Learning SPACE

Product of the Week - Hama Beads

2012-01-19T11:25:00.000Z

The massive range of Hama Beads products provide craft ideas for all kids from 3+

It's very simple - you take a template (priced from 99p!) and a selection of coloured beads, choose your colours and make your patterns, and then iron over the top to make a permanent work of art!

For younger children, the Maxi Beads are a great choice. Suitable from three years, they are a good chunky size for little fingers, but work in exactly the same way as the version for older children. You can choose from starter kits, like this one, or individual peg boards and beads.

Just look at the sort of things your child could be making:

When your child hits 5, or thereabouts, they'll be ready to move on to Hama Midi Beads.

These are a smaller size, so more detail can be achieved in the art work. From fabulous gift sets like this farm, priced at only £14.99, to individual pegboards and beads, there is something to suit every budget and taste! There are even beads that glow in the dark!

Why not come into the shop on a Saturday - this month we are running special Hama Bead sessions between 11 and 3 every Saturday. You can have a go and see the range!

Christmas Countdown! Product of the Day 3

2011-12-03T06:44:00.000Z

Great Geysers is a super science gift for any child in KS1 or KS2, supporting learning across the curriculum while also being great messy fun!

Extreme!

Ever tried this experiment? This great kit from Learning SPACE provides everything your 6-11 year old needs to recreate an amazing geyser up to 25 feet high!

Not only that, it also includes the tools to explore the science behind the sensation, with over a dozen related experiments.

Why not video your kids exploring this amazing experiment - we'll upload them to our Youtube channel!

Priced at £14.99, it's a great value gift for hours of fun!

Christmas Countdown - Product of the Day 2

2011-12-02T15:16:00.001Z

Day 2 - how's the shopping going?

We've had one of these sturdy wooden Tower Slopes out on display for a wee while, and it is one of those toys that attracts nearly every child (and adult!) who comes into the shop! The wooden cars come in a variety of sizes and click-clack down the track with a very satisfying sound.

Tower Slope

At £59.99, it's a great price for a very solid, sturdy piece of kit that will last for years!

Christmas Countdown! Product of the Day 1

2011-12-01T11:56:00.001Z

For our first Christmas Countdown product, here is the wonderful Sophie La Giraffe.

With her chewable, squeezable, squeaky body, she is a perfect first toy - ideal for any new little person's First Christmas! Sometimes the simplest ideas are just the best. Her natural rubber material is entirely phtalate-free, so perfectly safe to chew on.

Sophie

This is one of the products I can personally endorse - my niece, son and nephew have all had a Sophie, and she's been a great favourite with all of them from only a few weeks old!

Sophie is also very popular amongst the rich and famous - have a look here: Celebrity Spotting!

Sophie is £12.99 and comes in a gift box.

Photo time @ Learning SPACE with award winning photographer!

2011-11-22T21:22:00.002Z

A fantastic offer from Learning SPACE for the new year!

Each week, the wonderful Mariusz will be in the store with his portable studio, running free taster photo sessions - to take part, simply make a purchase in the shop. You'll get a FREE 5x7" photo on production of a valid receipt! (valid for 2 months from date of purchase.)

I was so impressed with the quality - my kids look positively socially acceptable in the photos he took! And from such a short session, we were only there about 10 minutes!

Mariusz is a very talented photographer. With his 10 years of National Geographic accredited experience, he has travelled and photographed all kinds of people and places. His previous work includes photography at the very prestigious Double Take in London. Mariusz won a National Geographic award just last year with a fabulous picture of Belfast, and is currently writing and photographing a book filled with photos of our city, for publication in his native Poland!

For more about Mariusz, follow his page

www.mariuszsmiejek.com

Here he is in action in Learning SPACE.

And the finished result...

Don't they look brilliant?

For more information, please call into the shop, follow us on Facebook and Twitter or check out the website at www.learningspaceni.co.uk

From now until Christmas - PRODUCT OF THE DAY!

2011-11-22T21:21:00.000Z

And to start us off, a really cool kit! Magic Fish Gift Set

This tiny box contains everything you need to grow your own ACTUAL REAL LIVE FISH, just like this one

Fishies! Tiny fishies that grow from a kit!

These are not sea monkey type things - these are ACTUAL FISH!

What a fantastic stocking filler!

New Product of the Week - Everyday Heroes Wooden Playset

2011-11-15T16:15:00.000Z

This fab new toy came in last week - I have never seen anything attract so many children for so long!

Everyday Heroes Wooden Playset

The bright colours and sturdy construction make this a long lasting toy with great play value. Friendly characters (people and animals) come included - as do the vehicles and all the furniture!

It's really a fabulous set. Learning SPACE have it at a bargain price, cheaper than Early Learning Centre! At £119.99, it's a fantastic gift for any child aged from 3 and up.

Fun at Photo Time @ Learning SPACE - an experience

2011-11-15T15:46:00.001Z

Following on from my blog advertising our new FREE event, I thought I'd put my money where my mouth is and bring my own little ones into the shop for a session.

Mariusz was just great with the kids, helping them to relax and feel comfortable with having their pictures taken. His portable studio is just the right size for the space, giving the kids room enough to move around without feeling cramped.

