We have a number of classroom resources which we use very frequently and can be used in a range of ways within different activities.  Although often costly, these are things which we have used week-in-week-out and have stood the test of time.  We like to choose resources which can be used creatively in a number of different ways for open-ended play-based activities.  

Using UV light and fluorescent resources can turn frequently visited activities into a seemingly new learning environment which is visually appealing and fun. 

Classroom use

We use our UV lamp for at least one week of carousel play per half term and also at other times in the specific ‘dark area’ to create UV activities for individual pupils.  During a week of carousel play, this UV light can be placed high up and then lights an entire darkened classroom effectively.  UV activities are extremely visually appealing and entice children to want to join in and participate.  

Play in different ways

You will need a wide selection of fluorescent resources to use within your activities.  Along with fluorescent toys and resources, we use fluorescent paint to make water, sand and rice activities which all glow under UV.  This works really effectively.  During ‘UV week’, which is always linked to the topic, we often also use a range of light-up resources such as the lightbox which are equally effective in a darkened classroom environment.  Carrying out activities in a darkened classroom under UV light, creates a different and extremely appealing learning environment which promotes engagement and participation for all.

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These are just a few examples of how we have used our UV lamp.  We use it for at least one week per half term for a wide range of topic-linked activities along with regular use with fluorescent resources in our ‘dark area’.

Look out for our blog post Carousel Play: Using UV for planning and ideas.

If you are enjoying our content, The Springboard Curriculum is available to buy here as an immediate digital download. You can follow the link to view sample pages before you buy. The reason we decided to share our work? To allow educators to use their time creatively to maximise play and tailor the learning activities to the strengths and challenges of each pupil.

£1 of every sale goes to the school’s charity to give back to the educators and pupils who inspired the curriculum.

NB: These product reviews are based on our own experiences.  We have no affiliate links and receive no payments from any companies we reference.  Similar resources may be available from other suppliers.