Offering an approach that is tried, tested and proven to work, this book supports practitioners in planning and resourcing a series of topics based around popular themes and interests in the early years. Each topic is open-ended and introduced in the form of a problem that the children have to solve and can be led by their knowledge, thoughts and ideas.

Using Characters and Themes to Inspire Early Learning aims to nurture children's natural curiosity and imagination, encouraging them to become the facilitators who are empowered to solve problems, explore solutions and take ownership of their learning.

There are links throughout to the seven areas of learning in the EYFS and practical guidance on how to document the children's learning. Features include:

• An exciting range of characters, themes and objects to inspire children.
• Photocopiable pages and online resources to use in the classroom.
• Session breakdowns to set the scene and make planning easy.
• Creative ideas and activities to prompt children's thinking and develop discussions.

Packed with ideas for extending learning and practical resources that can be printed out for use in the classroom, this book is essential reading for all students and practitioners who want to provide inspiring learning opportunities for the children in their care.

About the Author

Jo Ayers and Louise Robson are Reception teachers and early years consultants, UK. They provide practical support to schools and early years settings in delivering the Early Years Foundation Stage, phonics and literacy.

Reviews

Kirsty Stickley, Hampshire County Council, UK

This book has a strong emphasis on involving children in the practical element of planning. It is written using a wide range of themes which are current and will inspire children of different ages and stage of development. Overall I think this book provides excellent examples of good practice and a platform for early year's practitioners to use. It is very detailed, provides prompts and using a wide range of resources to support the learning.

Sue Gascoigne, Play to Z, UK

Any book that encourages and helps practitioners ensure that children have the opportunity to take ownership of their play and learning, become independent learners, develop sustained shared thinking and become experts is of course to be welcomed. From the proposal details it would appear that the authors have managed to do just that using this thematic 'mantle of the expert' approach to learning. I love the idea of giving an opportunity for children to become experts and wonder if practitioners would benefit from suggestions as to how best to achieve/facilitate this as a group, small groups, etc. With careful design this resource could also become a tool for empowering and developing practitioner's capacity.

Book Information
ISBN 9781138696143
Author Jo Ayers
Format Hardback
Page Count 136
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 725g