Here's how it went:

This is my 8 year old, posing like a pro. Mariusz was really good at making her feel comfortable and smiley!

Next up, the 6 year old, being remarkably co-operative for once in his life. He really enjoyed the experience, although he was nervous at first.

And here are the finished results:

Amazing results, I'm sure you'll agree! Especially managing to make the smallest goblin look quite so angelic - I can assure you he is a perfectly normally wicked 2 year old!

I definitely recommend the experience to anyone - and the photos themselves make perfect gifts. Remember, you get a FREE 5x7" print from the session!

Sessions are FREE with the production of a valid Learning SPACE receipt - no minimum purchase, receipts valid for 2 months from date of sale.

Product of the Week - PUPPETS!

2011-11-01T19:48:00.000Z

One of our most popular product ranges at Learning SPACE is the fantastic selection of puppets we have.

My particular favourite is this one from Melissa and Doug - Smoulder the Dragon!

Just look at the cuteness of him!

The Melissa and Doug puppets can be used with either hand, and are operated using your hand in their mouth plus a stick to move their arms.

The range includes Smoulder, and his friends the Princess and Queen Carlotta Castlehoff, as well as a doctor, builder and many more!

The Tell a Tale range of puppets includes hand and finger styles, and provides any fairy story you can think of! Peter Pan comes with his very own tiny Tinkerbell finger puppet!

Of course, if you are going to be producing wonderful puppet shows, you need a theatre. This link shows the beautiful deluxe version (in my house, a similar one also became a shop/ doctor's surgery/ vets). Short on space? Try this super table top theatre,which folds down into a small box. Or even smaller - the Finger Puppet Theatre, which is already in my stocking filler collection for my 8 year old!

Oh, and speaking of stocking fillers - check out this fantastic wee set of finger puppets - The Wizard of Oz! I absolutely love it!

Town House Photography @ Learning SPACE!

2011-10-25T08:21:00.002+01:00

Learning SPACE are delighted to announce a new partnership with Townhouse Studios!

Every Thursday from 3-7pm, renowned photographer Mariusz Smiejek will be in residence, available to photograph your little angels! As a special promotion, you will receive a FREE 5x7 photograph from the session, collectable the following week. And if you like what you see, Townhouse Studios are offering vouchers and offers towards a full session in their tailor made studio!

Just have a look at some of his work!

Mariusz Smiejek is an award-winning photographer with over 10 years of experience. In 2010 he won the
International National Geographic competition with a picture of Belfast. He currently lives in Belfast, working
with his partner on a new book about contemporary life in Northern Ireland, to be published in his native Poland.

His previous work includes photographing in Germany, and working for prestigious photo studio "Double Take" in London.

Mariusz's Website

Speaking as a parent who has had their fingers burned in the past by overpriced, over-sold photographers, I was very pleasantly surprised by the quality of Marius' work, and the extremely reasonable pricing - I'm bringing my kids up to be snapped in half term! (Oh yes, Grandparents, that's what you're getting for Xmas!)

New Product of the Week! JUMPING CLAY

2011-10-18T10:06:00.000+01:00

This blogger is bouncing with excitment, I can't wait to play with this stuff with my kids!

Jumping Clay is unique - jasmine scented, air drying, easy to mix colours and it BOUNCES! Just look at some of these fabulous creations:

And here you can see the Learning SPACE staff finding out all about the wonderful stuff!

We are the FIRST shop in Northern Ireland to stock Jumping Clay. Everyone who has seen or touched it in the flesh has been captivated by it - it's truly amazing stuff!

These amazing Dinosaur Kits contain a skeleton plus clay to build an accurate 3D Dinosaur - for only £4.99!

My 8 year old daughter is just going to love this Accessory set, pretty hair clips, keyrings and jewellry for only £6.99

We also have a Hand Print Kit, ideal for a baby keepsake, as well as a range of kits - Mini Gift Set and the ultimate Total Gift Set

Order yours now - ideal as a gift, stocking filler or just a fun rainy day activity.

Product of the Week - Swish Kids Plate

2011-10-11T10:03:00.000+01:00

Swish Kids!

Swish Kids is a new, exciting and creative way to immortalise your child's works of genius.

All you need to do is buy the kit - your child creates a drawing or painting on the enclosed template. Send it away, and in 3 weeks you will receive your choice of plate, clock or tray. All the products are hard wearing plastic, the plate and tray are dishwasher safe. I have heard reviews from parents saying plates used every day for 6 months are still as good as new!

You could use the template to immortalise some tiny hand and footprints. You can add text, and even photos.

It's an absolutely perfect gift for doting Grandparents, or even just to brighten up your own home!

We are running sessions in Learning SPACE - every SatARTday, Crafty Ciara is on hand to help out with creative ideas. Come on down and have a go at designing your own plate!

Swish Kids also offer a fundraising pack - contact us for more details!

info@learningspaceni.co.uk 02890319360

Product Focus: Fiddle Toys

2011-10-11T09:21:00.000+01:00

If you or your child have an ASD, ADHD or any sensory processing difficulty; or even if you are just one of life's fiddlers, you'll know exactly how difficult it is to be still, quiet and remain on task.
Some of us crave movement and tactile input.

