To gain more understanding of the development of two year old children in a nursery setting
I contacted the school myself as I had worded in the area and was aware of their two year old provision
I contacted the setting and arranged a meeting. At the meeting I discussed what I hoped for at the voluntary placement and discussed dates as well as what I was giving back in return (delivery of a session to members of staff on an Early Years subject)
I was there to observe only but did join in with the daily sessions
The days started at 8:30 with the children arriving, 12 per session. Toys, playdough, paint, sand etc would already be set up. Children played, had snack time, sang songs, listened and engaged with stories, played outside, had lunch and routines throughout the day until 3:30 when the day finished
watching how children's development progressed over the weeks I was there.
As I have lots of experience having worked with children for a long time, it was difficult at times to stand back as I was there to observe and not to interfere with the daily running of the group
I was able to give advice on a specific child who needed an assessment and I was able to support the class teacher with advice for the parent and how to support the parent.
No, it has just shown me how valuable going back into practice is for lecturers as this has given me renewed knowledge and energy.
Get stuck in, be part of the team and help out where you can as you get to see so many more aspects of the placement
I really enjoyed this learning experience
Form completed: 16 Jul 2017