Each half term we have a featured author that particularly appeals to the children. The author is chosen after spending time with the children, reading them a variety of books and poems and observing their reactions as well as taking into consideration the 'learning targets' that are set for that particular age group. Lynley Dodd's, Hairy Maclary stories quickly became established as firm favourites. These led on to Slinky Malinki stories, Scarface Claw and finally Zachary Quack, plus various others that Lynley Dodd has written. The children enjoyed acting out some of the stories using the small world animals and they are currently making puppets for the 'Dallington Puppet Theatre' in the role play area. The children are learning the use of rhyme from hearing stories read as this is an important process in acquisition of pre-reading skills.

'Sorting into sets'
Sorting has been the maths focus this term. We have sorted simply with one criterion; colour, shape or size,usually chosen by the child. Upper Nursery has an assortment of specific equipment, specially designed for sorting, but the children are encouraged to think about various 'sets' as they find them in the environment.

Baked Stuffed Apples

Ingredients
1 apple each
sultanas or mixed dried fruit
glace cherry
brown sugar

Equipment
Apple corer, teaspoon, knife and baking dish.

Method
Wash apple remove core trying to leave a small layer at the bottom.
Mix sugar and dried fruit.
Stuff apple with fruit mixture.
Top with a cherry.
Score apple around centre with knife.
Place apples in baking dish.
Pour a little water into dish and bake in oven until soft, approx
30 mins.
Serve with custard, cream or ice-cream. Enjoy