Activities
“Children learn best through play - and at Hillside, every activity is designed with this in mind.”
At Hillside, we provide a wide range of engaging activities designed to support children’s learning through play, exploration and creativity. Our pre-school is carefully organised into different areas, allowing children to move freely and choose activities that interest them during free play.
Each area is thoughtfully set up to encourage independence, imagination and development across all areas of learning.
Our Learning Areas
Creative Area
Children can explore a variety of creative materials including paint, collage, playdough and craft activities. There are plenty of opportunities for mark-making using pencils, crayons, chalk and other writing tools, helping to develop early writing skills in a fun and natural way.
Home Corner
Our role-play area encourages imaginative play, where children can act out familiar experiences and develop social and communication skills. The theme changes regularly to keep it exciting and engaging.
Maths and Problem Solving
Children explore numbers, shapes, sorting and counting through hands-on activities and resources that support early mathematical understanding.
Small World and Construction Play
Children use their imagination to create and build using resources such as small world toys, duplo and construction materials. These activities support creativity, problem-solving and teamwork.
Language and Discovery
This area provides books, letters and a range of resources to support communication, language and early literacy in a calm and inviting space.
Music and Movement
Children explore musical instruments, enjoy songs and take part in movement activities, supporting rhythm, coordination and self-expression.
Outdoor Play
Outdoor learning is an important part of our day. Children have regular opportunities to play and explore outside in a safe and stimulating environment. Activities support physical development, confidence and wellbeing, and give children the freedom to move, explore and enjoy fresh air.
Group Activities
Alongside free play, children take part in a range of group experiences throughout the session.
Snack Time
A social part of the day where children enjoy fruit and drinks together. They are encouraged to develop independence by pouring drinks, helping with preparation and tidying away.
Story Time
Children come together to listen to stories, helping to develop listening skills, language and a love of books.
Physical Play and Music
Children take part in music and movement as well as physical activities, often in smaller groups, supporting coordination, confidence and teamwork.
Circle and Singing Time
We end sessions together with songs, rhymes and group activities, helping to build a sense of community and bringing the day to a calm and happy close.