The outdoor bargains continue galore. This week I popped into Asda, where the sale now runs at 75% of the original price. Here’s an illustration of the potential of items found in supermarkets:

• Two more kites – forces, flight, aerodynamics, technology.
• Funky knee pad and garden gloves (37.5p per pair!) - knee pads make useful portable seating and are easy to clean.
• Bubble kits galore – every school and nursery needs a bubble box for practical science and maths activities. I like to build up different sorts, so that there’s plenty for a large group or class. This can supplement gadgets and shapes made by the children.
• A rubber chess mat. Great for work on patterns, tessellation and practical problem solving.
• A portable target board for hanging up. Simple, but great for schools which can’t leave resources outside overnight.
• A foldaway 3 litre bucket from the camping section (also in the sale). It cost me 75p which compares favourably to £10 in an early years catalogue. Great for centres where lack of storage is a nightmare.

Before the summer holidays start next year (oh yes, I’m forward thinking!) I’m going to send a wee reminder about this to schools. If the PTA or school funds can be found, huge saving can be made buying outdoor gear in the summer sales. Next stop? B&Q or Au Naturale? Watch this space!