Scarecrows, tractors and harvesting
We had such a wonderful week in the forest. October brings lots of new material for the children to explore and opportunities to learn about harvesting and gardening, and the transition into a new season.
Our mornings in the forest begin with circle time and the forest rules are starting to become embedded in the children’s minds. We also talk about oral health and the importance of brushing our teeth. The children enjoy having a go at brushing Piraty’s (our rainbow parrot) teeth using the tooth paste and toothbrush, showing their peers and educators how they brush their teeth at home!
Florence decided to make a friendly scarecrow with the children this week. We’ve gathered some clothes and natural materials, mixed with excitement and imagination to create the most amazing ‘Mr MacGregor’! The children went on an adventure walk on their way to camp to collect some magnolia leaves, which were perfect for filling our scarecrow! They used their fine motor skills to dress up Mr MacGregor, drew a face and hands using leaves and cardboard and in no time, our scarecrow was ready!
Teaching our children about the different seeds they can plant this time of year with vegetables and plants they can harvest has been a delight. They want to learn more and seek books with illustrations to read and say things such as “there are pumpkins for Halloween!”
The younger children have been experimenting balancing on smaller logs, walking on obstacle courses and extending the tract by adding planks, logs, benches and bridges over deep puddles. By assessing their own abilities and limitations, our Little Forest Folk-ers are gradually building their core strength, their gross motor skills, their resilience and confidence. Some children needed some support from an educator, others decided to try by themselves after observing their peers.
This activity is also excellent to promote turn taking skills, patience and managing feelings. The children listen to the rules – “one at a time”, or “wait until your friend is finished” but it’s all too exciting and everyone wants to have a go! With some support from an educator, the young children are learning to use their words and negotiate their personal space.
Experimenting with colours was a popular activity this week. From mixing colours with a paint brush, to using their fingers, hands and elbows, our children had a lovely time using paint, pens and chalk. They also used potatoes as stamps, which was a huge success! From shapes to zig zag patterns, the children took their time understanding how to dip the potato in the paint, add water to get the right consistency and make beautiful paintings!
We have been creating various areas in the forest which extend children’s interest in numbers and letters. We’ve already noticed how they are so much more interested in mark making and using new vocabulary they learn every day! We are absolutely delighted to be able to see how the children grow, learn and play each day in the forest.
Have a marvellous weekend everyone!
Little Forest Folk
Fulham