When Cian got a teepee for Christmas, it was the perfect opportunity for the boys to follow the instructions and assemble it. Ioan took one look at this and said, “Look Finn, we can build this ourselves. It’s like Lego, but bigger.” After reassuring Cian that his teepee was in safe hands, they set to work.
Resources
- Instructions
- Teepee cloth
- Poles
- Rope
Method
Step 1: Before opening the box, we discussed Health and Safety, particularly about moving the poles carefully near each other’s eyes.
Step 2: I set out the resources for them to find and left the rest up to them. I just supervised to make sure that they didn’t accidentally injure themselves whilst manoeuvering parts.
This was a great opportunity to develop teamwork skills. Ioan took the lead, but included Finn in the discussion and the assembly.
They regularly consulted the instructions and before long we had a finished product alongside two happy faces. They couldn’t wait to get in there, so grabbed a blanket and some cushions to show Cian his new play space.
DfES Early Learning Goals (2017)
Communication and language
ELG 01 – Listening and attention:
Children give their attention to what others say and respond appropriately, while engaged in another activity.
ELG 02 – Understanding:
Children follow instructions involving several ideas or actions. They answer ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions about their experiences and in response to stories or events.
ELG 03 – Speaking:
Children express themselves effectively, showing awareness of listeners’ needs. They use past, present and future forms accurately when talking about events that have happened or are to happen in the future. They develop their own narratives and explanations by connecting ideas or events.
Physical development
ELG 04 – Moving and handling:
Children show good control and co-ordination in large and small movements. They move confidently in a range of ways, safely negotiating space. They handle equipment and tools effectively.
Personal, social and emotional development
ELG 06 – Self-confidence and self-awareness:
Children are confident to try new activities. They are confident to speak in a familiar group, will talk about their ideas, and will choose the resources they need for their chosen activities. They say when they do or don’t need help.
ELG 07 – Managing feelings and behaviour:
Children work as part of a group or class, and understand and follow the rules. They adjust their behaviour to different situations, and take changes of routine in their stride.
ELG 08 – Making relationships:
Children play co-operatively, taking turns with others. They take account of one another’s ideas about how to organise their activity. They show sensitivity to others’ needs and feelings, and form positive relationships with adults and other children.
