Woodberry Day Nursery Fawley stands at the forefront of advocating for the mental wellbeing of children, recognising its paramount importance alongside physical health. During Children’s Mental Health Week, the nursery engaged in a series of thoughtfully designed activities aimed at fostering a nurturing environment for the mental and emotional development of its children.
Yoga Adventures with Busy Bunnies
The Busy Bunnies group embarked on a yoga adventure, a creative session where storytelling and physical activity intertwined. Led by the imaginative tale of Tommy the Bedtime Turtle, the children explored various yoga poses, transforming the exercise into a lively and engaging narrative. This innovative approach to yoga underscores its manifold benefits for children, encompassing stress reduction, enhanced self-control, improved concentration, and the development of motor skills. Furthermore, yoga serves as a foundational practice for building strength, flexibility, and emotional regulation, contributing significantly to the children’s overall wellbeing.
A Soothing Spa Experience
In alignment with the theme of mental health, the nursery organised a Spa Morning for both the Busy Bunnies and Owl Babies groups. The initiative aimed to introduce the concept of self-regulation through a playful yet impactful spa setup. This immersive experience provided the children with an opportunity to explore relaxation techniques, fostering a sense of calm and mindfulness.
For the Owl Babies, the sensory room was transformed into a tranquil retreat, where sensory lights and calming music created an atmosphere of serenity. The children were gently guided in exploring the soothing properties of cucumbers and warm flannels, learning to use them in a manner that promotes relaxation.
The spa activities extended beyond physical relaxation, serving as a platform for the children to express and understand their emotions. Through interactions with staff members like Paige and Megan, as well as their peers, the children were encouraged to articulate their feelings, enhancing their emotional literacy and resilience.
The Importance of Mental Health in Childcare
Woodberry Day Nursery Fawley’s commitment to incorporating mental health awareness into its childcare philosophy reflects an understanding of the critical role early years play in shaping a child’s future mental and emotional well-being. By integrating activities such as yoga and sensory spa experiences, the nursery not only enriches the children’s daily lives but also lays the groundwork for healthy mental habits.
As Children’s Mental Health Week concludes, the impact of these activities on the nursery’s young minds is evident in their joy and learning.