Enabling Environments: Tried and Tested - Think small

DOLLS HOUSE
PAPERPOD CARDBOARD CREATIONS
AGE RANGE: 3+
PRICE: £26.95
CONTACT: 01424 893709
www.paperpod.co.uk

This playhouse is made from strong, corrugated recycled cardboard and is open-fronted for easy access. It measures 70cm x 38cm x 84cm and can be folded away when not in use.

Tested by Worlds End Under Fives Centre, London

'We used the house to enhance our topic, All About Me. We assembled it at circle time and then went on to decorate and furnish it. We were able to cover all areas of the curriculum during this task. For example, the children used their creativity to paint the house, choose the material for the carpet and curtains and make the furniture out of junk. They used problem solving, reasoning and numeracy when measuring the carpets and making sure the furniture fitted into the house. They worked together as a group, communicating and using language to decide what colours to paint the house and how to make the furniture. They used physical, fine motor skills to make the furniture using scissors and glue independently. They talked about what furniture and decoration they have at home, and we supported their learning by using photos of homes and furniture, reading stories and allowing the children to use equipment from all areas of the room - the cars, people - to extend their play and learning. We have a number of children with language needs who benefited from the group interaction. It's good value for money. You could use old cardboard boxes to recreate this activity and the learning value would be the same. But this item is slightly sturdier and can be kept for longer.'