Unfortunately, this can be a distraction to both the person concerned and all of the people around them. However counter-intuitive it may seem, tapping, wriggling, doodling and fidgeting actually helps some people to remain focused, so the best way to deal with it is to find objects or activities that can be used without disturbing those around you.

At Learning SPACE, we have a range of products designed to meet the needs of people who crave sensory input. In this blog, I'm going to explain and review just a few of them.

One of our best sellers, and one of my favourite things in the shop, is the Tangle Junior.
It comes in a wide range of colours and textures, from smooth to fuzzy to textured silicone.
It is jointed all around, so has an infinite range of movement, but is small enough to be hidden in one hand when required. I often twist one around my wrist to fiddle with while working or on the computer.
Some adults have found the Tangle Jr to be a useful tool when giving up smoking - distracting from the cravngs. It's very reasonably priced at £4.99

The Fiddle and Think Jar contains a Tangle Jr as part of its wide variety of textures and fiddles. It also contains

Bendy Character
Smiley Stress Ball
Stretchy Smiley Man
Lumpy Squidfy Ball
Baby Hairy Mite
Smiley Juggling ball
Mini Clay Putty Pot
Mini Squeezy Duck

This all comes in a sturdy storage jar. A great resource for parents or teachers, and extremely good value at just £14.99

Children with high sensory input needs have very individual tastes when it comes to textures. Where some may prefer a smooth toy, others might enjoy a bouncy, stretchy clay or a velvety texture.

Mr. Squeeble is a lovely foam-filled squisher. His hair is great for twisting and flicking and his face can be moulded and contorted any way you like. The more you squish him, the squishier he gets!. At only £2.50, he is a real bargain for hours
of sensory calming.

Along with Mr. Squeeble, we have the Squishy Mesh Ball. Squidgy, squashy multi-coloured entertainment!

For school children, the LINK Fidget Pencil is an excellent addition to their everyday toolkit. It has a cool, funky look and can be discreetly fiddled with without drawing attention to the user. At only £1.99, it's a great buy.

Some of us crave full body movement. For these people, you can't do better than a LINK Movin-sit cushion.
It wobbles as you sit on it, strengthening core muscles while also providing sensory unput. My own son often uses his for computer play, homework, or during meal times. It really helps him to remain in his seat and calm. We have both child and adult (suitable for teens) versions in stock

I hope I've given you a few pointers here. Call in to the store to chat to our well trained and informed staff, phone or email if you would like more information about any of our products.

New Product of the Week! TANGLE BALL

2011-10-10T11:02:00.000+01:00

Tangle Ball

From the makers of the fab Tangle range of fiddle toys comes this chewy, ergonomic, squishy ball.

Suitable from birth - so absolutely fine for those of us with children who like to chew everything. Washable and sterilisable, bouncy and brightly coloured, these are a great addition to the toy box for any child.

The range includes a high-contrast black and white version - perfect for young babies or for people with a visual impairment.

Particularly suitable for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or other Additional Needs that need sensory input!

COMPETITION TIME! Face of Month at Learning SPACE!

2011-10-04T16:20:00.000+01:00

We would love to see your photos of you and your kids in unusual or interesting places. Each month there will be a new competition to find the most exciting, novel or imaginative photo emailed in. Aha, easy! But here's the tricky bit - you need to include a Learning SPACE leaflet in your photo.

Here's our October Face of the Month. It's a particularly cheeky one too!

Rowan, aged 2.9

You'll notice he's wearing his Learning SPACE leaflet as a fetching hat! (OK, OK, this one's mine - he's not getting a prize!)

Prizes include a £5 voucher for Learning SPACE and the chance to appear on our website home page as the Face of the month at Learning SPACE!

To get your leaflet and enter the competition, call into the shop or place an online order. Email entries to info@learningspaceni.co.uk

New Product! - Oh Plah Chewy Wristband

2011-10-04T09:19:00.000+01:00

Oh Plah Chewy Wristband

We've sourced this fabulous, award winning new product in response to several requests for functional, practical but also fashionable chewy jewellry.

Oh Plah

These fab bracelets will fit almost any wrist. If you are using them with a teething baby, then mum or dad can wear them. If it is for an older child, adolescent or adult with Sensory Processing issues, they can wear it themselves, as a subtle, practical way to protect clothes and other objects from chewing!

The bracelets are practically indestructible, they can be bent, twisted, chewed and bitten to provide that sensory input that the child needs.

Made of an anti-microbial thermoplastic, free from BPA, phthalates, cadmium. lead and latex. No small parts or paint on the product, making Oh Plah! completely safe to handle and chew.

Completely recyclable

Easily cleaned with soap and water, and dries quickly so that it can be worn again right away.

Size: 18cm long and 5.5cm at the widest part and 3cm at the thinnest part of the wristband.

Dr Toy Best Green Product Award.

Also in store, and perfect for anyone who needs oral sensory input, we have Chewy Tubes. These come in 3 varieties, all priced at £8.99. Extremely practical, long lasting, easy to clean and small enough to be subtle. They are also more age appropriate for older children than many regular teething toys.

