Finding our Rhythm

I think we are finding our rhythm. It takes time to settle into our new lives together and this week there was a new feeling; a trust, a softness, an understanding, a commitment. It felt amazing! The week was filled with so many lovely moments– children already achieved things they did not know they could do whether it be physically, emotionally or intellectually. The ability to take risks is based on several factors, namely trust. The children are beginning to trust that we will keep them safe while still encouraging them to stretch their skill sets. As educators, I think one of our roles is to help children see themselves in a new light.

Here are some moments from our week together–

Some children call this the Tree Tunnel.

This group sat down to sketch the Tree Tunnel.

Lina, deep in concentration.

Nikolas expresses his idea of the tunnel.

Miles took his time drawing his sketch.

Claire’s Tree Tunnel.

“Rock climbing”

Ty proudly holds a worm.

Planting fava beans.

Jasmine and Amelia begin to develop a friendship.

Nathan explores putting pebbles in the tube. He watches to see where they go. He is making connections, figuring out the two ends.

Damon and Nell find a hide-away.

Claire helps to make a flower potion to deliver to her other friends.

Outdoor playdough- children were not only allowed but encouraged to mix the dough with pebbles and grasses.

Cooperation at its finest! The children pulled the wagon all the way from the Barn to the Parson’s House.

Ryan and Damian collect our shelled beans.

We do our farm chores- weeding our garden beds so we can plant garlic next week.

Hannah takes a break from her chores!

We were in the right place at the right time. The truck arrived to pour cement for the ramp leading up to the Cottage.

Kate discusses colour mixing and finding the subtle nuances of shades. Allowing the children to work slowly and with only a few options, provokes a thoughtfulness to the work and materials.