Question
Q – “What are practitioners thoughts on using templates/ work sheets/flash cards in settings (age appropriate) We have recently received support from our local council and they have said a big fat No to using them. Whilst I can understand the rational behind this, I also feel they are being a little to harsh. They are so many nice things on sites like this that offer these kind of resources but we now feel we can no longer use them.”
Answers
A – “You may all find this an interesting read https://www.earlyyearscareers.com/eyc/learning-and-development/stencils-detrimental-childrens-development/
A – “Everything in moderation, not all children are artistic/ interested in all areas of the curriculum – a worksheet/ colouring sheet may encourage someone who wouldn’t normally come to certain areas to take a look.”
A – “Balance… There can be a place for them if used appropriately and not constantly, and are used alongside ways of embracing creativity. I think sometimes we’re too quick to say no definitely not… I absolutely understand the reasoning behind not using them and do agree, however I don’t think it’s a problem as long as it’s not the only activities you’re providing?”
A – “We do not allow template art or anything like that. I’d rather see the child’s art and interpretations then see someone elses work. Not using them tends to allow for more creativity i have found”
A – “I’m a student and all the nurserys I’ve been on placement in they are a big no , however I also did a placement in p1 and the teaching staff use loads of worksheets from number formation to cut and stick. I get they are not appropriate all the time but surely it shouldn’t be one rule in the nursery another in the schools”
A – “I dont think all templates or worksheets are bad… as long as you dont have them out all the time, they are a rare thing then i’d say it’s ok. I try not to use them in my room as much as i can but sometimes it happens!”
A – “It’s a tricky one for sure, as worksheets were once a hallmark of early years ed and that still filters through today. But your LA is right I’m afraid – research since and a greater understanding of child development has led to much more interactive and imaginative ways to support learning.
Worksheets are by nature a ‘prescriptive’ way of teaching, and it’s a one size fits all approach. So no real room for individualised learning or differentiation. Or instilling a passion for learning! The only place they can have is if a child has a particular interest in ‘paper based problem solving’ for example, like crosswords, mazes, stuff like that. For literacy, I always say steer clear of worksheets as it can turn children against a love of writing and make it a task, and a tick sheet. There’s so many more wonderful ways to learn where the child has real ownership over the process, why sit at a table and do it just one way?”
A – “I prefer a more organic approach which I think should be used the majority of the time. Children respond better to learning with things they see everyday outside or inside and are familiar with. Think to use templates occasionally does no harm though.”
A – “It’s about practitioner judgement. Ofsted no longer comment on or grade individual teachers or their styles provided progress is good or better. So it’s a case of deciding whether paper activities such as templates are the best way for children to make greatest progress or are other ways more appropriate? I don’t think saying no is appropriate either but children do need to be encouraged to mark make in their own individual ways”
A – “We can use them just not in the children’s profiles for observations unless needed…. E.g.. Labelling a flower…. My manager likes the children’s own work or if we have done something for them to use and to photo copy”
A – “They need to remember they are an advisory service they advise we listen and then choose whether to act… They cannot dictate how you run your business”
A – “It’s the process of the art work (learning involved) that’s important not the end product”