* settings should be constantly resourced and organised in such a way as to offer learning opportunities across all areas of the Foundation Stage curriculum
* topics can enhance basic provision and respond to children's interests
* children need plenty of first-hand experiences and time to develop ideas, skills and concepts through play
* the practitioner has a vital role in supporting children's learning.
This project, therefore, suggests:
* adult-led activities for introducing the theme
* resources that enhance basic provision and facilitate learning through child-initiated play
* how the practitioner can support children's learning.
When using the project, practitioners should recognise that:
* activities should be offered and never imposed on children
* children's experiences, and learning, may differ from those anticipated
* the learning, planned or unplanned, that takes place is valid
* the process is very valuable and should not be undermined by an inappropriate emphasis on outcomes or concrete end results.
The areas of learning are:
* Personal, social and emotional development
* Communication,language and literacy
* Mathematical development
* Knowledge & understanding of the world
* Physical development
* Creative development
Resources Stories
* Honey biscuits written by Meredith Hooper and illustrated by Alison Bartlett (Kingfisher, limited availability)
* The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (Puffin, 5.99) Rhymes
* 'Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker's man'
* 'Incy wincy spider'
* 'Little Miss Muffet'
Reference
* Paley, Vivian Gussin (1992) You Can't Say You Can't Play, First Harvard University Press
