Crawford Childcare’s school tour to Tir Na Si open farm

Crawford Childcare’s school tour to Tir Na Si open farm There was lots of excitement last week as all the children who attend our Discovery Room went on their school tour. For some it was their first ever bus trip although we also had some more experienced bus riders who explained to us about double and single deckers! We set off in a 53 seater single decker. Before the off the children met in our outdoor play area to run off a bit of the building excitement and to slip on their wellies. We took a quick photo of our super helper mums and we headed out to the bus in a trio of two…

A visit from Iggy and Co. to Crawford Childcare

A visit from Iggy and Co. to Crawford Childcare The babies had surprise a visit from our lovely friend Iggy the dog recently. He also brought along Noelle (local vet), Laura (local vet nurse) and Daisy (guinea pig) from Cashman & O'Driscoll vets. The babies were playing outside when Iggy the dog came in. This allowed the children to come in and meet him as they wanted. We were surprised that the children that don’t have dogs or other animals at home were the first in! It was a great experience for the babies as it was some of their first times actually seeing a dog up so close! The children appeared to be…

We’re going on a bug hunt!

We’re going on a bug hunt! The babies got a little bit closer to nature in Crawford Childcare recently as they explored our garden looking for bugs and different types of insects. Ryan and Eilish were really keen on hunting for creepy little critters using equipment from an insect exploring kit brought in by Charlene. The kit came with a collecting jar and pooter. The babies were very clever at using these and soon became insect investigation experts. The equipment allowed the babies to explore, catch and see bugs and insects up close. Ryan loves ladybirds and spends a lot of time looking for them since he found one playing in…

Day Four in Norway

Day Four in Norway Thursday 16th October 2014 I have met so many inspiring adults on my journey to and around Trondheim, Norway both Norwegian and Irish. The group I am travelling with are a wealth of information and knowledge in their own right and include academics, childcare committee representatives, early years practitioners, early years trainers, inspectorate and more. The sharing of our reflections have been a learning experience for us as we explore each other's perspectives. We are also a good looking bunch - just take a look at our group photo! Today started with lectures at Queen Maud University College on the subjects of municipality supervision and…

If it’s to be then it’s up to me

If it’s to be then it’s up to me Wednesday 15th October 2014 Today we were warned to wear good walking shoes/ boots as our day begun with a bus journey and 15 minutes walk to Haikasen Nature barnehage (Childcare facility) - a one year old building set in beautiful forest surroundings with a forest school philosophy of valuing nature and being in the outdoors. Facilities for children and staff were impressive with lots of space, shower areas and equipment to protect staff from repetitive injuries. The sun was shining and the sky a clear blue and I felt really fortunate to have such a fantastic learning opportunity. The male principal/ leader discussed his…

Sarah heads to Norway

Sarah heads to Norway   Sunday 12th October 2014 After a day of travelling our I (Sarah - Manager in Crawford Childcare in Glanmire)  have reached my final destination for a study visit - Trondheim in Norway! Norway has a reputation for high quality provision of childcare particularly in the areas of outdoors, men in childcare and inclusion. By accepting the placement I have agreed to share my learning through a number of mediums. Hopefully you will enjoy my updates over the week - I'll be sure to keep you posted ! I have been very fortunate in being one of 25 participants selected from across the country by Early…