Another week in Shale gone by so fast! This week we noticed a lot of our little Shale citizens really took a liking to climbing and exploring small spaces.
Small Spaces
Since we were doing a lot of locker exploring, we decided to set something up in our classroom to give the children a space of their own to explore and hide in. We took two of our shelves, emptied them out and set them on their sides vertically so that the shelves are standing upright. This gives the children an opportunity to sit or stand in the small open areas, replicating the lockers. As the children watched what we were doing with the shelving, they were instantly intrigued and came right over and started exploring the shelves just as they were with the lockers. Wow, amazing how we as facilitators of play can manipulate one thing to look and feel like another – the children loved it!
Climbing
As Shale children explored our play space inside as well as out, we provided the children safe experiences set up for exploring as they were stepping, walking, climbing, and sliding. Some of the children had the opportunity to practice as they explored the outside play space. Our friends that are able to walk were able to travel across the stumps; jumping, crawling, and walking. As we provided these safe spaces it allowed for freedom to risk taking. The children’s willingness to do so, reflects self confidence, body strength, and a sense of security.
Along with all of the benefits we’ve discussed, something that the children really gain from both small spaces and climbing is that it makes themselves feel larger and empowered in a world that usually is bigger then them!
We would like for you at home to make some small spaces and maybe even some climbing areas for your child to explore. What are your comfort levels with this risk taking play? Come in on Monday and share your experiences! ??
Finally, a reminder that on Monday, October 31 we ask for your child to come dressed in their favourite Halloween costumes! We will be visiting the seniors to show off our cutest Halloween looks. ??
Cassi, Young, Michelle and Sarah
