Leaves are everywhere in autumn and all children, whether in urban or rural settings, can catch them, collect them, feel them, smell them, kick them about and generally enjoy them. This makes the theme of leaves an ideal one that provides children with a wide range of experiences as they explore and investigate the natural world. Support and guidance from adults can help children make the most of these experiences and enhance their learning.
Awake children's interest in leaves by suspending an autumn leaf mobile near an interactive display of different leaves. Laminate some of the leaves so that they retain their colour for a while. Encourage families to contribute to the leaf collection, and use a range of textures for the signs and notices so that adults can draw children's attention to them. Use the notices to involve the whole community - for example, 'These are leaves from the tree that grows outside Hamish's house'. Make sure that the displays are at child height and that the children are involved in putting them together and adding to them on a daily basis.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
