Care and support

Structure

In all the Bases there are clearly defined areas for play, for individual or small group teaching, and for independent work.

Each day is structured with a combination of familiar routines and particular key activities. This provides a focus for the day and distinguishes it from other days of the week.

There is a visual timetable for all the children.

• Photographs, line drawings, or symbols and words for each session are displayed in sequence.
• Children are encouraged to check the timetable to find out about the next activity. Pictures are also used to prepare children for a change to the established routine to reassure and allay anxiety.
• In this way, children are given an understanding of what they are going to do and what is expected of them.

Work is presented in a format which enables children to understand:

• the tasks they are expected to do
• when the tasks will be completed
• what they will be doing next.