20/08/2026
🌱 Growing, Learning & Exploring at Aldridge Day Nursery 🌿
Outdoor learning and gardening have become a much-loved part of life here at Aldridge Day Nursery.
For some time now, our Early Years Practitioner and avid gardener has been spending three days each week gardening alongside the children, giving them regular opportunities to plant, explore, investigate and care for our outdoor environment.
These experiences form part of our Roots to Growth Garden Curriculum, which has been designed to nurture a love of the outdoors while supporting children's development across all areas of the EYFS.
Through regular time in the garden, children are developing their curiosity, communication and language, physical skills, confidence, independence and understanding of the natural world.
🌱 Planting and caring for flowers, herbs and vegetables
🍃 Exploring different textures, smells and natural materials
🐛 Discovering the cycle of plants and insects
🌦️ Noticing changes in the weather and seasons
🔢 Counting, measuring, comparing and problem-solving
🗣️ Developing new vocabulary through real experiences
🤝 Learning to cooperate, take turns and care for living things
🎨 Finding inspiration for creativity and imaginative play
One of the things we value most is that this isn't an occasional gardening activity. Being outdoors, getting involved and caring for our garden is becoming part of the children's regular nursery experience.
Our curriculum has been written by an early years teacher to ensure we spark curiosity, investigation and knowledge.
Over time, they get to see the results of their efforts – from tiny seeds and new shoots to established plants – while developing an understanding that living things need time, patience and care to grow.
Roots to Growth – growing curiosity, confidence and a love of the outdoors. 🌿
