As the leaves turn and the days grow cosier, we’re excited to share our line-up of autumn nursery events in Sutton Coldfield—a season of culture, crafts and curiosity at Rowans Nursery. Each activity is carefully planned to spark imagination, build confidence and support early learning through the EYFS.
Have a question or want to confirm attendance? Contact our friendly team on 0121 354 1752.
Diwali Week – Festival of Lights (Whole Week of Creative Learning)
Monday, October 20th to Friday, October 24th
This year, our celebration of Diwali spans a whole week, giving children time to explore the festival of lights through art, music, movement and food. Diwali is a wonderful way to talk about light overcoming darkness, new beginnings and everyday kindness—while developing cultural awareness and respect for others.
What’s happening through the week:
• Rangoli studios: Children design colourful rangoli patterns with safe, child-friendly materials, exploring symmetry, shapes and colour blending.
• Diva lamps & storytelling: We’ll make simple paper/clay diva lamps and share gentle stories about Diwali traditions, family gatherings and lights of hope.
• Music & dance tasters: Short sessions introduce Indian rhythms and movement, encouraging listening, coordination and turn-taking.
• Tasting & talking: We’ll learn about festive sweets and spices; allergy and dietary needs are always respected.
• Light & shadow play: Using torches and translucent materials, children investigate shadows, patterns and safe light play.
• Acts of kindness wall: Each child adds a drawing or message about a kind deed to our “Festival of Lights” display.
Learning focus: Communication and language, expressive arts, personal, social and emotional development, plus early maths through pattern-making. Read more about how we support development in our EYFS approach.
What to bring: If your family has a Diwali story, image or textile to share, you’re welcome to send it in (labelled, please). Comfortable, easy-wash clothes are best for craft activities.
Photograph Day – Capturing Precious Moments
Wednesday, October 22nd (from 8:30 AM)
Our professional photographer will be on site to take individual and group portraits—memories you’ll treasure for years. We keep sessions calm and encouraging so children feel relaxed and confident.
How to prepare for the best results:
• If your child arrives before 10:00 AM, please bring them dressed in their photo outfit.
• If arriving after 10:00 AM, send a clearly labelled bag with their outfit; our team will help them change before their turn.
• Choose comfortable clothing in solid colours where possible; avoid large logos or very busy patterns.
• A small brush/comb helps with quick touch-ups.
• If your child uses a comforter, you can send it—we’ll keep it nearby and out of shot where possible.
Camera-shy? No worries. We take a child-led approach and can offer another moment later in the morning/afternoon if needed.
Halloween Fancy Dress Party – Spooktacular Fun
Friday, October 31st, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Get ready for a frightfully fun afternoon! Our Halloween party encourages creativity and social play, with age-appropriate activities throughout.
What’s on:
• Costume parade: Every child can show their outfit, with cheers and positive encouragement.
• Pumpkin & autumn crafts: Low-mess stations for decorating mini pumpkins, leaf rubbings and autumn crown-making.
• Halloween games & treasure hunts: Simple, collaborative games that build teamwork and confidence.
• Spooky (but gentle) storytelling: Friendly tales and puppets—no jump scares!
• Tasty treats & refreshments: A small selection of Halloween-themed snacks—dietary needs always respected.
Costume tips: Please prioritise comfort and safety. Face paint is welcome; masks are best avoided as they can limit visibility and communication. Soft shoes and layers are ideal. Homemade costumes are brilliant—simple ideas like animal ears, capes or colourful hats work wonderfully.
Looking for more seasonal ideas? Take a peek at our post on nursery outdoor activities in Sutton Coldfield for autumn-friendly inspiration.
Bonfire Night Activities – Learning Through Exploration
Wednesday, November 5th
Our Bonfire Night theme day helps children understand the history of the celebration alongside fire safety and seasonal changes. Everything is delivered in a calm, age-appropriate way to inform without frightening.
Planned activities:
• Firework art studio: Splatter, stamping and scraping techniques on dark paper to create safe “firework skies.”
• Sparkler trails: Using ribbons and glow sticks indoors to mimic sparkler lines—no real sparks involved.
• History in simple stories: A gentle, age-appropriate explanation of the tradition behind Bonfire Night.
• Safety first: Circle times that discuss safe distances and staying close to trusted adults—framed positively.
• Autumn nature table: Leaves, conkers and pinecones for sorting, counting and sensory exploration.
• Seasonal nibbles: A small taste of autumnal flavours aligned with dietary needs.
What to bring: A labelled jumper or cardigan is helpful for outdoor play; please ensure all outerwear is clearly named.
If you’re exploring childcare during the school breaks, our Holiday Club offers fun, flexible options throughout the year.
Why These Events Matter
Our autumn nursery events in Sutton Coldfield are designed to nurture the whole child. Through hands-on experiences, children develop:
• Creativity & expression (art, music, dance, storytelling)
• Language & communication (new vocabulary, turn-taking, listening)
• Personal, social & emotional skills (confidence, empathy, inclusion)
• Understanding of the world (cultures, seasons, traditions, safety)
• Early maths & fine motor skills (patterns, shapes, cutting, sticking, tool control)
You can discover more about our ethos and day-to-day learning on our News & Events hub and in our overview of the Early Years Foundation Stage at Rowans.
Questions or to confirm attendance? Contact us here or call 0121 354 1752.
Parent Checklist (Optional, but Handy!)
• Labelled water bottle and any comforter your child may need
• Spare clothes (craft can be gloriously messy!)
• Photo Day outfit (labelled if arriving after 10:00 AM)
• Warm layer for outdoor activities during Bonfire Night learning
• Let us know if dietary/allergy information has changed
FAQs
Do I need to book for Diwali Week?
Diwali activities run throughout normal sessions from Monday, October 20th to Friday, October 24th. If any small-group activities require a sign-up, we’ll notify you via our usual channels.
What should my child wear on Photograph Day?
Comfortable clothes they feel great in. Solid colours work well; avoid large logos or busy patterns. If arriving after 10:00 AM, pop their outfit in a labelled bag and we’ll help them change.
Are Halloween costumes compulsory?
Not at all. Children can join in however they feel comfortable. Face paint is fine; masks are best avoided for safety and communication.
How do you teach fire safety for Bonfire Night?
Through gentle stories, role-play and positive tips (e.g., staying close to trusted adults). We focus on understanding and reassurance—no frightening imagery.
Where can I learn more about your approach to learning?
Read about our EYFS approach and browse recent updates on our News & Events page.
How do I get in touch?
Just contact us or call 0121 354 1752—we’re happy to help.
