Children learn about the natural world, animals and other living things as part of the learning and development requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage. Children learn a great deal from animals; from caring for them and their environment to understanding about their habitats and diversity. We feel it is important to offer our children the opportunity to have contact with animals either in the setting or in the wider environment. We ensure that this is in accordance with sensible hygiene and safety controls through risk assessment.      

​

We keep chickens in our outdoor space – during session they are free to roam. Children are taught not to chase the chickens but to care for them, they can help with jobs to feed them, clean them out and collect the eggs to take home. 

​

Occasionally we have animals visit the setting, the owner carries out a risk assessment prior to the visit. Children are shown how to carefully handle the animals if applicable, and how to behave near them i.e. quietly and gently, they are encouraged to wash their hands after holding animals and not to put their hands in their mouth.

Nov 25