Alexis Ralphs

I'm Alexis, father of four and founder of One Hundred Toys, Get Set Five, A Year With My Child. I taught in London primary schools for thirteen years, specialising in the early years. I studied at the Institute of Education, part of the University of London, both for my PGCE and my as-yet-unfinished masters. I'm especially interested in schemas and how they help us understand the motivations behind toddlers' play.

Understanding the Montessori Method: Practical Life Activities

Uncategorized / By

Are you attracted to the Montessori method? What is it that appeals? The beautiful environment? The organisation? The practical activities? The Montessori method is an engaging educational model that continues to captivate parents and educators alike. But what is it that makes it so special? What Makes Montessori Unique: Didactic Materials As a teacher, what […]

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Heuristic play

Play / By

Here is a toddler and here is a cardboard box. Curious, the little boy crawls inside. He peers out, like a fox from his den, pleased with his work. He tugs at one of the flaps. Now you see me, now you don’t. It’s a discovery that amuses him greatly and he repeats the action

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Games with rules

Play / By

Games with rules are the third of the four types of play outlined by Sara Smilansky, a developmental psychologist who studied how play develops in young children. The rest of the series is here: What are games with rules? When you think of games with rules, what comes to mind? Cricket? Snakes and Ladders? These

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Sorting activities | Help to your child organise her thinking

The 100, Uncategorized / By

Sorting is the most important activity your child will ever do. Without it, no other kinds of play are possible. And done right it’s a superpower. In this simple guide we’ll explore different sorting activities and how best to introduce them. What is sorting and why is it important? Sorting is simple. Just group things

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