Early Years Theatre Play Sessions

How Sessions Work

When devising and developing work with young children, Imaginary Leaps starts with the exploration of the physical properties of materials, objects, and puppets. This is done through simple play with an engaged imagination, in the very same way that young children explore the world.

The purpose of creating work in this way is to encourage and stimulate the imaginative play of children, engaging them as audience and participants in creating characters, stories, and worlds out of the everyday objects around us.

• Session Duration: Approximately 1 hour, including performance storytelling leading into hands-on play and puppet-making.
• Group Size: 15–20 children per session to maintain intimate, high-quality interaction.
• Format: Flexible structure with a gentle pause halfway through the hour to cater to early attention spans.
• Adult Participation: Parents and early years educators are encouraged to share the experience, assist with crafting, or observe child-led discoveries.

Curriculum & EYFS Alignment

Quality interaction is a core focus within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). These storytelling sessions enhance the delivery of the four fundamental principles:

• A Unique Child: Celebrating individual responses, curiosity, and self-confidence.
• Positive Relationships: Fostering shared attention between parent, educator, artist, and peer.
• Enabling Environments: Transforming everyday room spaces into rich, imaginative landscapes.
• Learning & Development: Covering communication, language, physical motor skills, and creative expression.