The Curiosity Approach
You may have noticed some exciting changes happening in the play spaces at our Family Hubs across the city.
We are thrilled to share more details about these updates and explain the inspiration behind them.
Why have we changed the play spaces?
Several of our staff members recently attended Curiosity Approach training, which inspired us to rethink and redesign our play spaces. This new approach encourages a fresh way of thinking about play, focusing on creating spaces that spark children's curiosity and natural desire to explore.
They visited nurseries and schools in Sheffield to see how they had changed their rooms. They had a trip to Leeds to visit Sunny Bank Mill and Sheffield Scrap Dragon Cic store; here they reuse scrap and waste materials from businesses by making it into affordable items for art, crafts and other projects.
The training highlighted that children need a space to:
- make their own choices and try new things. (Child-led learning)
- feel safe to have a go, make mistakes, learn from this and problem solve.
- figure things out for themselves using everyday objects that allow for free play using their imagination.
- help them connect with the world using all their senses and become lifelong learners.
- feel like home, explore natural and real items whilst learning about the world.
What is Curiosity?
Curiosity is the desire to learn more about the world around us. It's a drive to explore, ask questions, and seek answers.
What is a Curiosity environment?
A Curiosity play space is set up to spark a child’s natural curiosity to explore the world around them.
Using calm neutral tones to create spaces that feel cosy and comfy.
Rather than relying on traditional toys, children explore and play using natural resources, everyday household items and recycled materials.
What about toys?
Instead of typical toys, we’re using real items like shells, sticks, hats, purses, keys, and wooden rings.
These items can be used in many different ways and are far more interesting to children because they see adults using similar items in their everyday lives. Children like to copy adults and these objects help them learn and develop.
These natural items encourage children to use all their senses as they explore how things feel, sound and how they can use it.
By offering these opportunities, this helps children think independently, make their own choices and get creative in their play.
A pinecone can be anything - a mouse, a cake, or even a car!
When things feel different, make different noises and do different things children are curious and want to find out more.
Children can enjoy our new play spaces when they join our Family Hub groups!
Find out more about the groups running here