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Aspire Deanside’s Irresistible Play Areas

Aspire Deanside’s Irresistible Play Areas

Aspire Deanside prides itself on their incredible, immersive play areas for their young learners. Learn about the importance of creating spaces that children enjoy playing and learning in, as well as how Deanside implements this.

The Importance of Engaging Play Areas -

Children need areas to play and learn in in order to thrive. A classroom that is arranged effectively, and rearranged often, enhances development through play and learning. Room configuration and design can impact the way a child feels, behaves, learns and acts. The way a teacher plans, and the way children learn, is a direct image of the physical environment. Room arrangement for learning activities plays an important role in both students’ social and language interactions.

What do children need from their Environment?

The physical spaces, both indoor and outdoor, for children should include:

  • Emotional security
  • Enough space
  • Safe risk taking opportunities
  • A sense of belonging
  • Displays that are meaningful
  • Stimulating resources and materials
  • Activities that challenge
  • Experiences based on children’s abilities and interests

A space that empowers children should support their learning across each of the learning outcomes in the Early Years Learning Framework. By implementing the above criteria, a space will be optimised for children's growth and development.

Play areas at Aspire Deanside -

Check out Room 5's fascinating bugs display! By delving into the realm of bugs in such an interactive play space, children cultivate a sense of interest and compassion towards these tiny creatures and the environment they inhabit. By exploring the intricate world of insects, they're not just discovering fascinating facts, but gaining an appreciation for the interconnectedness of all life forms. Because of this hands-on learning and observation, they develop a deeper understanding of biodiversity and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

Aspire Deanside’s Irresistible Play Areas
Creepy crawlies galore in Room 5!

The children in Room 7 go on a wild safari every time they enter this part of their classroom! The table is filled with wild animals, patches of fake grass and an abundance of trees and greenery. The educators have done a wonderful job of creating a space that is fun and offers open-ended play opportunities. These jungle-themed toys and equipment stimulates thought play, analysis, oral language, cooperation, interaction and just plain fun.

Also in Room 7, the educators have set up a “Focus Wall”. This wall includes information about what the group is learning currently, and has learnt previously. Revisiting learning experiences allows children to make connections between what they are learning as well as to develop skills. Giving children the opportunity to go back and refresh their knowledge whenever they like gives them autonomy to seek out their learning.

Aspire Deanside’s Irresistible Play Areas
Children in Room 7 are able to go back to what they have learnt in previous weeks with the Focus Wall.

In Room 6, children are immersed in the exciting world of dramatic and imaginative play. This activity isn't just about fun, it's also a powerful tool for nurturing their social, emotional, language, and cognitive skills. As they slip into various roles and scenarios, they're not merely pretending; they're experimenting with different facets of their identities. Through imaginative play, children can express themselves freely, learn to navigate social interactions, and develop problem-solving abilities. Whether they're pretending to be superheroes, doctors, or chefs, each role-play scenario offers invaluable learning opportunities, shaping them into confident and well-rounded individuals.

The role learning spaces and play areas hold in an early education setting is key to the successful growth and development of children. Aspire Deanside takes time and care to craft engaging yet fun areas for children to play and learn. If you want to learn more about this Aspire Early Education centre, call 1800 978 429.

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