KINGSMEAD DAY NURSERY CHANDLER'S FORD

Sunshines Pre-School Room 3 - 5

Our Sunshine Room supports children as they take the next step in their nursery journey, developing confidence, independence and the key skills they need to prepare for starting school.

At this stage, children begin to build their early academic skills through engaging, play-based learning experiences. We encourage curiosity, problem-solving, communication and creativity while supporting each child's individual interests, abilities and development.

The Sunshine Room is located on the ground floor of the nursery, overlooking our extensive rear garden. The space includes two connected rooms, one large and one smaller, which are adapted throughout the day to provide different experiences, including areas for play, dining, quiet time and relaxation.

Outdoor learning is an important part of life in the Sunshine Room. Children have access to our gardens throughout the year, with covered areas available so they can continue exploring outdoors in all weather conditions. We believe that learning opportunities should not be limited to the indoors, and many activities can be enjoyed both inside and outside, including painting, mark making, construction, music and imaginative play.

Our outdoor areas provide exciting opportunities for children to develop physical skills, creativity and confidence. They enjoy exploring our mud kitchen, building area and imaginative role play areas, which can become anything from a shop, doctor's surgery, restaurant or hairdresser. Children also enjoy riding bikes and cars, playing outdoor games and discovering the natural world around them.

We introduce children to early mathematical concepts, including shape, space and measure, while developing pre-writing skills through a range of mark-making activities and different writing tools. Children are encouraged to become independent, care for others and develop important life skills through everyday routines and role play experiences.

Mealtimes also help children prepare for school life, with lunch served on school-style trays to encourage independence and confidence. During the summer term, our older children take part in school readiness activities, including exploring school uniforms and welcoming visitors from local schools to help them feel familiar and excited about their next step.

We provide personalised learning opportunities for every child, including those who require additional support or have specific needs or disabilities. Our experienced team works closely with families to ensure every child feels included, supported and able to reach their full potential.

Really Wild Club

Our popular Really Wild Club provides children with an exciting outdoor learning experience in small groups of up to eight children. The sessions encourage children to connect with nature, explore the world around them and develop a deeper appreciation and respect for the environment.

The children take part in a wide range of outdoor activities, including den building, bug hunting, storytelling, mask making, games, creating leaf boats to sail down the stream and mud face painting. Getting wet and muddy is all part of the adventure, and sessions continue whatever the weather.

Extra Activities and Family Events

Children in the Sunshine Room can also enjoy our popular Tennis With A Twist sessions, introducing them to racket sports and helping develop coordination, confidence and physical skills twice a week.

Throughout the year, we enjoy special events that bring children, families and the nursery community together. During the summer, Sunshine children and their parents are invited to our Sports Day and Afternoon Tea picnic. At Christmas, children perform a festive Nativity Play and concert at a local village hall, where families can enjoy refreshments and celebrate together. These events provide wonderful opportunities for parents to be involved, spend time with their child, meet other families and build strong relationships with the nursery team.

Our Sunshine Room accommodates up to 22 children, with a staffing ratio of one adult to every eight children. We follow the ​ Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, providing high-quality childcare and early education that supports children's learning, development and confidence as they prepare for school.