Term 4 – In the Forest

This half term our topic is “In the Forest.” The children will explore the history of teddy bears, learning that they have been popular for over 100 years and comparing bears from the past and present. They will investigate how we learn from artefacts and why some objects must be handled with care. Through stories such as We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, the children will sequence simple journeys, follow routes outdoors and describe features of their environment. We will also compare our town with forest settings and use our senses to explore the natural world, including making nature potions.

In geography and science, we will learn about Brown Bears—their habitats, diet, adaptations and hibernation—and compare them with other bear species around the world. The children will observe UK woodland wildlife and develop their understanding of change through simple cooking activities. In RE, we will learn about Ramadan and Eid, exploring why they are important to Muslims, how they are celebrated today and how they compare to other celebrations in our community.

You could support your child by:

• Share and read stories together such as We’re Going on a Bear Hunt or other woodland-themed books. Encourage your child to retell the story and describe the journey.

• Go on a local walk and talk about the features you see. Can your child describe the environment or follow simple directions?

• Look at old and new teddy bears (or photos) and discuss similarities and differences such as colour, material and design.

• Talk about your own childhood toys and experiences, comparing them with your child’s.

• Research Brown Bears (and other bear species) together. Where do they live? What do they eat? How do they survive in their habitat?

• Encourage careful observation of wildlife in your garden or local park.

• Explore simple cooking activities at home and discuss changes that happen when ingredients are mixed or heated.

• If appropriate, talk about Ramadan and Eid within your family or community, discussing why these celebrations are special and how they are celebrated.

• Visit your local library to find books about forests, bears, traditions and celebrations around the world.