Our week in the forest
Our Winter Olympics theme has brought a week full of exploration, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences. The children have fully embraced the spirit of teamwork, perseverance, and imagination as they engaged in a wide range of activities designed to inspire curiosity and confidence.
One highlight was an exciting ice rescue challenge, where coloured blocks of ice held frozen athletes waiting to be freed. Using tools such as rolling pins and spoons, the children experimented with different ways to break and melt the ice. This hands-on investigation encouraged problem-solving, patience, and early scientific thinking as they observed how ice changes with movement and warmth. Once the athletes were rescued the space quickly transformed into a lively Winter Olympic arena. Complete with figure skating performances, ski races, and daring snowboard jumps.
Music and rhythm added to the celebratory atmosphere. Using percussion instruments and Boomwhackers, the children explored tempo and beat while singing familiar songs. Working together to create music helped to strengthen listening skills, cooperation and confidence in group participation.
Our learning extended beyond the setting with a community trip inspired by conversations about London transport. After enthusiastically discussing underground lines and bus routes, the children embarked on a real journey to the local library. This experience nurtured independence, road safety awareness, and excitement about the world around them. At the library, they carefully selected books linked to their interests, promoting early literacy skills and a love for reading.
Creative exploration remained at the heart of our Olympic theme. A wintery small world landscape was created using white fabrics and shimmering silver tinsel, inviting the children to design their own snowy venues with small world figures and loose parts. They built podiums, slopes, and spectator areas while narrating competitions and medal ceremonies, developing language, collaboration, and planning skills.
In our art area, potato printing onto fabric allowed the children to create their own Olympic flags. This tactile activity strengthened fine motor control and introduced discussions about symbolism, unity, and global friendship.
We also introduced a new calm-down canopy - a cosy, reflective space supporting emotional wellbeing. Using emotion monsters as prompts, children explored feelings and practised strategies for self-regulation. Pretend tea parties encouraged social interaction and turn-taking, while whiteboards and markers provided valuable opportunities for mark making and early writing development.
Throughout these experiences, the children have shown resilience, creativity, and a true sense of Olympic spirit. We are incredibly proud of their enthusiasm and teamwork as our winter adventures continue. ❄️✨
Little Forest Folk
Putney Heath