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Essential resources: Creating free-flow spaces for pre-schoolers

What are the key resources and play experiences to consider when setting up provision for pre-school children? Nicole Weinstein investigates
Enhancements can be added to provision when needed.

Play is essential for children’s development. Three- and four-year-olds are at a stage where they begin to pursue deeper exploratory play with objects, rich imaginary and fantasy play and co-operative role play. They enjoy putting their problem-solving skills to the test by investigating how resources work and gaining a greater understanding of cause and effect. Practitioners should provide stimulating resources in an environment that is finely tuned to support pre-schoolers’ development across all areas of learning.

Linda Keats, early years education partner for Essex County Council, says pre-school children need the freedom and time to play, reflect, investigate, try, fail and try again. ‘Resources need to be open-ended, natural, interesting, challenging and real life. They need spaces where they can build, sit, lay down, relax and re-centre. Rooms designed with free-flow play in mind, and with clearly defined areas for learning and plenty of natural light, are key considerations for this age range,’ she says.

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