Children in the EYFS and Year One have been back at school for a few weeks now. The teachers I have spoken to have all said how resilient the children have been and how they adapted well to the changes in their learning and environments. The teachers also said that managing the increased hygiene practices, some attempt at social distancing and resourcing is quite hard going for all the staff members.
In the final few weeks of the school term it is important that children continue to feel secure and enjoy the learning they are engaging in. With all the changes that have taken place in the learning environments it may be difficult to keep to a routine. However, having one in place, even if it is very flexible, will help children to feel safe and be aware of how the learning day will take place.
Ensure that you are not setting too high expectations of yourself and the children. It is an usual time for us all. We want the children to be happy and enjoy coming to school or nursery again. Provide plenty of time for talking and encourage children to discuss how they are feeling, what they like about the different learning environments and what they are enjoying doing at school.
Think about the resources you are providing. As there are so many resources that can’t be used it is important to make the most of the ones that can be. Consider how manageable the resources are and what the learning is that they provide for the children. You don’t want to be spending time cleaning resources the children aren’t that interested in or that don’t provide much educational value. Ask the children which resources they miss and see if you can find a compromise together or something similar that can be used.
Ensure that all learning is as active and fun as it can be. As we all know children learn much more when they are up and moving. These last few weeks of term provide a chance for children to continue their development of their physical skills which will be so important in their future learning.
Very importantly consider your self-care and take care of you. The children will be so excited to be back with their teachers and room leaders. In the EYFS we have always been adaptable and based our practice on the children’s needs and interests. In continuing to do this, children will be able to adjust to the different learning routines and environments and enjoy a happy last few weeks of term.