Embracing the Curiosity Approach

At Little Pickles, we believe that curiosity is the heartbeat of learning. So with this in mind and wanting to evolve our curriculum, in 2019, we set about searching for a modern day approach to early years that promoted this in young children. When we stumbled upon The Curiosity Approach we fell in love with their ethos and vision. The more we read the more it felt like us! So we embarked on our magical journey and the rest is history!

The wonderful and unique Curiosity Approach fosters an environment where children are encouraged to explore, investigate, and engage with the world around them. Through this philosophy, we create a nurturing space that celebrates each child's natural inquisitiveness, allowing them to thrive both socially and emotionally. It fits perfectly into current changing technological times, as it brings curiosity, awe and wonder into early childhood that could be getting missed due to the increase in children having their own devices. Stimulating their imagination will create the ‘thinkers and doers’ of the future!

The Foundation of Our Approach

The Curiosity Approach is rooted in the understanding that children learn best when they are actively involved in their own education. We recognise that every child is unique, with their own interests and ways of learning. By providing opportunities for exploration and discovery, we help children develop critical thinking skills and a lifelong love of learning. Our dedicated team are trained to facilitate this process, guiding children while allowing them the freedom to explore at their own pace.

Creating a Stimulating Environment

Our nursery is designed to ignite curiosity. With carefully selected resources and materials such as loose parts and authentic items, we encourage hands-on experiences that promote investigation. From natural materials like wood, stones, and fabrics to open-ended play areas, our environment invites children to engage in imaginative play, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. Each area of our nursery is intentionally crafted to inspire wonder, from our sensory garden to our home corners ensuring that children can discover and explore in diverse ways.
With calm, neutral tones and intriguing displays, children feel relaxed, welcomed and at home. Clever use of mirrors, fairy lights and lamps also help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere making our children feel like they are entering a magical and enchanting space.

Child-Led Learning

At Little Pickles, we prioritise child-led learning, where children take the lead in their educational journeys. Our staff observe and listen to the children, supporting their interests and extending their learning through tailored activities. Whether it’s following a butterfly in the garden or delving into a new book, we encourage children to ask questions, seek answers, and explore their thoughts. This approach not only enhances their understanding of the world but also builds confidence and independence.

Fostering Social Connections

Curiosity is also a powerful tool for social development. Through collaborative projects and group activities, children learn to communicate, share ideas, and work together. Our amazing practitioners  facilitate discussions and encourage teamwork, helping children build strong social skills and lasting friendships. In this supportive environment, children learn to respect and appreciate each other’s differences, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Parental Involvement

We believe that a child’s learning journey is enhanced when parents are actively involved. At Little Pickles, we encourage open communication and collaboration with families. We provide regular updates on your child’s progress and invite you to end of term parent evenings. Together, we can create a holistic learning experience that reflects the values and aspirations of both home and nursery.

Preparing for the Future

Our Curiosity Approach not only lays the foundation for early learning but also prepares children for future educational settings. By cultivating skills such as critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability, we equip our little pickles with the tools they need to navigate an ever-changing world. Our focus on curiosity ensures that children leave us not just ready for school, but ready for life.

At Little Pickles, we are committed to nurturing the curious minds of tomorrow. Join us as we embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and joy in learning. We can’t wait to welcome your child into our vibrant community and watch the magic happen!!