4.2. Plan a creative activity

This guide will help you answer 4.2. Plan a creative activity.

Planning a creative activity is more than simply thinking of something fun to do with children. It involves considering their age, developmental stage, interests and abilities. It requires preparation so the activity supports learning, builds skills and encourages self-expression.

In early years and playwork settings, creativity encourages children to explore ideas, experiment with materials and make decisions. The activity plan should be realistic, safe and engaging for everyone involved. It should link to children’s developmental needs and play preferences.

Creative activities can include art, music, dance, role play, storytelling, building structures and imaginative games. The focus is on the process of creating, not just the finished product. Children learn by trying things out and experiencing success and mistakes in a supportive environment.

Setting Clear Aims and Objectives

A good plan starts with clear aims and objectives. These spell out what you want children to gain from the activity. Objectives need to match the children’s stage of development.

Aims describe the overall purpose. For example:

• To encourage self-expression through painting
• To develop fine motor skills using clay
• To build confidence in speaking through role play

Objectives describe specific skills, knowledge or behaviour you want the children to gain. For example:

• Children will use different sizes of brushes to create shapes and patterns
• Children will explore textures and mould clay into shapes
• Children will speak in front of the group during the role play scenario

Having aims and objectives helps you choose suitable materials and methods.

Knowing the Children

A creative activity works best when you know the children who will take part. Think about each child’s strengths, interests and needs.

Points to consider:

• Age range of the group
• Developmental milestones already reached
• Any additional support needs
• Cultural background and languages spoken
• Interests and preferences
• Confidence levels

This information will help you adapt the activity so it includes every child. For example, younger children might need fewer steps and more guidance. Children with sensory needs may prefer certain textures or colours.

Choosing the Activity

The creative activity should match the aims you have set. It should be achievable in the space and with the resources you have. Make sure the activity is safe and promotes creativity.

Types of creative activity suitable for early years:

• Painting with brushes, sponges or fingers
• Collage with paper, fabric, natural materials
• Clay modelling
• Dressing up and role play
• Music making with simple instruments
• Storytelling, puppet shows or drama games
• Building with blocks or recycled materials
• Outdoor art using chalk or natural objects

Pick an activity that excites the children and lets them make choices. Avoid activities that are too complicated for the age group or have too many instructions.

Gathering Resources

Resources are the materials and tools needed for the activity. Planning means making sure you have enough for all children. Resources should be safe, clean and age-appropriate.

Examples of resources:

• Art materials such as paints, paper, crayons, glue, scissors
• Construction items such as blocks, cardboard, tape
• Music instruments such as tambourines, shakers, drums
• Role play items such as costumes, hats, props
• Sensory materials such as sand, water, dough, textured fabric

Check materials in advance to avoid running out during the session. Provide a range of materials so children can make choices and use their imagination.

Safety Planning

Children’s safety must be part of your plan. This includes thinking about physical risks and the environment. Preparing safety measures means hazards are reduced.

Safety steps:

• Check all resources for damage or sharp edges
• Use non-toxic art materials
• Keep scissors appropriate for the age group
• Clear pathways and working areas to prevent trips
• Provide protective clothing like aprons
• Supervise closely during activities that involve small parts, heat or water
• Risk assess the activity before it starts

Safety planning makes sure children can explore freely without unnecessary danger.

Adapting for Individual Needs

A well-planned creative activity includes everyone. This may mean adapting methods or materials so all children can join in.

Examples:

• Provide larger tools for children who find fine control difficult
• Use pictures or demonstrations for children with limited language
• Break the task into smaller steps
• Offer alternative materials for children with sensory sensitivities
• Arrange seating and space for children with mobility needs

These adjustments ensure children can take part fully and feel included.

Structuring the Activity

A creative activity works best if it has a clear structure. This helps children know what to expect and gives the session flow.

Typical structure:

1. Introduction – Explain what the activity is, show materials, spark interest
2. Demonstration – Show how to start, but leave room for children’s own ideas
3. Main activity – Children work on their creations, supported by adults
4. Sharing – Children show or talk about their work if they wish
5. Tidy up – Children help clear materials with encouragement
6. Reflection – Briefly talk about what they enjoyed or learned

Building time for each stage keeps the activity relaxed and enjoyable.

Encouraging Creativity and Choice

During the session, encourage children to explore and make decisions. Adults should support without taking over the creative process. Praise effort and ideas rather than just finished results.

Ways to encourage:

• Ask open questions like “What will you try next?”
• Give positive comments such as “I like how you mixed these colours”
• Allow children to experiment with materials in different ways
• Accept varied approaches and outcomes

This approach builds confidence and skills.

Linking to Learning and Development

Many creative activities link naturally to areas of learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Planning can match the activity with learning goals.

Examples:

• Painting develops fine motor skills and colour recognition
• Role play builds language skills and social understanding
• Music activities encourage listening and rhythm
• Building outdoors supports physical development and problem-solving

Making these links helps show the value of creative activities in overall child development.

Planning for Assessment and Observation

While the activity takes place, it is helpful to observe what children do and how they respond. This can help with recording progress and planning future activities.

Observation methods:

• Watch how children use materials
• Notice their level of concentration
• Listen to language used during the activity
• Spot problem-solving skills or creative thinking
• Record memorable moments or achievements

These observations can be written down in short notes after the session. They can inform planning for next time.

Example of a Creative Activity Plan

Activity: Collage Making with Natural Materials
Age group: 4–5 years
Aim: To encourage exploration of textures and develop fine motor skills
Objectives:

• Children will select natural materials to create a picture
• Children will handle and arrange materials with care
• Children will talk about their collage and the materials used

Resources:

• Large sheets of paper
• Glue sticks
• Natural materials such as leaves, twigs, flowers, seeds
• Aprons
• Table covering

Safety:

• Check for sharp twigs
• Use non-toxic glue
• Supervise closely to prevent materials from being swallowed

Structure:

1. Show collected natural materials and talk about their texture and shape
2. Demonstrate how to glue materials onto paper
3. Children make their collage, encouraged to choose their own arrangement
4. Optional share time where children show their work
5. Tidy area and wash hands

Adaptations:

• Provide pre-cut shapes for children who need extra support
• Use large glue sticks for easier gripping
• Allow more time for children who work slowly

Recording the Plan

Writing your plan helps you stay organised and makes it easier to repeat or adjust the activity in future. A written plan can be shared with colleagues or used as evidence in your qualification.

Record details such as:

• Date and time
• Activity name
• Aims and objectives
• Materials needed
• Safety checks
• Steps and structure
• Adaptations for individual needs
• Links to learning
• Space for evaluation after the activity

A clear plan supports high-quality creative play.

Reviewing and Evaluating the Activity

After the session, review how it went. Think about whether children enjoyed it, learned something new, or showed new skills. Write down any changes you will make next time.

Questions to ask:

• Did the children engage with the materials?
• Did any child struggle or need extra help?
• Was the space and time suitable?
• Did the activity meet the aims and objectives?
• Were safety measures effective?

This evaluation helps improve future planning.

Final Thoughts

Planning a creative activity means thinking carefully about what will inspire and benefit children. It combines knowing their needs, setting aims, choosing suitable materials and ensuring safety. Flexibility is important so you can respond to children’s ideas in the moment.

A well-planned activity can give children a sense of achievement and joy. By taking time to prepare, you create space for children to explore freely, try new things and express themselves. Your role is to support, encourage and provide materials they can use to bring their ideas to life. This makes creative activities a valuable part of early years and playwork practice.