In January, our Nursery children have been thoroughly enjoying our topic, Polar Regions. Through a range of engaging, play-based learning experiences, the children have been developing their vocabulary, knowledge and understanding of Winter and Arctic environments.
The children have learned about a variety of polar animals, including polar bears, seals, Arctic foxes, walruses and penguins. They explored how these animals survive in extremely cold climates and discussed how we keep ourselves warm during Winter by wearing suitable clothing such as hats, scarves, gloves and coats.
Our learning was enhanced through a range of practical activities. In the water area, the children investigated ice by rescuing frozen polar animals and explored the properties of ice and water, using descriptive language such as cold, wet, hard and slippery. They also explored cause and effect by creating slides for penguins and making predictions about how speed and movement could be changed.
As part of our science learning, we carried out an experiment to investigate how polar animals stay warm in icy conditions. The children learned about blubber and discovered how it helps protect animals from the cold through a hands-on investigation.
In the construction area, the children designed and built igloos using a variety of materials, developing their creativity, problem-solving skills and fine motor control. Role-play activities allowed the children to take on the role of Inuit people, fishing for food and cooking around a campfire, helping to develop their imagination and understanding of different ways of life.
The children also enjoyed creating Arctic worlds in the sand area, making dens and habitats for their animals, while at the creative table they worked collaboratively to produce a beautiful Winter collage using cool colours and a range of materials.
To further develop fine motor skills and independence, the children created Arctic animals and patterns with dough, practised spreading and cutting skills, and prepared their own snacks. They particularly enjoyed making polar bear biscuits and creating their own pizzas, spreading tomato purée, adding toppings and tasting their finished creations.
Throughout the topic, the children have demonstrated great enthusiasm for learning, developed their scientific thinking, extended their vocabulary and strengthened their independence through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