Green Knobby PQ 2-pack Red Chewy Tube

STOP PRESS!! NEW PRODUCT JUST IN!

Tangle Ball

A brand new fiddle/ chewy toy from the makers of the Tangle

More about this, and our many other fiddle/ sensory toys, next week!

Learning SPACE @ the NASEN Annual Conference!

2011-10-03T10:13:00.000+01:00

Learning SPACE will be supporting this year's conference, on the 22nd October 2011, at Stranmillis University College, Belfast.

It's very exciting!

The conference is aimed at parents and professionals working with young people who have been diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

"A very knowledgeable group of speakers from various parts of the province will be sharing

their knowledge and expertise of Autism Spectrum Disorders with us in a range of ASD

specific seminar topics. Individual speakers will also consider what is already ‘good practice’

here in Northern Ireland, and as a part of the Conference programme, we also plan to share

learning resource possibilities, presently available through the use of C2K in schools. "

NASEN Conference PDF link

At Learning SPACE we have a special interest in Autism. We have a catalogue of products specifically selected with people with ASD in mind - click on the link for the Autism Catalogue

Our staff are knowledgeable and experienced, and able to support parents and professionals in the sourcing and use of our products.

We will be attending with a range of exciting new things, including Sensory Direct weighted items and Sensory Room equipment, to show off the brilliant new range! Learning Space is working with Fred Storey Ltd to design and fit SpaceKraft Sensory Rooms.

Here are Lorraine, Owner of Learning SPACE, and Ciara, our Rep, trying out one of the new products that we'll be demonstrating!

Here's what Lorraine had to say about the LED Musical Light Wall:

I could have played with this all day! I was absolutely mesmerised. Simply by touching the screen, I could control the music, lights and movement. Amazing!

See it in action in the video below!

So, whether you are a student teachers, an NQT, an experienced teacher,

a Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCO), a classroom assistant,

a professional working with young people with an ASD, or a parent - we're looking forward to seeing you there!

Fundraising Inspiration!

2011-09-27T21:38:00.000+01:00

If you are involved in fundraising at all, you'll know how tricky it can be to think up new, unusual ways of grabbing people's attention - and getting them to put their hands in their pockets!

The usual bake sales/ bring and buys/ raffles have their place, but it's great to bring out something new and exciting every once in a while!

I've been part of a Playgroup committee for a few years now - we are definitely planning to use some of the ideas detailed below.

For a PDF copy of the fundraising pack, please go to this link.

Fund Raising Inspiration!

Newsletter Competitions

Make your organisation’s newsletter sparkle with a Learning SPACE competition!

Learning SPACE will provide a prize (a £5 voucher) for the competition winner, and as an additional bonus the organisation will also receive a £5 voucher, along with a 10% discount!

How to enter:

« Email or phone Learning SPACE with your interest. info@learningspaceni.co.uk 02890319360

« We will activate your vouchers.

« Place the competition in your newsletter or on your website. (example below; we can also provide word searches or colouring sheets)

« Send us a link or copy.

« We will send your vouchers.

Beautiful Personalised Plates, Clocks or Trays!

SWISH KIDS IN ACTION @ Learning SPACE!

Swish kids

Swish Kids fundraising pack is a great way to immortalise children’s art work while also raising funds for the school.

You make up to £8 on each item, and it is risk-free – you only pay for what your participants order!

« Contact us with your interest

« We will send a Fundraising Pack and sample.

« Display your sample plate and poster

« Promote to parents via school newsletter and send flyers and letters to parents.

« Place order and payment less your commission and receive colouring templates (pages)

« Children colour/paint their template. There is even an option to put a photo on, or to add a few words describing the picture. Maybe you could have a fun family art session?

« Your beautiful, durable, dishwasher-safe items will be delivered to your organisation within 4-6 weeks.

All you need to do is contact us with your interest and number of participants – you are under no obligation to carry out the event!

Wish Tree

The Wish Tree is a great way of making sure your staff get what they want or need at Christmas or at the end of the school year. The idea first came following lots of enquiries from schools. The first Wish Tree ran for a Special School last year and was very successful!

Here’s how it works:

« Each staff member expresses their needs or wants through our Product Advisor or using the form.

« We provide a tailored Wish Tree, with a gift idea from the list on each leaf. This makes a lovely display for foyer or entrance area.

« Publicise your Wish Tree in your newsletter or on the website.

« Parents/ carers can take a leaf to Learning SPACE where they will get the extra discount applied! (Can’t make it to the store? Don’t worry - place an order over the phone and we can gift wrap, write a personalized message and deliver to the organisation!)

« The Wish Tree helps your organisation to become better equipped with appropriate resources.

Did you know?

« We have a Product Advisor service

Our dedicated product advisors come with a vast knowledge of child education and of the resources available in the education market.

We are able to listen to your needs and demonstrate the educational resources that are available to suit your individual needs and interests, for example; Sensory Rooms, Early Years, ASD or Literacy

This will save you time and money!!

