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Winter in Early Years: A Season of Curiosity and Discovery
This term, our Early Years children have been diving into the magic of winter through stories, imaginative play, and hands-on exploration. From outdoor ice investigations to cosy indoor small-world play, every area of provision has been designed to spark curiosity and encourage children to predict, explore, and learn from real-life experiences.
In our reading and writing areas, children have been inspired by winter-themed books, developing language and storytelling skills while making connections to the world around them. Outdoors, the excitement of ice exploration has led to fascinating conversations about melting, freezing, and change all rooted in scientific thinking and wonder.
How can families support at home?
Here are some simple questions and ideas to keep curiosity alive beyond the classroom:
- What happens to ice when it’s left in the sun?
- Can you find different textures outside – smooth, rough, crunchy?
- What sounds do you hear on a frosty morning?
Follow-up ideas:
- Create a mini ice experiment in your freezer.
- Go on a winter walk and collect natural treasures for a small-world scene.
- Share a favourite winter story together and talk about the characters’ choices.
Teacher Reflections on Curiosity
Mrs Renton shared:
“Curiosity is the spark that lights up learning. When children ask questions and explore, they discover so much more than answers – they discover joy.”
Miss Ward added:
“We love seeing children’s eyes light up when they predict what might happen next. That sense of wonder is at the heart of everything we do.”
At St Peter’s, we believe that curiosity helps children Love, Learn, Shine and this winter, our Early Years classrooms are full of shining moments of discovery.
