This is where our 1-3 year olds learn.

 

​Our Curriculum: The Toddle Hut

Butterflies Preschool runs a hybrid approach; the Nature School combines the very best from traditional preschool with Forest School elements. As practitioners we are here to facilitate the learning and natural development of each child through observation, scaffolding, support and role modelling. We provide children opportunities to extend their learning, peer-peer role modelling and to connect their understanding with the world around them.

 

We aim to foster a love of the outdoors and instil the importance of sustainability whilst empowering children to care for the world around them. Our free flow indoor-outdoor approach provides children the opportunity to direct their own learning. We ensure that there are creative, sensory, construction and role play opportunities both inside and outside. Our approach is individual and led by each child as they are each on their own journey to explore, discover and grow.

 

On Site

At Butterflies Pre School we are blessed with a fantastic natural landscape. All children at Butterflies are given access to the outdoors in our garden space. The children are not limited to the amount of time they can spend outdoors during the morning and afternoon sessions. Our purple suits/all in one suit and fleeces help to keep children dry and warm so that outdoor play can continue regardless of the weather.

 

The sand pit, mud kitchen, outdoor painting, construction and digging area are open daily providing a range of play and learning opportunities. Weather permitting, the Secret Garden and balancing areas are also open.​

 

Children at the Nature School also experience campfires where we share songs, stories and enjoy the sensory experience. At least once a half term the children help to prepare and cook a snack over the fire, be that bread, soup or pizzas!

 

Off Site

Adventure Walks are a fantastic off-site opportunity in which children can explore Happy Valley and Farthing Downs. These walks take place during Morning and Afternoon sessions, or full day adventures, depending on the day. The walks allow smaller groups of children to play and learn in nature. 

 

These walks may include a specific focus such as den building, tree identification, climbing, balancing, literacy and numeracy games, bug hunts or pond dipping. We practice a ‘Don’t Lick, Don’t Pick’ policy which protects children and the environment.

 

Inside The Toddle Hut

The Toddle Hut offers bespoke and nurturing care for our 1 and 2 year olds. We focus on supporting children’s growth and development through a wide range of activities, including sensory play, arts and crafts, songs, rhymes, music and movement, and other traditional pre-school activities.

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Our 1 year olds have a dedicated space and are cared for in a small, intimate group. We tailor our provision to meet the individual needs of each child. Every child has a personalised plan, created in partnership with staff and families. We aim to keep sleep and feeding routines as close to home as possible to ensure children feel secure and settled.

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There are many opportunities for play and exploration outdoors in our dedicated baby garden at Butterflies.

In Spring and Summer, the babies also join Nature School adventures, travelling in our off-road buggy to explore the natural environment.

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For our 2–3 year olds​

Free-flow play is available, allowing children to access the garden area in all weathers throughout the day. They are also taken in small groups to the Secret Garden, where they can experience balancing activities and use the larger children’s equipment.

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As children approach their third birthday, they are gently and gradually transitioned into the Lodge. This supports their emotional wellbeing, as they remain with familiar staff and are given time to become confident in their new environment.