I am often asked about the use of bikes outside. My view would be that if they are used selectively, with a purpose, they are an integral part of playing outside. This article is based on the ideas given to me from children in a nursery in Scotland. The bag system in this case provides the detail to the larger resources such as bikes, taxis and wagons. The We-go system has 6 detachable bags that are used to deliver the curricular focus. Each aspect gives us an area of the curriculum, main ideas and the Possible Lines of Development (PLOD).

Mathematics

• Resources to go in the bag system. Number plates for the bikes, parking tickets, chalk to create parking areas and speed limits.
• Ideas to explore Recognition of numbers.
• PLOD. Extend the links between indoors and out by making the number plates inside , laminate and attach string loop.

Knowledge and Understanding

• Resources. Local maps of varying style and complexity, compass.
• Ideas to explore Compass is used to find direction. Maps show the land with pictures and symbols.
• PLOD. Interaction with adults to focus on the features of the maps. Use fabric, boxes etc to represent features in a 3D form e.g. Roundabouts, trees, rivers.

Physical Development and Movement

• Resources. Objects to attach to the bikes such as plastic windmills to explore speed, lanterns for direction, large bells to explore distance. Use Velcro tapes for easy fixing.
• Ideas to explore. Development of physical skills through the use of small-scale materials.
• PLOD The provision of materials to dance in can be extended through the use of edible confetti. The birds will come down and eat all the bits!

Creative and Aesthetic

• Resources. Role play fabrics /simple props to represent characters in the bike area. Yellow for traffic warden, black for police. Keys to ?start? the bikes.
• Ideas to explore. Pretence play to explore new roles and behaviours.
• PLOD. Support children in their exploration by encouraging children to create storylines.

Communication and language

• Resources. Variety of papers to use for tickets, memo pads, mobile phones, walkie talkies. Laminated paper and chinograph pencils for charts and forms.
• Ideas to explore. Writing/talking as a form of communication for a variety of purposes.
• PLOD. Extend the experience through adult interaction as a customer, mechanic to offer a balance of roles.

Emotional, personal and social

• Resources. Oil cans, rags, screwdrivers, gloves to care for the bikes.
• Ideas to explore; Feeling of satisfaction from caring for an object.
• PLOD. Extend the opportunities through creating scenarios such as an old bike to take apart.