Nature Play

On May 24, 2016, we went outside to play in our front playground. I (Mrs. Javier) brought out different kinds of toys such as cars, balls, pails, shovels, and books for the children to play with. The children played with some of the toys for a little while, then I noticed that most of them are not really interested. Instead, they were very occupied doing different things on their own and playing with what nature has for them.

In this photo, all three children are enjoying their car rides.

After a few minutes, the children started noticing the tent caterpillars crawling on the ground.
One child asked "Ms. Javier, what is that?" "Those are tent worms," I answered.
"Tent worms?" she asked again. I said "Yes!" Then she said "Oh, okay. Hi tent worms!"
Then they continued watching until the worm crawled into the grass and disappeared.

A child started picking the dandelions, she came to me with a smile saying "Flowers!"

Another child picked a flower and started smelling it!

One of the children got so excited when a bunny came to our nature area and started hopping around.

This child found a stick on the ground and started inserting it between the spaces of our bench.

And after a beautiful sunny day, how relaxing it is to sit with a friend and have a cool, refreshing drink.

Playing and spending the day outside helps the children to be more creative. They are able to explore and learn new things everyday. They get to be involved and witness how their surroundings are changing. They make use of almost everything they see outside, have fun and share it with others. The time they are spending outside is never enough because they always find new things to do, new creatures to explore, and new ideas to share.

"Time in nature is not leisure time, it's an essential investment in our children's health."

-Richard Louv-

 

LEAVE NO CHILD INSIDE

 

-Mrs. Javier-