Ideas to explore Enjoy dancing together around a maypole
Resources Long pole (broom handle in bucket of cement, washing line pole or fence post), long lengths (1-2m) of brightly coloured ribbons fixed to top, small bells tied to ends
PLODS Collect suitable songs, such as 'In and out the dusty bluebells', and make up new ones; try weaving between each other; add foot bells into the dance.
Ideas to explore Make large letter shapes in the air
Resources Ribbon sticks (available form an educational sports supplier) 1/2 to 1m long, plenty of space
PLODS Encourage children to make circular and linear movements in the air; role-model shapes of increasing complexity; support children to make the individual letters in their name, developing into writing their whole name in the sky.
Ideas to explore Develop ideas and language about long and short, longer and shorter
Resources Selection of cheap coloured ribbons (from market stalls) or florist's ribbon on reels, scissors
PLODS Encourage children to 'measure' items outdoors, cutting lengths of ribbon so they can be compared to other items; support use of the mathematical language of measurement and comparison naturally in discussion.
Ideas to explore Investigate what the wind can do
Resources Selection of ribbons up to 1m long, places to tie them, bamboo canes (tape sharp ends), a windy day
PLODS Take photos of the patterns ribbons make in the wind; find windy and sheltered places; compare calm days to windy ones; make a 'wind farm' with ribbons tied to canes
Ideas to explore Develop finger strength and control through weaving and decorating
Resources Large supply of ribbons in a variety of colours, textures and lengths, beads, plastic jewellery, old CDs and natural materials that can be tied or threaded
PLODS Weave into fences around the outdoor area; decorate trees and bushes with ribbons and threaded items; wrap ribbons around tree trunks or other posts; let children take photos.
Ideas to explore Moving and dancing with ribbons and streamers
Resources Ribbon sticks, ribbons tied to wrist bands (pony tail bands work well), small balls or rings with streamers, music and portable CD player
PLODS Develop imaginative and controlled ways of moving; use space together to form patterns; respond to energetic, rhythmic or mood music, such as Rossini's 'William Tell Overture'.
* SERIES GUIDE
Poor resourcing and planning are the greatest barriers to high-quality outdoor play. In this series, Jan White and Gail Ryder Richardson of Learning Through Landscapes' early years team suggest simple resources that can provide stimuli for cross-curricular learning and give possible lines of development (PLODs). By focusing on resources that are cheap, easily prepared and easy to store, practitioners can then respond quickly to children's interests and events outdoors. More ideas on creating high-quality outdoor spaces are available from LTL Early Years Outdoors, tel: 01962 845 811.
