How this product aligns with the EYLF
Building language, imagination, and social skills
The Handa’s Surprise Wooden Character Set encourages children to engage in narrative play, fostering language development through storytelling and dialogue. As children manipulate the characters, they can explore various scenarios and express their ideas, enhancing their communication skills and imaginative thinking.
Supporting play-based learning and inquiry
This product provides a tangible resource for children to explore the themes of the story through play. By engaging with the characters in different contexts, children can inquire about the narrative, sequence events, and develop their understanding of storytelling structures, all within a play-based learning framework.
Relevant EYLF Outcomes
Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
Classroom, Play Activity & Provocation Ideas
Classroom & Learning Area Ideas
Set up a storytelling corner where children can use the Handa’s Surprise characters to retell the story or create their own narratives, encouraging collaborative play and communication.
Create a visual story map on a large sheet of paper where children can place the characters in sequence as they narrate the story, supporting their understanding of story structure and sequencing.
Play-Based Activity Ideas
Encourage children to engage in role-play scenarios using the characters, allowing them to explore different perspectives and emotions related to the story.
Use the reversible figure of Handa to initiate discussions about the journey she takes, prompting children to think critically about the changes in the story and the characters’ experiences.
Provocation Ideas
Introduce a variety of fruits (real or toy) alongside the character set to inspire children to discuss and compare the different fruits Handa carries, linking language development with sensory exploration.
Challenge children to create their own stories using the characters, providing them with opportunities to express their creativity and imagination while developing their narrative skills.
