Nursery activities

On reflection

Explore the sensitive issue of racism and support children in developing their emotional and literacy skills through this interactive display, says Judy Dawes

Planned learning intentions

To develop self-image and self-awareness

To recognise and talk about similarities and differences in appearance

To use facial expressions to communicate emotion

Resources

* Safety mirror tiles * images of children that reflect a range of cultural backgrounds and a cross-section of hair colour and types, eye colour, skin colour, and include children with disabilities * photograph albums (including photos of children, their families and staff) * appropriate books and labels * a basket of hats * a basket of picture cards with questions to promote discussion at different levels. These can be as simple as 'Can you make a funny face in the mirror?' Or the cards may highlight facial expressions linked to emotions and ask how the child in the picture is feeling. Others will direct conversation directly towards hair, eye and skin colour

Step by step

* Build up a bank of appropriate images (eg packs from catalogues, photographs from magazines, postcards).

* Collect interesting hats (ask parents or carers for contributions, or hire from the local theatre).

* Choose a comfortable area for the display using screens to create a quiet space.

* Make sure that images, labels and mirrors are displayed at eye level for the children and that other resources are easily accessible to them.

Activities

* Explore the resources with children and look at the reflection of your faces in the mirror. Putting on different types of hats can be an effective way of engaging children and encouraging them to look at their own reflection.

* Use the picture cards to support your questioning. Respond to children's observations drawing out comparisons and talking about feelings.

Extension activities

* Use puppets in conjunction with the display, or in a circle time format, to open up a discussion about the children's feelings.

* Encourage children to work with others to record facial expressions using a digital camera.

* Provide the display over a period of time to enable children to revisit and develop ideas.