We have our very own local allotment which the children explore weekly. We are passionate about hands-on learning and ensuring the children know where their food comes from. The children enjoy getting their hands dirty and very much look forward to our allotment sessions!
We enjoy encouraging the children to explore the different tasks which come with looking after the allotment including: sweeping, digging, weeding, planting, harvesting, painting and more. These different activities also promote dexterity and fine motor development, alongside life skills like: measuring, seasons, nature and horticulture.
Nature – Food – Growth
At Mayfield, we allow the children time to connect with nature in many different fashions by creating a play space within the learning environment. Children naturally seek out the sensory elements of nature and can experience real-life situations which can be beneficial in later life. The children are given independence and a sense of success when they can see the developments occurring in front of their eyes. We risk assess our trips and ensure the safety of children and staff in prioritised.
Children are enlightened to the wonders of growing their own food, and become excited with tasting the items they have cared for. Children are more likely to taste food if they have grown and contributed to the preparation of! We believe the allotment allows the children a perfect opportunity to become curious with nature and the world. We engage all of the senses with touch, smell, taste, sight and hearing explored with the different items we grow and help them to grow as individuals.
At Mayfield, we love to have the children involved with the allotment. They get to see the process from start to finish, farm to table as our produce is used within our homemade food; but we also promote a community environment by sharing over extra produce with the locals! The staff and children enjoy the allotment and it is one of our favourite off-site visits. Finally, with the allotment we combine the joy of growing alongside the magic of exploring nature!