« We are a recommended supplier for educational play equipment for the Northern Ireland Education and Library Boards.

« We offer FREE activities throughout the week in store - keep an eye on our website, www. learningspaceni.co.uk for more details.

CONTACT US AT

tel: 02890 319360 email: info@learningspaceni.co.uk

11a Fountain Centre

College Street
Belfast
County Antrim
BT1 6ET

Product focus of the Week - Stuff for your left handed children!!

2011-09-24T11:56:00.000+01:00

Being left-handed in a right-handed world presents a whole set of challenges, especially for youngsters.

Fine motor activities in particular can cause problems.

Some tips to help your child:

For handwriting -

Make sure the child is sitting comfortably, with their feet flat on the floor, able to see what they are doing and not slouching over the page.

Some children may struggle to remember to write from left to write - a visual cue on the table or page may help (eg, green on left, red on right.)

Because a left-handed person's hand passes over the writing, it's best to use a harder pencil, that will not smudge as easily.

The child should hold their pencil higher up than a right-handed child - this is to enable them to see over their hand.

Tilt the paper to the right, rather than the left. That will improve the writing flow and make it easier.

Like many skills, repetition is the key to learning. Practice is always helpful! These Left Handed Writing Skills practice books are a great way of engaging your child in practicing.

Stabilo make some fabulous pens and pencils that come in right or left handed options. I've heard lots of good reviews of these from parents and teachers!

Left-handed scissors are exceptionally useful to left-handed kids - cutting becomes far simpler!

Follow this link to see all of the products in our Left-handed skills range!

Product of the Week - Daisy!

2011-09-24T11:45:00.000+01:00

One of the nicest, most cuddly, friendly puppets I have ever met!

Here she is:

Super-soft fur, weighted feet and rattly ears and a moveable mouth, she's just plain gorgeous! Sized to fit either a child or adult hand, she's a lovable companion for any child.

Any of you who come along to our Sign2Music sessions will know that Daisy Doggy is an important part of the action, bringing her musical instruments to help us all have a great time along with Signing Sandy.

Daisy is very reasonably priced at only £17.99

New FREE Activities @ Learning SPACE!

2011-09-12T10:05:00.002+01:00

Having been in education since the age of 4, and (being a teacher) never having actually left, September always has far more of a New Year feel to me than the actual, dreary January holiday.

So it feels very appropriate to be announcing not one but TWO exciting new collaborations taking place in Learning SPACE this September!

Sign2Music @ Learning SPACE!

First of all, our super duper link with Sign2Music started this week - Learning SPACE staff will be working with the lovely Deirdre, founder of Northern Ireland's own Baby Signing company, to offer taster sessions each Wednesday at 10am. With puppets Signing Sandy and Daisy Doggy, instruments, bubbles, signs and songs old and new, it's a fun, stimulating, educational event for babies and toddlers from 7 months to 3 years.

I'm very excited to be one of the staff that Deirdre has going to trained up - really looking forward to these sessions!

Swish Kids @ Learning SPACE!

And the next collaboration! We are all a bit over excited about this new range of products (my kids' grandparents - guess what YOU are getting for Chrimbo!)

Every SatARTday see our fantastic new product line of personalised products, demonstrated and facilitated by our resident arty person, Crafty Ciara.

This FREE session includes a free design template page and colouring equipment - the template page can then be taken home, or you can choose to purchase it. Swish Kids takes your child's work of art and in 3 weeks or less, you receive a plate, clock or tray with your child's genius art work immortalised to be cherished forever! Prices are from only £14.99!

The plates are dishwasher proof and durable, so usable - not just an ornament!

Happening on SatARTday, from 10th September, and continuing each week from 11am to 3pm - come on down, no need to book! Mid week slots are also available but booking is essential.

If you want a fun way to raise funds for your school there are also a great fundraiser kit, contact us for one today!

So, new year, new activities. I hope all your pickles are settling well in their new school year, next stop - Hallowe'en!

Back To School!

2011-08-30T10:45:00.000+01:00

Is that a collective sigh of relief I hear? Those are some long holidays!

So, shiny new shoes, spanky new uniforms, pencil cases and school bags at the ready, our army of little cherubs prepare to march off into the new year of learning.

Lots of parents come into the shop interested in supporting their children's school learning with home activities. We have a wide variety of products across the curriculum to support and develop your child's education.

Here's a closer look at just a few of them.

Flashcards can be a useful tool for both literacy and numeracy. In the above picture you can see the lovely Anna, aged 3, helping me to play with the Usborne ABC cards. The pictures are bright and engaging, with lots to talk about on each (including that pesky duck who hides and must be found!)

For slightly younger kids, these flashcards are chunky and bright, and can help children with the earliest stages of literacy.

And once they're at big school, reaching the heady heights of P1, phonic cards are a great fun way to practice and learn all the phonic sounds your child needs.

Of course, it's not just the kids heading back - the teachers are heading back too!

I particularly like the new planner we have in stock - ideal size with a nice clear layout. We also have a wide range of teachers' aids, from reward charts to stampers.

Our display posters and accessories are also worth a look to brighten up your classroom! Display products. The posters are extremely good value for money, and we have a wide range - plenty of choice, including multi-cultural, across the curriculum.

