Extra Curriculum

Each year we focus on a different language, allowing children to immerse themselves in the sounds, structure, and rhythms of a new language. Young children are naturally adept at learning languages, and this early exposure significantly boosts their speech development and comprehension skills. In addition to improving communication, learning a foreign language enhances cultural awareness, builds empathy, and promotes cognitive flexibility. It’s a fantastic way to broaden a child’s worldview and improve their self-confidence as they master new words and phrases.

At Nursery in the Wood, we believe that cooking is a fun and interactive way to teach children about healthy eating habits. Children explore different food groups, learn basic kitchen skills, and understand the importance of nutrition and balanced diets. By engaging in hands-on activities like chopping, mixing, and baking, children gain confidence in the kitchen while discovering the joys of preparing food. These cooking experiences nurture a healthy relationship with food and promote fine motor skills, following instructions, and teamwork. Children learn the valuable lesson that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and rewarding.

Whether it’s the rhythm of drums or the melody of tambourines, music is an excellent tool for early childhood development. Learning an instrument at a young age improves coordination, fine motor skills, and auditory discrimination. Music fosters patience, teaches delayed gratification, and encourages children to express themselves creatively. Additionally, it supports cognitive development, including memory, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. The emotional benefits are profound. Music helps children regulate their emotions, boosts self-esteem, and gives them an outlet to express their feelings in a safe, enjoyable way.

Dance takes place in our on-site dance studio, and is a dynamic and enjoyable way for young children to develop both physically and emotionally. It improves motor skills, balance, and coordination while promoting flexibility and strength. Dance also encourages children to practice patience and discipline as they learn to follow instructions, perform sequences, and express themselves through movement. It’s a great way to instill healthy lifestyle habits and boost overall fitness. Beyond the physical benefits, dance fosters creativity, social interaction, and a sense of confidence as children perform and work together in groups.

Introducing sports early helps children build teamwork skills, learn the importance of fair play, and stay active. Whether running, jumping, or throwing, sports promote cardiovascular health, muscle development, and overall strength. Through fun and engaging activities, children learn how to communicate and cooperate with others in a fast-paced environment. Sports also teach resilience, as children experience both wins and losses, learning to navigate challenges. The sense of accomplishment that comes from working together in a team fosters self-confidence and social connections while encouraging a lifelong love for physical activity.

Hartbeeps is a magical and interactive music class designed for babies, toddlers, and nursery-age children. Each week, children embark on a sound journey where they explore a different theme, bringing stories to life through music, puppetry, and imaginative play. With original versions of classic nursery rhymes, vibrant songs, and engaging props, Hartbeeps fosters social and emotional development by encouraging children to interact with one another and express themselves, while remaining sensory focused. Through rhythm, movement, and storytelling, children enhance their language skills, improve their coordination, and develop a deep love for music and creativity.