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5 Exciting Sensory Alphabet Crafts for Preschoolers

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Alphabet crafts for preschoolers​ Learning the alphabet can be a fun and interactive experience for preschoolers, especially when sensory activities are involved. Sensory alphabet crafts not only make learning enjoyable but also help young children develop fine motor skills and creativity. Here are five exciting alphabet crafts for preschoolers that are simple, engaging, and perfect for little learners. Alphabet Sand Tracing Fill a shallow tray with sand, salt, or even colourful rice. Provide your child with flashcards showing letters and encourage them to trace the letters in the sand. This tactile activity is perfect for introducing letter shapes while letting kids enjoy the sensory element of touching the sand. It’s a brilliant way to combine play with learning. Playdough Letter Moulds Playdough is a firm favourite in many nursery schools in Wimbledon . Use alphabet cookie cutters or guide children to shape letters with their hands. Playdough crafts help strengthen hand muscles, imp...

Activities for Teaching Young Children About Emotions

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Emotional development in children Helping children understand and manage emotions is key to their growth. This is why, by introducing playful and interactive activities, parents and educators can support young minds in developing crucial social and emotional skills. These below-mentioned fun and engaging methods not only make learning about emotions enjoyable but also help children build self-confidence, empathy, and resilience. In this blog, discover simple yet powerful ways to promote  emotional development in children  through fun activities. How to Teach Children Emotions​? Here are some effective strategies to encourage emotional development in children: Emotion Sorting Games Create colourful cards showing different facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised. Let children sort these cards into emotion categories. This playful activity helps kids recognise and name feelings, which helps build their emotional vocabulary and understanding of ho...

When Should Children Start Nursery? A Guide for Parents

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Starting a nursery is an important milestone for both children and parents. Choosing the right time and understanding your child’s readiness can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re wondering what age to start Nursery UK, this guide is here to help. What Is the Best Age to Start Nursery? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to the best age to start nursery. Every child is unique, and their needs and development should guide your decision. However, many nursery schools in Wimbledon accept children from as young as six months old, while others recommend starting at around two to three years of age. For children under two, nurseries or daycare settings provide opportunities for social interaction and gentle routines that can support early development. If your child is older, they may benefit from the structured activities, group play, and early learning programs nurseries offer. Key Factors to Consider When deciding the right time to enrol your child, consider the...

Why Storytelling Matters for Preschooler Development

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Storytelling for preschoolers Storytelling has been an integral part of childhood for generations, captivating young minds with tales of adventure, kindness, and imagination. For preschoolers, storytelling is more than just entertainment; it plays a crucial role in their development. Whether through bedtime stories, storytelling activities in nurseries , or creative play, this age-old tradition nurtures essential skills and helps children grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually. The Benefits of Storytelling for Preschoolers Storytelling offers much more than entertainment for preschoolers. It plays a key role in shaping their language, creativity, and social skills. Here are some incredible benefits of storytelling that contribute to the holistic development of young minds. Improves Language Skills Storytelling for preschoolers helps build a strong foundation in language. Hearing stories improves vocabulary, comprehension, and listening skills. By repeating phrases or asking qu...

Top 5 Tips to Encourage Nursery Children to Read

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  Children's nursery Let's face it - in today's world of tablets and telly, getting little ones interested in reading can feel like quite the challenge! As experts at Wimbledon House Nursery , we understand that fostering a love for reading early on is absolutely crucial for a child's development. The million-pound question many parents ask us is " what age do children learn to read ?" our answer is that While every child develops at their own pace, it's never too early to start nurturing those reading skills.   Creating a Cozy Reading Corner Picture this: a snug little nook with soft cushions, warm lighting, and a basket full of exciting books. Evrryone who loves reading will know how much a cozy environment adds to the story, and At our children's nursery , we've seen firsthand how a dedicated reading space can work wonders. It's never just about the books - it's about creating that special atmosphere where reading feels like a treat ...

How to Develop Listening Skills in Children?

