Early Years
0-4 yrs

A ground-breaking and innovative 3 year programme of work committed to develop creative learning activities through working with the very people the programme is intended to engage: young children.

DNA will be working in early years settings to create performing arts based events and activities for families with children under the age of six that will actively engage, encourage and excite. DNA seeks to create events that parents and carers can share with children, promoting a sense of 'playing together'and a shared experience stimulating understanding between generations.

In 2007, we will be facilitating 3 pilot projects in early years settings in Lancashire. We will be giving 3 experienced early years arts practitioners training in puppetry and visual theatre. Combining their knowledge and experience with the DNA approach and engaging in a two-way creative exchange over a series of creative play sessions in early years placements will give DNA the right mix of innovation, experience and feedback to create an event which will be appropriate for early years settings, memorable and extremely effective in giving very young children a high quality engagement with performing arts, stimuating creativity, imagination, expressivity and confidence.

In 2008, DNA will be offering this high quality, highly effective event to early years settings throughout Lancashire, with a view to providing this engaging project throughout the North West of England.

Benefits & Outcomes of Imaginary Leaps

• Increased confidence in children through the provision of positive and inclusive learning experiences.
• A programme of family-based learning programmes in cultural settings eg: art galleries, arts centres.
• More arts and non-formal learning provision in Lancashire for Early Years groups.
• Development of a Lancashire and regional touring network
• Collaboration between Lancashire-based arts and education organisations such as More Music Morecambe and Ludus Dance, Lancaster to share best practice and produce more work with and for Lancashire audiences.
• Establishment of a regional network of puppetry organisations to share and develop good practice and Early Years puppetry techniques.
• A number of trained, more confident and employable workshop leaders based in the North West.
• The provision of employment opportunities within Lancashire for artists and workshop leaders.
• During the final year (Year 3) of the Imaginary Leaps programme, DNA would adapt the events and activities delivered in Lancashire during Year 2, for national touring.

For further information, please get in touch through the contact section of this site.

All text and images © Dynamic New Animation 2002