The Importance of Play

VIP Childcare recognises the importance of play and active learning experiences throughout children's development. During the first years of a child's life, the brain is forming connections that will determine a lifetime of skills and potential. We have a responsibility to ensure that these years are safe, responsive and stimulating for optimal development.

VIP Childcare staff work to support play opportunities following the Scottish Government's guidelines on "Birth to Three Matters" and the "Curriculum for Excellence". Active learning is learning which engages and challenges children's thinking using real life and imaginary situations, developing vital skills and knowledge and a positive attitude to learning.

"Birth to Three Matters - Supporting our Youngest Child" is an observational-based framework to record achievements of all 0 - 3 year olds. Developing and learning through interaction with people and exploration of the world around them. There are four key aspects which we focus on to help develop: A Strong Child, A Competent Learner, A Skilful Communicator, and A Healthy Child.

"Curriculum for Excellence" - VIP Childcare staff are committed to developing learning in natural and real contexts, familiar to children and appropriate to their interests and stages of development. This reflects our understanding that children's learning is most effectively supported through interaction with adults and other children and through play and active exploration of their environment.

The purpose of the "Curriculum for Excellence" is encapsulated in four capacities - to enable each child to be: A Successful Learner, A Confident Individual, A Responsible Citizen, and An Effective Contributor.

Child development is lead through: Intellectual Play, Sensory Development, Music and Storytelling, Physical Play, Creative Play, Outside Play, Healthy Eating, and Sign-Along.

For more information see the Facilities page.