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Listening skills for children Listening is a fundamental skill for children, setting the foundation for effective communication, learning, and social interaction. Developing listening skills for children is especially important in their early years, as it enables them to process information and engage meaningfully with the world around them. In this blog, we’ll explore how to nurture and enhance this critical skill, focusing on practical activities that you can implement at home or in settings like nursery schools in Wimbledon . How to Teach Kids Active Listening? Active listening is more than just hearing words; it involves understanding and responding thoughtfully to what is being said. Teaching active listening skills requires patience and consistency, but the results are highly rewarding. Children who learn to listen actively are more likely to succeed academically and build stronger relationships. Here's how you can help your child develop this skill: Make Listening to ...

Fine Motor Skills Activities for Preschoolers: Helping Little Hands Grow

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Motor Skills Activities for Preschoolers   Fine motor skills are essential for young children as they develop the coordination and strength needed for tasks like writing, dressing, and even eating independently. At Wimbledon Day Nursery , we focus on creating engaging activities that not only nurture these skills but also provide plenty of fun for your little ones. In this blog, we'll explore fine motor skills activities for preschoolers that parents and children can enjoy together, both at nursery and home. These activities will help set a strong foundation for your child's development while making learning an enjoyable experience. Why Are Fine Motor Skills So Important? Before diving into the activities, it’s worth understanding why fine motor skills matter so much. These skills involve the coordination of small muscles in the hands and fingers, allowing children to perform tasks like holding a pencil, using scissors, or even buttoning a shirt. At Wimbledon Day Nursery, ...

Top 5 Weekend Activities for Kids and Parents

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Weekend activities for kids When the weekend rolls around, it's the perfect time for families to come together, unwind, and enjoy quality moments with their children. The challenge, however, is finding activities that are both engaging and enjoyable for both kids and parents. In this blog, we'll explore weekend activities for kids and parents that are not only fun, but also encourage learning and development. If you're looking for ideas that will bring the family closer, you're in the right place!   What Kind of Activities Can Children and Parents Do Together? It’s always worth exploring what’s available within your local area, but distance doesn’t always create cherished memories. Sometimes, the best experiences are right at your doorstep, making weekend activities for kids easy peasy to plan. Here are five options that will delight both parents and children alike.   1. Outdoor Picnics with a Twist An outdoor picnic is always a winner, but why not add an adv...

Top 5 Funny Short Stories for Nursery Kids

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Short stories for kids When it comes to sparking joy and igniting the imagination of little ones, there’s nothing quite like a funny short story. At Wimbledon Day Nursery, we believe in the power of laughter and the joy it brings to our children. Whether it’s a silly animal tale or a humorous adventure, these stories not only entertain but also help develop language skills and foster a love for reading from an early age.  This blog explores the top 5 funny short stories for nursery kids—perfect for bedtime or a light-hearted read during nursery hours. Let’s dive into these delightful tales sure to leave your children giggling!  1. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson  One of the most famous short stories for kids, "The Gruffalo," is a true classic that never fails to amuse. This hilarious tale follows a quick-thinking mouse as he strolls through the deep, dark wood, outsmarting all sorts of predators by inventing a fearsome creature called the Gruffalo. Little does he know; th...

How to Teach Kids: Odd and Even Numbers Lesson Plan

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Day nurseries Wimbledon Understanding odd and even numbers is a key stepping-stone in early math. Here at Wimbledon Day Nursery, we’re all about making that learning journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Teaching these concepts in a fun, engaging, and interactive way can truly spark a lifelong love of numbers in children. Through playful activities, practical examples, and a touch of creativity, we can make learning about odd and even numbers both educational and jolly fun. In this blog, we'll explore effective ways to teach kids about odd and even numbers, all while keeping the environment – warm and nurturing that our day nurseries in Wimbledon are known for. Getting Started: What Are Odd and Even Numbers? Before diving into activities and math games, it’s important to lay the groundwork by introducing the concept in a way that’s easy for little ones to wrap their heads around. One way to explain odd and even numbers is to liken them to pairs of shoes. If all shoes...