Welcome to the latest edition of The Spotlight, where we shine a light on innovative products designed to enhance your classroom or learning environment. We're excited to introduce our new Maple Den & Canopy, an incredibly versatile and engaging addition to any early years or KS1 setting. Keep reading to explore how this fantastic product can transform your space into a dynamic area for reading, role play, or simply a cosy retreat.

This multi-purpose den comes with a cream canopy and a sturdy frame, providing a safe and inviting space for young learners. Designed with flexibility in mind, the den frame can easily connect to other products in the Solway range using the supplied connectors. This allows you to customise and expand your setup as needed. The den is supplied flat packed with easy-to-follow instructions for quick and hassle-free assembly.

Don't just take our word for it...

“When I started my Communication Friendly Spaces training, I realized my setting was missing a vital resource, that being a cosy chill-out area for the children to relax in, to feel safe, and to explore from.

I knew I needed a den that could easily fit in 3 early years children and this one fit the bill. The den was really easy to put together. It comes with a canopy that's attached with Velcro and sits very firmly in place but at the same time can quickly come off if you wish to decorate the den for a theme. Our children love to grab a blanket and a book and sit in the den together exploring the books, or will take an activity into the den. I'm really pleased with my choice of den. It's hard-wearing, scratch-resistant, and such a lovely feature for our setting that is well used on a daily basis.” - @hollylodgechildcare

Creating an Engaging Reading Space

Transforming the den into a dedicated reading nook can encourage a love for books and storytelling among young children. Here’s how you can set it up:

Comfortable Seating:
Add soft cushions and bean pods inside the den to create a snug and inviting seating area.
Ensure the seating is at a comfortable height for children to sit and enjoy their books.

Accessible Book Storage:
Place a small bookshelf or a few baskets filled with a variety of books inside the den.
Rotate the book selection regularly to keep children excited about new stories.

Decorative Touches:
Hang fairy lights or soft lanterns inside the canopy to create a warm and cosy atmosphere.
Decorate the inside walls with posters or decals of popular book characters to inspire young readers.

Enhancing Role Play Opportunities

Role play is a crucial part of early childhood development, helping children to understand the world around them and develop social skills. Here’s how the Multi-Purpose Den can facilitate imaginative play:

Theme-Based Play Areas:
Transform the den into various themed settings such as a home corner, a doctor's clinic, or a grocery store. Change themes periodically to maintain interest and excitement.
Use props and costumes related to the chosen theme to enhance the realism of the play area.

Interactive Elements:
Include interactive elements like a toy kitchen set, a shopping till, or doctor’s tools inside the den.
Encourage children to engage in role play scenarios that foster cooperation, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Storytelling and Drama:
Use the den as a stage for small group performances and storytelling sessions. This can boost confidence and public speaking skills in young learners.
Provide simple costumes and puppets to aid in storytelling and drama activities.

Creating a Cosy Retreat

Sometimes, children need a quiet space to relax and recharge. The Multi-Purpose Den can serve as a perfect cosy retreat within the busy classroom environment:

Quiet Time Area:
Designate the den as a quiet area where children can go to rest, reflect, or enjoy some peaceful time alone.
Include soft blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals to create a calming atmosphere.

Sensory-Friendly Space:
Add sensory toys and materials such as sensory balls, fidget toys, and textured fabrics to help children self-regulate and relax.
Consider using soft, calming music or nature sounds to enhance the sensory experience.

Emotional Well-Being:
Encourage children to use the den when they feel overwhelmed or need a break from group activities.
Provide books and resources focused on mindfulness and emotional well-being to support children in managing their feelings.

But how easy is it to assemble? 

The den is supplied flat packed with clear, easy-to-follow instructions for self-assembly. Its versatile design allows it to connect seamlessly with other products in the Solway range, giving you the flexibility to expand and adapt your space as needed. The connectors provided make it simple to attach additional frames, shelves, or play elements, creating a cohesive and dynamic learning environment.

This multi-purpose den is a must-have for any early years or KS1 classroom, offering endless possibilities for creating engaging, educational, and cosy spaces. Whether used as a reading nook, a role play area, or a quiet retreat, this versatile den supports a wide range of learning activities and helps foster a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children.

Stay tuned for more exciting products and ideas in the next edition of The Spotlight!