Children typically enter the Explorer Room at about two years of age. At this crucial stage in a child's development they are becoming aware of each other and increasingly play together. The Explorer Room provides a fun, friendly environment in which children are given the opportunity to develop their social skills, independence and self-confidence in preparation for moving into the Explorer Room 2 . Children are encouraged to operate more independently within the nursery environment, for example choosing what activity they would like to do and what story they would like to hear.
Great importance is placed on developing children's communication skills in the Toddler Room. Staff talk to children throughout activities during every part of the day. They are attentive and take time to listen to the children; if necessary gently encouraging them to talk and to engage in conversation. Children leave the Explorer Room 1 with basic but essential social and communication skills, enabling them to interact successfully with, and communicate their needs to, carers, parents and other children.
In the Explorer Room the majority of children begin toilet training. Staff make this a joint venture between home and nursery. All children are encouraged to sit on the toilet or potty at 'bathroom time'.
The daily routine in the Explorer Room incorporates learning under each of the six Early Learning Goals specified by the Deparment for Education and Skills. However, these goals will not put pressure on your child: we aim to meet these objectives through play whilst children are having fun. Activities are carefully modified to meet each child's individual needs. Afterward their effectiveness is analysed to suggest any modifications which should be incorporated into future activities to improve a child's development.
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