For the Educators:

Not only are the Funky Nature Time shows lots of fun for the kiddies but they are also educational. With every show booked an educator pack is supplied. This highlights various aspects of the show and what learning may be happening. The most obvious one for example is the subject of sustainability. By telling stories and acting scenarios out and then asking provocative questions, this may deepen their understanding of the issues facing us in regards to their environment.

One of the learning outcomes in the Early Years Learning Framework (outcome 2) is about becoming socially responsible and showing respect for the environment. The show also capitalizes on other learning opportunities, such as respecting diversity (as Forest Fairyman is a big hairy man with pink fairy wings and Catgirl is an ‘adult’ who dresses like a cat), and Literacy (responding to rhymes, songs and stories in context) The shows are also designed to meet certain areas in the National Quality Standards.

- Element 1.1.1
Curriculum decision making contributes to each child’s learning and development outcomes in relation to their identity, connection with community, wellbeing, confidence as learners and effectiveness as communicators.

- Element 1.1.6
Each child’s agency is promoted, enabling them to make choices and decisions and to influence events and their world.

- Standard 3.3
The service takes an active role in caring for its environment and contributes to a sustainable future.

- Standard 6.3
The service collaborates with other organisations and service providers to enhance children’s learning and wellbeing.

The educator pack also details the intentional teaching in all of the aspects of the show as well as suggesting ideas where the learning may be scaffolded.