The jolly ‘toy lady’ begins the day by showing the children her collection of toys from the past, including some very special dolls and a wonderful old clockwork monkey. Attention is paid to materials and construction and the forces behind the moving toys. In groups, the children experience a wide range of activities based around a large collection of (original and reproduction) old toys.
Activities include:
Toys played with indoors, toys played outdoors, toys that trick the eyes, marbles games, clockwork toys, making simple toys of their own, and story-making. This day can be adapted for a half-day visit for younger children ~ nursery and reception for example.
This day supports Unit 1 of QCA History Schemes of Work - Key stage 1
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Feedback from teachers:
‘Invaluable experiences for the children. The day will be remembered for years to come and will help the children to really understand the topic. Thank you for your hard work and lovely manner with the class.’
‘There was a good range of activities and materials. We had plenty to occupy the two classes of 30 for the whole day. All the children (girls and boys/youngest y1 and oldest y2) were well-focused and motivated all day.’
‘…a lovely, inspirational day for all of us.’
”(the day) is a real ‘hands -on’ investigational experience, allowing the children to use the vocabulary of time/history. It helps them to begin to understand the use of artefacts as sources of historical information and triggers work on and understanding of chronology.’
‘One little girl told her Daddy “That was the best school day ever!” Thank you, Alison.’
‘A very good enhancement of our history topic with links to literacy and science as well.’
‘There was plenty for the children to do all of the time.’
‘Each week we vote for what gave us the best ‘wow’ moment. The story writing came top, followed by the monkey and ‘the teddy with the ribbons’ - this opinion was held by the boys and the girls…We look forward to seeing you again.’
‘We all had a fantastic day - thank you.’