Term 2 – Light and Dark, and Winter 

 

Light and Dark, and Winter Topic Web

Our Autumn 2 topic is “Light and Dark, and Winter.” The children will explore the changes that take place as we move into the winter season, investigating the differences between day and night and discovering some of the animals that are active at night in the UK. They will observe seasonal changes in the world around them and develop their understanding of light, darkness, and the natural environment. Through stories, discussions, and practical activities, the children will develop their curiosity, observation skills, and understanding of the world. 

As part of the topic, we will explore different celebrations and traditions, including Diwali and Christmas. The children will learn about Diwali, the Hindu festival of light, and discover the story of Rama and Sita. We will explore similarities and differences between life in India and the UK, including geographical and cultural features. As we approach Christmas, the children will learn about the Nativity story, compare Christmas celebrations with other celebrations in their own families and communities, and consider how life today differs from life at the time of Mary and Joseph. We will also explore the changing properties of materials through simple cooking activities, such as making festive gingerbread. 

Throughout the half term, we will use stories including The Night Box and Stick Man to inspire our learning, developing the children's communication, storytelling, and early reading and writing skills. In mathematics, we will continue to develop careful counting, match numerals to quantities, explore how numbers up to five can be made in different ways, and investigate and sort 2D shapes. The children will also enjoy a range of creative activities, using different materials and techniques to express their ideas, alongside music and movement activities that develop their rhythm, coordination, and confidence. We will continue to support their independence, emotional wellbeing, physical development, and understanding of healthy lifestyles as they grow in confidence within the Reception environment. 

You could support your child at home by: 

· Reading stories about winter, nighttime, Christmas, and other seasonal celebrations. 

· Talking about the differences between day and night and noticing how the world changes as it gets darker earlier. 

· Looking for nocturnal animals and discussing which animals might be awake at night. 

· Exploring light and dark through torches, shadows, and simple activities at home. 

· Sharing the story of Rama and Sita and discussing how Diwali is celebrated. 

· Talking about Christmas traditions and celebrations within your family and community. 

· Reading the Nativity story and discussing the characters and key events. 

· Practising counting objects carefully and matching numbers to quantities up to five. 

· Finding different ways to make numbers up to five, such as three and one making four. 

· Looking for 2D shapes in your home and local environment and talking about their properties. 

· Encouraging your child to practise putting on their coat independently and developing their fine motor skills through drawing, cutting, and creative activities. 

· Talking about feelings, kindness, and how we can help others, particularly during the festive season. 

· Involving your child in simple cooking activities, discussing how ingredients change as they are mixed and baked.