The garden has been busy for the past few days. Our Rachel Keeling family have returned and enjoyed some sustained play and exploration between showers.  Our renovated bug's hotel, bird boxes and wicker fox are all up and in use. Children have noticed the daffodils they observed and painted have now wilted but signs of growth are coming through.
Groups of children have helped to clear the pond of debris and now we are researching how to care for the flora and fauna we have there. No tap water for us, it should be rain water all the way!
We are planning to talk to the children about rationing the water used in the garden for imaginative play. The #extinctionrebellion protestors have helped to focus thinking on our planet and the sustainability of it for future generations.
We at Rachel Keeling will be reflecting on this moving forward in everything we do. Starting with the bikes - let's get everyone cycling!

We know that a healthy body helps a healthy mind. We also know that research shows children who develop balance and skill in climbing will often develop fine motor skills and writing when they are ready.
At Rachel Keeling we have a large garden where the children are encouraged to climb trees and cycle freely. We also have our old favourite A-frames, ladders and planks which staff can position at different heights and gradients. 
I had to include all the photographs above which formed part of the children's Climbing Diaries. It tracked their individual progress over 3 weeks: seeing them from early stages, to joyfully tackling the A-frame and mastering the high plank (some children even jumping from height and landing safely!)