KIDS ARE MOTORING ON NEW SUPER ‘8’ TRACK!
A CHILDCARE centre near Enniscorthy has just unveiled new state of the art facility which could be likened to a Mondello Park for kids.
Proprietor of Barley Hill Childcare Centre at Coolnahorna, Pauline O’Byrne has recently invested in the business to redevelop a large piece of ground to the rear of the crèche and Montessori school.
A large figure eight cycle track with integrated picnic areas has been installed as well as hills and tunnels that would rival Teletubbyland. All this looks out over a veggie patch and chicken coop allowing the children to enjoy a taste of ‘The Good Life’ while they play.
An innovative addition to the childcare centre is the latest craze in children’s biking - balance bikes.
‘We purchased a number of balance bikes for the new play area and already the children love them. Research has shown that these bikes which do not have pedals, help the children to cycle without stabilisers and learn to balance much quicker. It increases their confidence and once they get the hang of it, they master the skill of riding a pedal bike at a much younger age,’ Pauline explains.
Officially opened at the recent Barley Hill summer party, the redeveloped play area has already proved a hit with the children, and as the new pre-school term commences, new Montessori pupils will reap the benefits.
‘All children love being outdoors as much as possible and we have two gardens to choose from, one of which is a sensory garden. This garden features a sand pit, balance beam, wooden train, outdoor covered classroom and pirate ship,’ Pauline adds.
‘Learning through outdoor play is invaluable and the outdoors is one of the best learning environments available. Here, children learn through their senses and movement from playing with natural materials such as sand, wood and mud while improving their coordination and balance.’