At Rachel Keeling Nursery School we follow the rhythms of the year: seasons and festivals.
Children have been learning that Muslims observe the Holy Month of Ramadan by fasting and making donations to charity. Children explored books, artifacts and shared talk about the way they celebrate the same and different festivals with their families. We know food is an important part of many celebrations. Children also were supported to follow recipes and work together to make some beautiful food to share: they made delicious Chaana Chaat, which has yoghurt and chick peas in; Vegetable Samosas; Stuffed Parathas and Dates Dipped in Chocolate to take home. Eid Mubarak to all our community who are observing Eid this weekend! All children may wear party clothes to school on Tuesday 3 May. During this week we have been thinking about Easter: the religious feast and the festival.
We have been looking at signs of spring - such as shoots growing in the garden: daffodils and snowdrops. We have noticed some birds visiting the garden too. The weather has been brighter, with some sunshine (and even some snow!) Children looked at Christian artefacts such as a Crucifix, a special candle and a picture of the Last Supper. Some children shared the Easter Story. Some children listened with interest to the story. A few children had heard about Jesus before, they remembered the story of Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph. They lit a candle and some children asked questions: What is wine? What is a tomb? What is heaven? Where is heaven? Who is God? What is God? What does healing mean? One child said "My nanny is in heaven, I don't see her any more." "That's not Rachel Keeling Values - the soldiers didn't show respect to Jesus." We always encourage children to ask questions and support their understanding. Today the Easter Bunny has been to visit Rachel Keeling Nursery School. We were all very excited to search for find eggs hidden in the garden and everyone got to take a chocolate egg home! Happy Easter if you are celebrating. Have a wonderful break. If you are observing the Holy Month of Ramadan - Ramadan Mubarak! |