Happy September, everybody, have a great year!

I am very excited - Sign2Music Taster Sessions in Learning SPACE!!

2011-08-29T14:57:00.003+01:00

Learning SPACE are delighted to announce that Sign2Music will be offering taster sessions in store every Wednesday at 10am from the 7th September 2011. Book your spot today!!

Sign2Music was founded by local mum Deirdre McLaughlin. Here's what she says about Sign2Music:

"Sing with us, have fun with us with music, puppets and play. Sandy's ready to sign with you, so come along today! Join us on a fun-filled signing journey, supporting your child's development and communication skills while bonding together.......

Sign2Music is Northern Ireland's own baby signing company. I developed Sign2Music after experiencing the joys of 'baby signing' first hand with my youngest daughter Cara and realising most of Northern Ireland were unaware of the huge benefits signing can bring to ALL children."

You can follow Deirdre's blog at sign2music

I have used signing with all my own kids from a very early age (still remember the pride when Precious First Born produced her first sign at about 8 months - "MORE!") and I firmly believe in the benefits of enabling children's communication in this way.

Sign2Music presents the signs in a fun, informal way. My 2.5 year old son and I attended a summer session in the Newcastle Centre a couple of weeks ago, which both of us really enjoyed. Puppets, bubbles, percussion instruments and songs old and new all combined to make a really enriching experience, enjoyed by small babies right through to the big brothers and sisters that were there.

Learning SPACE and Sign2Music will be working together from 7th September to provide short taster sessions - these are free, and fill up fast, so be sure to book your place now!

Check out our Facebook and Twitter feeds for more updates.

New in - Dinosaur Island!

2011-08-23T11:00:00.000+01:00

I am in love with this! Dinosaur Island

Dinosaurs have been an endless source of fascination in this house - (did you know that the heaviest dinosaur weighed as much as 17 African elephants? DID YOU MUMMY? DID YOU????). As well as imaginative play, exploring and learning about dinosaurs helps children to learn all about the world around us, science, history, geography and even numeracy and literacy -all those facts and figures and incomprehensible Latin names (incomprehensible to those of us not currently 6 years old, anyway!)

This Dinosaur Island has a chunky, easy to put together wooden construction, and comes complete with 6 realistic dinosaur friends. Suitable for boys and girls from the age of 3 and up, it is a lovely base for play. A perfect birthday or Christmas gift (oh yes, I said the C word - come on people, it's nearly September!)

If your children love dinosaurs as much as mine do, then you need links, oh yes you do - have a look at this fab resource The Dinosaur Museum

Or for an interactive game to help you learn innumerable facts and figures with a fun interactive interface, have a look here Kidsdinos

Also in stock at Learning SPACE we have Dino puzzles, 3d models, excavating projects, and Discount Product of the Week, a brilliant card/ memory game full of facts and figures about the terrible lizards!

Check back to the blog soon for exciting news about Learning SPACE and Sign2Music's new collaborative project.

New Catalogue Launch - Dyslexia

2011-07-26T15:49:00.005+01:00

Imagine, if you will, that you have a task to complete. You must write out a list that you were told to memorise. You must do this in a noisy environment, with the wrong hand, while a large, loud person gives you additional instructions.You must also do it while wearing the wrong glasses, so the words are blurry and unclear.

You are imagining in some small way how it might feel to have Dyslexia, and study in the average classroom.

Diagnoses of dyslexia are on the increase - the Open University reports a 169% increase in the number of students with the condition in the last ten years. Some statistics estimate as many as 8% of the population are working and studying with dyslexia. It affects people from all ethnic groups and of all abilities - it most certainly does not mean a child is "lazy," or "stupid," or any of the other pejorative labels that may have been attached!

Have a look here for some examples of how text looks to people with Dyslexia.

Diagnosis and support for Dyslexia has moved forward rapidly over the last few years. There is now a huge amount of equipment available to support learning.

Here at Learning SPACE, we have selected products specifically designed to support children with Dyslexia and collected them into our new catalogue.

Here's a couple of links to some of the exciting new products we have available.

Nessy is a piece of software developed by experts in Dyslexia, suitable for children in Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 - it's attractive, motivating and exciting for children, while improving confidence in their own ability.

Yoropen is a super comfortable, ergonomic pen that encourages the correct grip, which helps with handwriting skills.

Coloured overlays have been shown to reduce visual stress and increase reading speed - here is some research that has been carried out.

The entire Dyslexia catalogue is available by calling into our shop, in our online store, emailing, phoning or contacting us on Facebook.

Learning SPACE launch new product range for children with Autism.

2011-06-29T15:08:00.008+01:00

Learning SPACE are excited to announce the launch of our new catalogue, full to bursting with products specifically selected for children and young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

Learning SPACE is a vibrant, exciting independent toy shop right in the heart of Belfast. Founded and staffed by teachers and childcare workers, Learning Space specialises in educational resources, providing an exciting range of toys, games, books - in fact any product that captivates, inspires and educates children!

