The possibilities of an experience connect to the complexity of the environment. In the classroom, simple open-ended materials invite children to explore possibilities, experience the moment fully, and connect with others.
Read MoreTree climbing is a part of the childhood experience. An experience that many children no longer not have access to. For many reasons tree climbing seems like an activity from the past. This is a story how a group of children in summer camp enjoyed one of life’s great pleasures.
Read MoreA gentle snow starts falling from the sky. Two children are inspired by the moment and begin to play. What are the elements that make up a play experience? What can we learn as an educator about the joy that comes from immersing ourselves in the moment?
Read MoreSchool begins in about a month. After Labor Day, I will again see hundreds of children walk down to the school bus for their first day. For their benefit, I wish they would go outside sooner.
Read MoreOutside physical activity balances the school day. It provides children an opportunity to recharge, refocus, and rejuvenate their body and mind in preparation for the next learning adventure. It creates a connection to the outside world that helps all of us stay in balance.
Read MoreAs winter moves toward spring in the Northern Hemisphere many people look forward to warming temperatures. More sunshine, longer days, and more opportunities to be outside.The opportunities for outside activities in the winter are numerous, but many folks hibernate this time of year and long for the change in seasons. The same is true for many child development programs.
Read MoreIn society today, adults and children have changed their connection with nature. The transformation is having adverse effects on our existence.In Early Childhood Education, there is a movement that will help our communities and country regain our connection to nature.
Read MoreAdventure playgrounds are a natural extension of the growing movement toward conservation. Adventure playgrounds promote a conscious use of resources. Instead of creating more landfills, children can use recycled materials to create, take risks, and seek adventure.
Read MoreIn big cities, what opportunities are available for children to enjoy the challenge and fun of being outdoors? In Los Angeles, at the NAEYC conference, one program shared a workshop on this topic. The presentation was wonderful. It opened my eyes to the possibilities of playgrounds in big city programs.
Read MoreRecently, I was riding home and I noticed a large group of children playing at the end of the street. The sight of many children out in the middle of the day playing, with no adults around, was wonderful. The children were loud and busy having fun riding their bikes, running around and drawing with sidewalk chalk all over the street.
Read MoreThe most popular place in a modern playground is the loose material it stands on. It could be grass, sand, dirt, or bark chips this is where we find most of the children playing.
Read MoreAt my current school we have a traditional playground. The children like to play in the space, but generally they create other games that involve more risk than the equipment was intended for. This is story about how the children create their own play in a space designed by adults.
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