A Teacher's Reflections

Sometimes play is not what I expected, yet turns into something wonderful. Last month was one of those days.  When we went outside, class photos were being taken under the tree, so we couldn’t use the playground. We had to use the Peace Pole area for outdoor play.  Leave it to children to figure out play, without a sandbox, trikes, or climbers.

Children ran like the wind back and forth, carrying and throwing a ball.  It was a breath of fresh air, newfound fun.

Next, they set up and climbed on top of big tree stumps to play ‘hot lava’.  It was very popular and included a lava monster. Then, dinosaurs became part of their play, so we brought over the dinosaurs from the dinosaur den.  Who wouldn’t love to play escaping dinosaurs and hot lava?

Do you see what is happening here?
Children are making up their own play.
No adult has interfered.
No wonder they were so happy.

After we brought over the dinosaurs, children continued to use the tree stumps and began to sing a popular dinosaur song. When children create their own play, friendships and cooperation flourish. And, anything child directed is much more fun.

Oh, there’s more!

Our final element about playing outside had children tired and happy from so much running and inventive play.  They needed a rest.  So they went to a shady spot – our Memory Garden.  Children have been there before, but not like today.  It was a ‘discovery’ in a deeper way.

Most children sat along the edge, wanting a rest in the shade from their hard play. Then the questions began.  First we found ‘Sparkles’ painted rock. She was our hamster who died.  Then they wanted to know the names on the other rocks and what animal it represented. We found beloved Aqua Room guinea pigs from long ago. We talked about not disturbing the rocks, as they were important for remembering pets and even loved ones.  Yes, there is a Captain America stone for a past dad and a dragonfly stone for a past child.  Of course children asked questions.

Is the dad under the Captain America rock?

No, he is buried in a place for people.
He loved Captain America,
so the stone helps us remember him.

There was nothing sad in the discussion, just learning and curiosity, and answering children’s questions honestly. It was quite wonderful.  Grown-ups have a hard time talking about death and dying with children.  My advice is to listen and let them talk.  Sometimes that’s all they need.  Read on…

All Because of a Dragonfly… Talking Death With Children

Jennie