Having a connection to the natural environment is a vital aspect of not only our program, but our community. This connection to the natural environment is a foundation of keeping one grounded to their birth land. Children at our program enjoy outdoor time, as they are very physically driven. We have classroom gardens, and are currently re-designing on of the gardens. The children enjoy getting their hands dirty, finding worms, taking out weeds, and harvesting. The check the papayas, avocados, and bananas daily, and will let us know if we need to pick them. Whichever child picks them may take it home, eat it for lunch or give it to a friend. We also take walks around the park, through nearby businesses, and to one of our two grocery stores. On these walks, we spend time using all of our senses, listening to birds, smelling and looking at the beautiful flowers, and touching different textures of natural items. Supporting their connection to the natural environment continues to enhance their responsibilties to the natural world.
I enjoyed reading about her vision, her drive, and support. Sarah was able to take an important aspect that she felt children were missing, create committees, use resources, fund raise, and build a long term curriculum that involves children, staff, parents, and community. I recognize that many children in urban areas lack outdoor play and a connection to the natural environment, so having a director like Sarah can provide many learning opportunities that is life long and important.
Hi Anjo,
ReplyDeleteYou mentioned that all your children at the program enjoy outdoor time and are physically driven, but what would you do if there is that one child who doesn't want to go outside? There just may be that one child one day who doesn't want to go out and get dirty, how would you get them to participate or accommodate them so they are still learning with everyone else?
Hey there,
ReplyDeleteWhat can you take from Sarah’s approach towards reaching goals within your practice? Are there discussions in your program that would further the children’s interest and knowledge about their surrounding environment? For example you mentioned that they observe the fruit growing on the property, are there discussions on how the fruit got there? What the plants needed to survive? I love that you take the children for walks around the neighborhood. Where in your policies and vision does it support a healthy relationship with the environment? How would you go about designing assessments and objectives in your focus?