Our babies are beginning to move onto the next stage when, as well as enjoying the care, hugs and fun of their first room, they are starting to show a greater sense of adventure, a need to explore social connections which turn into friendships as they progress through nursery. They will build on the activities they started in Apples and Pears; using different materials to mark make, exploring sand and water and joining in with and starting to dance to stories, songs and music. Their grasp of hand/eye co-ordination will become stronger and the garden will provide plenty of opportunities to develop physical abilities while they are having fun in the fresh air. The children are encouraged and supported throughout the day. They are talked to and listened to; they are helped and encouraged in their journey towards independence, learning to wash their own hands and faces, and showing growing pride in their ability to feed themselves. A developing empathy towards others is strongly encouraged with an emphasis on turn taking and sharing and the boundaries that are in place, with encouragement and support, help to make good behaviour the norm.
Cherries and Strawberries Rooms
Margaret Carter: Cherries Head of Room
As one of our Senior members of staff, Margaret has been employed at Monkton since 1993 and joined Monkton straight from school. She has gained valuable experience with each of the age groups, and recently moved back to the younger range, where she offers a warm and stimulating day to our youngest children. She has made sure that the room is a lively and exciting place to be, where the children are encouraged to grow, learn and become more independent, but where hugs and cuddles are still freely available. She is also a mother to Isabella.
Parent"We cannot thank you enough for all you have done for F in the past year. You have not just looked after her but loved and nurtured her too which we are so grateful for. F has made a lovely bond with all of the girls in Cherries and has lovely things to say about all of you."