13/08/2026
Earlier this week we experienced a fantastic example of genuine child-led learning, where the children’s ideas, interests and decisions shaped the direction of the whole experience.
It all began when the pre-school children asked if they could make pizza. As some children had a different idea and wanted to make cookies, we held a vote. The children voted, and cookies won!
Rather than simply providing the ingredients, we followed the children’s lead and encouraged them to think about what they would need. The children explored the kitchen to see which ingredients we already had before deciding that we needed to make a trip to the Co-op to purchase the rest.
With their hi-vis jackets on and money safely in their pockets, the children set off on their shopping adventure. This created a wealth of meaningful learning opportunities as they:
*Located ingredients independently within the shop.
* Developed their understanding of money and making choices
* Communicated with the shop assistant.
* Practised listening, speaking and social interaction skills.
* Followed road safety guidance while walking to and from the shop.
* Worked together and made decisions as a group.
Back at nursery, the learning continued as the children collaboratively measured and mixed the ingredients, shared resources and kneaded the dough. They then had the opportunity to make individual choices about their toppings, giving them ownership over the finished product.
Throughout the experience, the children explored **mathematical language, measurement, quantity, shape and problem-solving**, alongside developing their physical skills, independence and ability to work collaboratively.
The excitement and sense of achievement were clear as the children admired their finished cookies!
To extend the learning even further, the children individually packaged their cookies to take home, including an ingredients and allergen list. This provided another authentic opportunity to talk about food safety, allergens and the importance of knowing what is contained in the food we eat.
What makes this such a lovely example of child-led practice is that the learning wasn't predetermined. The children had the idea, made the decisions, solved problems, made choices and influenced what happened next. Harry, Mandy & Natalie supported and extended their thinking through meaningful interactions and teachable moments.
One simple request to “make pizzas” developed into a rich learning experience encompassing **communication and language, mathematics, physical development, PSED, understanding the world, literacy, independence, community awareness and food safety**.
Most importantly, the children were active participants in their own learning, and they were clearly proud of what they had achieved. 🍪
