Recreation

The establishment of a daily routine is essential for young children; consistency of routine provides a sense of security for the child and encourages children to plan ahead and feel in control.  The sharing of control between adult and child is an important part of the childcare process.  Centre Staff plan the routine timetable based on their opening hours, length of session and mealtimes and it will differ from room to room. A planned daily routine in each room allows for repetition and afford children the freedom to explore, practice and gain confidence in their developing skills.  Appropriate time is given to each segment of the day and provides opportunities to play individually and in small or large groups and indoors and outdoors. Time is also allocated for children to rest, to eat and drink and to tidy up. Children are not rushed through activities but move smoothly at their own pace from one interesting experience to another. Children need to be able to predict what is likely to happen next so the order of events is planned and communicated to the child.  Predictability enables the child to prepare mentally for the next event and helps children to feel secure.  Anchor Childcare staff aid this process, by talking to the child about what is happening next, keeping the routine consistent.  Visual cues are used also in the form of photographs and drawings at the children’s level showing the sequence of events and staff in each room will have a daily routine in visual form on the wall.

The outdoor environment is an extension of our indoor learning environment and the child’s social world and many activities can be brought outside. Organised energetic activities, such as running, jumping, skipping, will be part of the curriculum in order to support children’s need for movement, co-ordination and gross motor skills development; as well as aiding physical growth such activities can be a learning area and a great reliever of built up stress or tension. Access to outdoor play, exercise and fresh air is written into each child’s daily routine so children have access to fresh air and exercise daily.

The centre has a large 2,500 sq foot outdoor playarea complete with safety surface, toys and equipment to promote physical development. A roofed section ensures use of this playspace is maximised and its available to children all year round and sports activities such as football, basketball, racing, parachute games are organised by staff on a regular basis.

As well as this we have linked in with Fingal County Council and staff have been trained in delivering Buntus, promoting physical activities for small children.

If you require any help please feel free to contact us today and we would be happy to assist you with your childcare needs.