All children learn in different ways, and at their own speed. Children with additional needs can require more support and specifically tailored equipment and products. This is not always easy to source - in fact, one of the reasons Learning SPACE came into being was the owner’s frustration at being unable to find the products that were needed.

Our new product range is specifically designed for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. It offers solutions for many of the challenges facing children with an ASD and their families. The catalogue covers sensory toys and equipment - from light shows to weighted blankets - toys and games, timers and incentive charts and much more. Everything in one place, so no need to spend hours scouring websites; at competitive prices, and of the highest quality.

Have a look - Autism

Our well trained and experienced staff can help you with any queries you might have - come down and have a chat!

See our Autism Catalogue , call into the shop, phone or email, “like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

What on EARTH happened to summer?

2011-06-21T17:07:00.001+01:00

I mean, I know it's Northern Ireland, and jumpers are generally a good idea, but for goodness' sake the weather fairies are playing us up this month!

If you've got kids (and if you are reading this, you probably have. Or you know someone who does. Or wish you didn't :p) then you will know that Rain Is Not A Parent's Friend. Oh no. There is, after all, a finite amount of time one would prefer one's cherubs to spend goggling at the ~~electronic babysitter~~, sorry, TV, even if it is "educational!"

So I thought this week I might give you some lovely, friendly ideas for Things To Do When The Weather is Evil. Some of them aren't even messy!

First of all, at least it isn't freezing cold. (well, comparatively. Compared to, say, Antarctica) The goblins and I have had some lovely rainy walks on the beach, where the sea creatures are still nice and amenable to being poked at. And the storms have thrown up some fantastic sea junk - never go home empty handed. (NOT for want of trying!) All you need are waterproofs and wellies, and a healthy disregard for the state of your hair and mascara, and away you go!

As for indoor activities, well, there is plenty to be done. How about a sheet of lining paper masking taped to the floor (disclaimer: NOT your best cream shag pile, best attempted with hard floors!) Fill a couple of baking trays with paint, let the children get bare footed and handed and create a wonderful work of art.

Other messy play ideas - instead of playdoh, why not try mashed sweet potato? Or other unusual tastes - especially for younger toddlers and babies, not only is it a fun developmental experience, it is completely edible.

How about a glow-in-the-dark sensory experience - pull the curtains against the torrential rain, or build a den with chairs and blankets, scatter some glow stars and planets around. Wee glow spinning tops, fibreoptic lights, even a glow in the dark jigsaw puzzle! Lots of light and sound products here

When it comes to creating masterpieces, you need lots of wonderful materials - feathers, sequins, foam, stickers, glitter, pom poms and the like. Oh, and lots and lots of sticky glue. Given enough variety, your wee people will amuse themselves (with minimal mess, promise :p) for ages! Have a look here

OK, all my ideas are messy, I admit it, that's all I really like to do :p

Anyone care to share their indoor ideas?

Product Review- Fun To Write

2011-06-21T15:23:00.000+01:00

Age: 3-6 yrs

Why I love it:

Children can learn and practice the correct formation of letters and numbers with this colourful set of practice cards. The best thing is it’s reusable, so children can try again and again until practice really does make perfect!

Reviewer details: Pam Bannister, Teacher, Learning SPACE team

Product Review- Bilibo

2011-06-14T11:09:00.001+01:00

Product of the Week

Product Name: Bilibo

Age: 2-7yrs

Why I love it?

Rock in it, spin in it, stand on it, sit in it, wear it as a fetching hat or as a turtle’s shell - an endlessly versatile toy, brilliant for developing gross motor skills and imaginative play. Also fantastic for kids who crave lots of movement, for example, some children with ADHD/ASD. Comes in a range of attractive, bright colours, long lasting and appears pretty much indestructible.

Reviewer details: Gail Pascoe, teacher & Learning SPACE team member.

A bit about me a bit about Learning SPACE, and a bit about Autism.

2011-06-01T11:56:00.001+01:00

Hey blogsters.

So, here I am working for Learning SPACE as an Educational Product Advisor, and every day I talk to parents whose children have been diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorders. I do my best to help with practicalities (as far as I can!) but sometimes I think the best help of all is just talking to people who understand!

Here at Learning SPACE, we have a real interest in supporting families affected by Autistic Spectrum Disorder, as well as other Additional Needs. We have developed a list of product ideas through the help of parents, therapists, teachers and, of course, kids.

I have a particular interest in ASD - my five (nearly six, where does the time go?) year old son was diagnosed with High Functioning Autism just over a year ago.

We knew, of course we did, that our quirky little person wasn’t your average wee lad. But it still came as a massive shock. I remember saying to the diagnosing Paediatrician, “do you mean he’s borderline? Like a bit Autistic?”

And her reply that, no, it was quite clear, my perfect little boy was on the spectrum, and has this inexplicable, poorly understood disorder.

I went in to denial for a few weeks – but in order to get the support on offer, we had to accept the diagnosis, so accept it we did. Then I spent time being really angry – why did nobody help 2 years previously, when I was looked at like a madwoman for suggesting that my 2 year old was not developing normally, why was there no support then?

Eventually, I came to accept the diagnosis, and we dragged him from appointment to appointment to appointment, but the initial flurry has died down, and life is pretty good for us now, with good routines and structures in place.

