Easy to operate but incredibly versatile, users simply need to press the button on these Recordable Pegs to record a ten-second message.
Available in packs of six from TTS Group, the brightly-coloured pegs are ideal for developing children's communication and listening skills and perfect for recording reminders, prompts and simple instructions. Using the pegs can help build children's confidence in their ability to both communicate and understand messages.
The pegs lend themselves to being incorporated in activities that span the early years curriculum - use them to record numberlines, instructions for equipment or directions for treasure hunts.
Incorporate them into interactive displays and simple games (match the amount to the number), or set them alongside pieces of artwork, construction or modelling with recorded captions, descriptions or comments on what is on display.
Measuring just 10cm, the pegs are suitable for children aged from three upwards. With both clips and magnetic backs, they can be used on a variety of surfaces or clipped to lines, fences, clothes, picture boards and the like.
ICT adviser Michelle Singleton is impressed by 'the versatile nature of the product' and the fact that the pegs are 'light and easy to carry around', 'affordable and simple to use'.
She says, 'It's a great opportunity to have a device which you can carry around and simply make a recording whenever and wherever you are. It's big enough and robust enough for the children to carry around and not get lost among the rest of the resources. If you need to put it out of the way, simply clip it to something in the room or on your jumper!
'Recording instructions will help to develop children's listening skills. The facility for children to record their own voice will also encourage them to listen more carefully to see whose voice they recognise.'
HIGHLY COMMENDED
The Rokka and Play Accessories, Rokka Play
The Rokka is an innovative piece of role-play equipment which, from a single compact unit, can transform itself into a boat, kitchen, theatre and more. The Rokka comprises a see-saw and comes with a selection of fasteners and colourful accessories. Add a mast and sail to make it a fishing boat. Turn it upside down to make a play table with two chairs, a bridge, a jumping platform. Turn it on its side and add the kitchen pack to make a pretend kitchen with hob, cooker, sink, washing machine, shelves for storage and holes for slotting in utensils. Or add the theatre accessory pack, with its grand curtains and colourful beach-scene backdrop, to make a stage for budding puppeteers and producers.
FINALISTS
Talking Tubes Telephone Exchange, Reflections on Learning
Just Because written and illustrated by Rebecca Elliott, Lion Children's Books
The Land of Me, Made in Me and Ladybird
Criterion: Open to early years resources and equipment that support children's learning, development and enjoyment in the Early Years Foundation Stage or equivalent. New launches should have been first offered for sale since June 2010.
Sponsored by Asquith Day Nurseries.
