Daily Routine & Activities 

Morning Arrival

Children arrive at either 8:00am or 9:00am. Early mornings are calm and welcoming, helping children settle in comfortably. As soon as they arrive, children are encouraged to:

• Place their lunch boxes in the lunchbox crate

• Take off their shoes and put them in the shoe box

• Hang up their coats

• Choose their name tags and place them on our attendance board

• Update the weather poster, observing the day’s conditions

These routines support independence, self-care skills, and recognition of their own names, helping children feel confident and in control from the very start of the day.

Storytime is a favourite morning activity, with children often listening to The Gruffalo or other engaging stories. From the moment they arrive, children have access to a variety of activities designed to support learning across all areas of development. These include:

• Sensory and Exploration: Treasure trays, themed sensory activities, farm play, and tactile play experiences.

• Books and Storytelling: Engaging with stories such as The Gruffalo and The Colour Monster.

• Arts and Crafts: Free-flow creative play and structured projects, seasonal crafts, and festive creations.

• Building and Construction: Blocks, Duplo, and other materials linked to colours, shapes, and imaginative play.

• Role Play and Imaginative Play: Weekly or bi-weekly themed boxes, including babies, shops, construction, and community play.

• Music and Movement: Songs, dances, and interactive musical activities.

• Puppets and Soft Toys: Storytelling, imaginative play, and social skill development.

• Mark-Making and Writing: Easel drawing, chalk, pens, and other opportunities to practise early literacy and creative expression.

• Cooking and Baking: Decorating cakes for Valentine’s Day, making pancakes on Pancake Day, and other food-based activities.

These activities are available throughout the day, allowing children to engage in learning, creativity, and play at times that suit their individual rhythms and interests.

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Morning Snack

Once the 9:00am arrivals have joined, we enjoy a healthy morning snack. This varies daily and takes into account dietary requirements and allergies. Current favourites include fresh fruit with yoghurt for dipping and organic rice cakes. These snacks encourage healthy eating habits and provide a social opportunity for conversation and sharing.

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Outdoor and Community Time

After snack, depending on the day, we may go for a walk or visit local community spaces such as parks, shops, toddler groups, or the pond to feed the ducks. These outings foster curiosity, social skills, and a connection with the wider community.

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Lunchtime

Lunch is served between 11:15am and 11:30am and typically lasts around an hour. Children enjoy sitting together at the table or, when weather allows, under the gazebo for a picnic-style meal. Lunchtime is a relaxed, social time for chatting, practising manners, and encouraging communication skills.

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Afternoon Rest

After lunch, children enjoy a rest or a nap suited to their individual needs and routines. Upon waking, they practise independence by tidying their blankets and mats and putting away personal items. I always try to limit dummies to rest and nap times, but this does of course depend on the age of the child and their specific needs.

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Afternoon Activities

The afternoon continues with the wide range of activities described above. Children have the freedom to explore, play, and learn through creative projects, sensory play, role play, music, and more, building on the experiences from the morning. All activities are adapted to suit children’s interests and developmental stages, ensuring learning is meaningful, enjoyable, and engaging every day.

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Special Outings

Usually once per term, we plan special trips, such as visits to soft play, Sea Life London, Shrek’s Adventure, or Bird World. These outings provide exciting experiences, build confidence, and create lasting memories.

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End of Day

Collection times are at 4:30pm and 5:00pm. Children follow a familiar end-of-day routine, helping to tidy up activities and participating in fun sessions such as music or dance parties. This routine ensures a positive, happy finish to the day, with children leaving smiling and engaged.