This week in Reception, we have been learning about caring for others by showing kindness, supporting our friends, and appreciating those who have looked after us. We read Bertie’s Poppy by Inez Bunclark and considered how Bertie demonstrated respect and gratitude for those who fought in the war to keep others safe.
Throughout the week, the children have reflected on ways to show care and thoughtfulness in their everyday lives. They have learned to honour those who are no longer with us through moments of silence, reflection, and considerate actions. Class discussions and activities have encouraged them to understand that small gestures, such as helping others, listening, and showing respect, can have a meaningful impact.
As part of our ongoing enquiry “How do we show we care?”, the children explored the significance of the Remembrance poppy and discussed how wearing one shows respect for those who fought in the war. They shared their own experiences of seeing poppies in the wider community, on clothes, or in memorials, and reflected on what they represent. To pay tribute to those who gave their lives to protect others, the children created their own poppies using a range of materials.
During our PSHE learning, we explored our enquiry through the lens of Anti-Bullying Week, discussing the significance of wearing odd socks and celebrating what makes each person unique. The children considered ways to show kindness and respect in their daily actions, recognising how these choices can positively affect others. To bring their ideas to life, they collaboratively created Anti-Bullying Class Charters, demonstrating the power of kindness and how we can care for and support one another. Here are our class charters below:
Throughout the week, the children explored the theme of Remembrance in a variety of hands-on ways in our continuous provision areas. They used small-world soldiers, ambulances, and fire engines to represent people who keep us safe, built memorials and poppy fields using blocks, created poppy art and playdough poppies, and practised counting by clipping numbered pegs onto corresponding poppies. These activities helped the children develop their understanding of the world, express ideas and creativity through art, strengthen fine motor skills, and reflect on acts of kindness, care, and respect.
This week in RE, we looked at the story of the Good Samaritan and discussed what makes people special and how we can show kindness, just like the characters in the story. The children reflected on who is special to them, what qualities make these people special, and how this makes them feel. The children created a drawing of someone important in their lives, such as a family member, friend, or teacher, showing appreciation for the people who make a positive difference in their lives.
In Forest School, the children used materials such as leaves, charcoal, grapes, and bark to create a Remembrance display. Working independently, they arranged the materials to make natural poppies, reflecting on the meaning of Remembrance and how their display could show respect and gratitude.
To finish the week, the children participated in a range of Children in Need challenges that encouraged kindness, teamwork and cooperation. The children also visited a variety of fundraising stalls where they bought biscuits and cakes, decorated their own treats, and enjoyed some arts and crafts. Back in the classroom, they continued the fun with more creative activities and hands-on tasks that kept the excitement going throughout the day.
