As i mentioned earlier we have been learning about Where do birds go in winter and how do they keep themself warm , what do they eat? While there is not much food outside because of snow and cold weather.Children also looked for foot prints of different animals, and followed the foot prints to see where did they(animals) go.It was interesting to see how inquisitive children were to learn about the animals and their problems they face in cold weather. While children were exploring Nature, they were learning about cold weathers, Bird migration, hybernation, change of weathers. Temperature changes. Different foot prints and their own foot prints. Science while playing. Children were counting how many different kind of foot prints they found. How many pine trees we have in our back yard, which one is the tallest tree and the littlest tree, why some trees have leaves while others don't. Also bigger boys instead of making snow angels love to write foot print alphabets (especially writing their names). We made a game of writing their names with their foot prints. That was fun. They learned to write alphabets.
Children do learn best while playing! they remember better when learning is fun instead of just work and academics. Also it is my observation children are more co-operative with each other in outdoor environment and behave much calmer than indoors. Even kids who come to school not in a good mood or tired, as soon as we start talking about going outside their eyes spark and they forget being unhappy or sad. Children being outdoors in Nature, learn to respect our environment and learn to love and value other creatures as well as their importance as part of universe. Being out doors children get good physical exercise, which is important for their physical development as well as mental development.They also develop their social, emotional skills as well as cognitive and motor skills. They learn to resolve their problems, develop their judgemental skills while climbing trees and exploring outdoors.
You must have noticed whenever we spend time outdoors children are happier and talk about their outdoor experiences. They enjoy to shares their thoughts much enthusiastically.Children must be given ample opportunity to express themself. They feel acknowledged that way, and realizes that their presense is valued by the adults.Which gives them confidence to explore.We should be there to guide them but not to impose our thoughts and decisions on them, do not spoon feed their learning process. My emphasis is on encouraging them to explore and research for answers to their questions. Which we enjoy doing together through different books and on my laptop. I hope you all enjoy our January blog, As we start with our new project of February, of Train Engines.
