible. During this time there is an opportunity for the children to share their news and listen to each other.
Garden Time
We get ready to play in the garden spending an hour outside, whatever the weather. We have a mud kitchen, a play house, a sandpit, there is a raised bed to tend to and plenty of space for the children to explore.
Story Time
We finish the morning with story time. The teacher knows the story by heart and it is repeated daily for the course of the week so that the children can begin to truly understand it. Stories are chosen carefully to reflect the seasons and carry themes that will support the children’s social and emotional understanding.
Home Time ~ 1:00 pm
At 1:00 we will then say our goodbyes to those children not staying for the afternoon.
Afternoon, 1pm - 3:00pm
Lunch Time
Children staying for the afternoon will have a home cooked vegetarian meal. We use organic ingredients whenever possible.
Rest Time
The children will have a short rest time with books while the teacher quietly plays the lyre.
Free Play
Children lead imaginative play inside or outside. Drawing and crafts are also provided.
Home Time
At 3:00pm we will sing our goodbyes and all go home.
Our Weekly Rhythm
Day
Activity
Snack
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Seasonal Craft
Baking
Modelling
Making soup
Milet biscuits, fruit
Porridge with honey and sunflower seeds, fruit
Bread and honey, fruit
Soup and oatcakes, fruit
Lunch
Pasta with tomato sauce and cheese
Rice and toasted seeds with soya sauce, vegetable sticks
Dhal and Rice, fruit
Wraps and hummus, vegetable sticks, fruit
We offer rosehip tea and water to drink with every snack