Provision to enable and challenge the youngest children to direct their own learning is carefully thought out at a centre visited by Nicole Weinstein.

It's 9am. Mozart music is playing in the background and Sam is sitting in the hanging chair watching the other children play. Cora is in the tent tending the dolls, Lucas is painting at the easel and Amelie and Aisling are in the garden watching the wrens nesting.

This is a typical after-breakfast scene at the baby room at Archway Children's Centre in the London borough of Islington. The children, aged 11 months to two years, toddle and crawl confidently between the quiet area, workshop space and outdoors.

Every detail in the baby room, from the selection of double primary colours in the paint pots to the adult-style drinking cups, has been designed to challenge the under-twos and promote their independence.

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

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here