Exploring the World Through Stories and Nature at POD

LEARNING THEMES

At POD, working within the EYFS framework and the 7 areas of learning, our teaching is rooted in the magic of stories and the wonder of nature. Each month, our Book of the Month takes centre stage, guiding our activities, teaching focus, and knowledge building. Whether it’s a thrilling adventure, a laugh-out-loud escapade, or a gentle tale with heartfelt lessons, every book is chosen for its ability to inspire and engage little minds.

This is paired with Practically Wild, where we step outside to explore and connect with the world around us. These activities encourage children to appreciate nature, get hands-on, and discover how they can care for the planet, all while having plenty of fun along the way.

Book of the Month Books are at the heart of what we do, offering a doorway into imagination and learning. Each Book of the Month is carefully selected to captivate our little ones, guiding their play, creativity, and development. Whether we’re mimicking characters, crafting scenes from the story, or using its themes to introduce early concepts of language and maths, these books bring our learning to life in a way that’s accessible and exciting for children under 3.

Practically Wild Outdoors, the learning continues with Practically Wild! Each term, we take on a new theme that inspires us to connect with nature, explore our environment, and develop a love for the world we live in.

Autumn Term: Eco Warriors We become Eco Warriors, learning how to care for our planet through hands-on activities like creating bird feeders, litter picking, and saving sealife from tuff tray nets. From exploring endangered species to recycling at home, the children discover how small actions can make a big impact.

Spring Term: Nature Explorers As spring arrives, we become Nature Explorers, spending more time outdoors. We celebrate the season by planting seeds, watching caterpillars transform, and creating habitats for local wildlife. From bug hunts to pressed flower art, every activity encourages curiosity and connection to the natural world.

Summer Term: Mindful Movers When summer arrives, we embrace the sunshine as Mindful Movers! This term is all about balancing energy and relaxation. The children try out new sports, tackle obstacle courses, and enjoy calming yoga and mindfulness activities. Whether it’s playing or unwinding, it’s all about having fun outdoors!