A-Maze-ing Maps.

I introduced an old street map to the dress up area the other day. After noticing how much the kids were studying it I suggested that they spread it out on the table to see it a little better.

I grabbed some markers and circled a landmark at the bottom and also at the top of the map. One interested child then traced along the roads, like a maze, to create a path from start to finish. 

 After the introduction they started circling their own start and finish locations.  I suggested using a different color marker each time to help prevent confusion. 

They experimented with both long and short trips. They also realized the blue lines were rivers and avoided traveling on those.

It wasn't long before they started asking what different lines and colors and symbols meant. 

Of course some friends prefer "the road less traveled." 

Our Nature Playground

When I first decided to create a new outdoor play space for the children I had a million ideas and visions of what it would look like. I knew it would take time. Other teachers told me to wait and see how they use it before I did too much. I spent hours on pinterest window shopping and daydreaming of all the features I wanted. I still look at my pinterest board and add to it regularly. 

There are so many wonderful things happening around the world with the natural playground movement.

About three years have gone by and not much has been added. We brought in some stumps and logs, wood chips, pallets, spools and a fantastic rope that had washed up on a beach. All these free of charge thanks to friends and family. 

Simplicity

"To find the universal elements enough; to find the air and the water exhilarating; to be refreshed by a morning walk or an evening saunter...to be thrilled by the stars at night; to be elated over a bird's nest or a wildflower in spring -- these are some of the rewards of the simple life. -John Burroughs

Rope.

Rocks.

Sticks.

Flora and Fauna.

"Wait and see" was the best advice ever. 

They have spaces. Lots of spaces. 

That's all they need.

Spaces to run.

Spaces to climb.

Spaces to collect.

Spaces to gather.

Spaces to be alone.

"We have such a brief opportunity to pass on to our children our love for this Earth, and to tell our stories. These are the moments when the world is made whole. In my children's memories, the adventures we've had together in nature will always exist."  Richard Louv

Please check out how other children around the world are getting outside to play at the Outdoor Play Party link up. 

Dandelions and Apple Blossoms (and soup)

Circles, Spots and Polka Dots 2014: Art Show

To kick off our summer, families were invited to join their preschoolers for an evening Art Show. Everyone was encouraged to wear Circles, Spots or Polka Dots. They were also invited to contribute a circle-themed dish to our food table. It is exciting to see all the creativity put into finding circles to wear and eat.

The preschoolers enjoyed showing off their artwork and searching around the room for their "Featured Artist Balloons." 

There was a sensory table full of water beads that attracted quite a crowd (and a few grapes). 

In the block area attendees found ramps and ballpit balls along with a photo slideshow of the children's art process. 

Thank you to all the children and their families for making this event so memorable!

Here is the link to the 

Circle, Spots and Polka Dots 2013 Art Show