When children are exposed to a wide range of thought-provoking experiences and encouraged to make their own decisions, they will take responsibility for their learning. Marion Dowling shows how.

Babies, toddlers and children arriving new to a setting need a predictable and familiar environment. When they get to know what to expect in the layout of the surroundings, the resources available to them and the organisation of the day, this gives them confidence and a sense of control over what they are doing.

This sense of control is fundamental in order for children to start to branch out. However, there is a fine dividing line between the predictable and the humdrum. An unchanging environment and dull, repetitive routine results in a bored child and a ceiling being placed on their thinking. Skilled practitioners recognise when a child needs additional stimulus.

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