In The Nest, our atelier is a creative, nurturing space where our children are encouraged to explore, experiment, and express themselves through a wide range of artistic and sensory experiences. The atelier is more than an art area — it is a place where curiosity, imagination, and discovery come together to support early learning and development.

Children use the atelier to engage with different textures, materials, and tools, helping them to develop fine motor skills, concentration, and confidence. Natural and open-ended resources are carefully chosen to encourage exploration and creative thinking — from paint, clay, and collage materials to loose parts and natural objects.

The experiences in the atelier are often linked to the children’s interests and ongoing learning. Practitioners observe and extend play by introducing new materials or techniques, encouraging children to talk about their creations and reflect on their ideas.

Our approach within the atelier aligns with the principles of Reggio Emilia, recognising children as capable, competent learners with their own ideas and voices. This space celebrates the process of creation rather than the end product, fostering independence, self-expression, and a lifelong love of creativity.