Throughout September and early October, the SA2 children have embraced opportunities to explore the forest, discover the natural world, and create their own adventures through outdoor play.
During our visits, the children became nature detectives, searching for mushrooms and fungi using picture identification sheets, observing trees and the forest floor as the season changed, and collecting natural treasures such as colourful leaves, rocks, and sticks. They eagerly shared their discoveries with friends, asked questions, and explored the wonders of their surroundings.
Our adventures soon grew into imaginative play. During a visit, the educators Julia and Krista-ann gave the children a special challenge: Could they build something using only objects found on the forest floor? They experimented with balancing and arranging sticks, working together to create forts large enough for friends to join. Others imagined their structures as homes for forest animals or gathered sticks to create pretend campfires. Their ideas continued to grow as they collaborated and built upon one another's imagination.
We also encountered a tiny orange and black salamander! The children paused to observe this exciting discovery, creating an opportunity to discuss the living creatures that call the forest home and the importance of respecting their habitats.
Throughout these experiences, the children demonstrated creativity, cooperation, persistence, and problem-solving. They tested ideas, adjusted their structures, shared discoveries, and helped one another. Having the freedom to explore at their own pace allowed them to take ownership of their learning and follow their natural curiosity. These experiences connect with the foundations of How Does Learning Happen? through engagement, as children investigated their surroundings; expression, as they shared ideas and engaged in imaginative play; belonging, as they collaborated with friends; and well-being, through movement, exploration, and connection with nature.
