Vet Clinic Clipboards: Role Play Writing Activity for Reception

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Set the Scene Together

Don't just build the clinic while they are gone; involve them! Make a 'Vets' sign together and arrange the stuffed animals in a waiting room. Add doctor's coats or aprons if you have them.

2. Introduce the Paperwork

Show them the clipboards and explain that a good vet always writes notes. Provide both blank paper for emergent mark-making and simple printed templates (like a drawing of a dog with tick-boxes for ears, paws, tail).

3. Model the Role Play

Take on a role yourself. Pick up a teddy bear, examine it, and grab a clipboard. Model sounding out a label: "Oh dear, a poorly leg. I will write l-e-g on my form." Then bandage the bear.

4. Step Back and Observe

Let them take over the continuous provision. You will see children writing 'prescriptions' with random letter strings, ticking boxes, and writing pet names. All of this counts as valuable writing practice.

5. Review the Vet Notes

During tidy-up time, ask the 'vets' to read their notes back to the class. "Who did you treat today? What does your prescription say?" Validate all their emergent reading and writing.

Classroom Adaptations

Large class?

Add a 'receptionist' desk with a ringing phone and appointment diary to involve more children in the writing.

Limited resources?

Use the backs of old letters or scrap paper, and ask staff or parents to donate unwanted soft toys.

Mixed ages?

Younger children can focus on scribbling 'prescriptions', while older ones write CVC labels for body parts.

High ability?

Provide a sign-making station so they can write 'keep out' or warning notices for dangerous animals.