outdoor classroom 10-16-17

On Monday, the children eagerly ventured into the woods - excited for our outdoor classroom. Some Kindergarteners wondered about the note they had left for the fairies the previous week, will the note still be there? Did the fairies visit? Many Kindergarteners hoped to add on to their large and small structures, discussing the sticks they may find. There was - as there always is - a sense of joy and wonder as we stepped over and around the roots and rocks leading to our outdoor space.

 

 ZM finds the longest sticks to add to her fort. Watch, she calls, as she slowly lifts a heavy branch. She takes one careful step after another across the pine needles, exclaiming, I'm SO strong!

 

IM and ML look for the note they had left for the fairies. The paper and cardboard are found on the edge of the woods, near the entrance to our space. We all wonder, did a fairy move the note?

How do you know if a fairy has been here? - CS

You know a fairy has been here if you find gold, we have to look for gold dust. - IM

We should write another note and ask for their name! - IM

Welcome Fairies.

Do not touch.

Sign your name, please. 

 

TW rushes through the woods, stopping to pick up a notebook. His body is suddenly still, except for the motion of his hand across the paper. It is important to offer and encourage a variety of experiences in our outdoor space, bringing paper, pencils, and crayons supports children's interest in writing and drawing what they see, experience, and feel within the woods - representation becomes part of their play and exploration. Next week, I will introduce outdoor classroom journals for each child to have.