If you are a parent of a child with additional needs, it can feel pretty isolating. There are lots of great support groups out there though, either online or in the real world – here are some wee links for you to try out.

Mumsnet Special Needs support forum
National Autistic Society forum
Autism NI
Learning SPACE's ASD tailored products

And please, call in to Learning SPACE, or give us a call – we have lots of ideas, books and products that can help to make life a little easier for you and your child.

Gail Pascoe, Qualified teacher of Special Needs and Music, and mum to 3 completely brilliant goblins, one of whom happens to have Autism.

Baby Talk - signing with your baby.

2011-05-25T17:30:00.000+01:00

Hello, blog followers!

Here at Learning SPACE, we have introduced a new free activity on Wednesday mornings at 10 am.

It’s a lovely, relaxing and bonding time for parent or carer and child, but also has a very practical learning goal -introducing you to signing with your baby.

Signing with small children is still a relatively new concept, so I will answer some FAQ here.

First of all, why sign with your baby?

· Babies can understand and use gesture to communicate long before speech develops. Signing is a very useful way to communicate meaningfully and easily at a surprisingly early age.

· Being able to clearly communicate their needs reduces frustration for both child and parent or carer.

· Signing enriches relationships with family and friends, and encourages the development of speech.

· Babies and toddlers who can communicate well will be more confident and have good self-esteem.

· The classes are run by a qualified teacher of music and special needs and use a multi-sensory approach to stimulate your child.

· Being able to sign is also a useful life skill – my own daughter used signs as a baby, and now has a good signing vocabulary that she is confident to use with her friends who communicate through sign.

Does signing with my baby discourage speech development?

NO! Definitely not. If anything, the increased level of communication helps with the development of speech. Babies will naturally use gesture, baby signing simply develops this ability alongside speech.

When should we start signing?

You could start from birth, but most babies begin to sign back at around 6-7 months old.

It is very important to be consistent – always make the same sign with the same word. Remember never to use a sign without also speaking the word. Repetition is the key to learning!

Which signs should we learn?

The most useful, and most likely to be used signs, are those which reflect the things that are important to your child. For this reason, we always begin the sessions with a recap of the most important things to most babies – milk, more, food, finished, mummy/ daddy.

There is then a themed section – for example, farm animals, games, clothes etc. Every child is different, so they will learn different signs at different rates.

When can we start?

The free sessions in Learning SPACE take place every Wednesday morning at 10 am – places are limited, so please do book ahead. You can book on the phone, or through Facebook, or by emailing info@learningspaceni.co.uk

Feel free to contact us with further questions.

Hope to see you at a session soon!

Gail Pascoe

Qualified teacher of Special Needs and Music, and mum to 3 completely brilliant goblins!

Product of the Week

2010-11-19T17:13:00.000Z

Product of the Week

Product Name: Tellatale Puppets

Age: 2+

Why I love it? I love the brightly-coloured, beautifully stitched velour outfit each puppet is dressed in. Each seems to have a unique personality. I’m particularly fond of the green dragon and the knight on horseback, with his lance at his side. Puppets are a wonderful way of encouraging kids to retell the stories they know and develop their confidence in the use of language and creative expression.Manipulating the puppets also helps develop motor skills in a fun way. Undoubtedly, a product for all the family to enjoy!

Reviewer details: Claire Gordon, MFL teacher, Learning SPACE sales assistant

http://www.learningspaceni.co.uk/products/tellatale-puppet-green-dragon/

Learning SPACE Halloween Window Competition

2010-11-02T22:08:00.001Z

Congratulations to class S2 at Rathore who won best Halloween window display at Learning SPACE with Dracula.

Closely followed coming joint second were class J4 for Frankenstein and class S5/Post 16 for The Silhouette.

Our customers loved them and they made our window very scary!! It was a tough competition and well done to all classes that entered!

Sophie la Giraffe Product of the Week

2010-10-22T21:37:00.000+01:00

Product of the Week: Sophie La Giraffe Teething Toy
Age: newborn +
Why I love it? We got this in after high demand. Was a bit sceptical at first but babies just seem to love Sophie. Maybe it’s the squeaky sound! Because it is the perfect size for little hands to grab in different ways! Or that it is so chewable! What I am sure about is that the loveable Sophie la Giraffe makes such a cute gift and keeps the little ones amused!
Reviewer: Lorraine McAleer, experienced teacher, Learning SPACE manager

http://www.learningspaceni.co.uk/shop/gift-ideas/0-18-months/

Learning SPACE video

2010-01-25T13:39:00.000Z

Learning SPACE

2010-01-25T12:40:00.000Z

What a hectic and fun Christmas we had at Learning Space. We are really happy with all our achievements and positive responses we have received in 2009 and are excited about 2010!

I’m heading over to the London Toy Fair in January, Spring Fair in February and Education Show in March and I can’t wait! The shop will be full of more inspiring educational toys in no time!

Changes in the website have just been completed making it easier now for schools to order online, easier search options and basically a revamp!! I hope you like the changes!

Here’s to 2010, full of fun and learning!