The weather has warmed, the snow has melted and the ground has softened …
The boots, coats and mittens have come off and have been replaced with light coats, sweaters and shoes.
The removal of the winter attire has given the toddlers an opportunity to discover their full capabilities of what their growing minds and bodies can do.
A large group of children all come over to the small logs located by the mulch area of our playground. After several attempts they finally climb to the top of the tallest log smiling saying, "I did it!" as they reached for the sky. They also said, “I’m so tall!” “Tall like Gerri?” Asked the educator. “Yes!” they replied. Another small group formed at the small logs by the side of the sandbox, once again climbing to the tallest log, then reaching for the sky.
The children start off on the low log bending their knees, then jumping to the wood chips below them. They make their way to the next log just slightly higher also jumping to the ground as their confidence level begins build.
With each successful jump, their confidence grows and they continue to climb and jump.
Dania, Brady, Nathan, Julia and Lylah begin to jump over and over.
Risky play such as jumping and climbing is an important way to increase a child's learning and development. This opportunity to climb and jump has all been child initiated. They are engaging in deep play, where they are taking risk and conquering their fears.
When children have chances to take risks they able to work on their emotional and physical development.
Climbing and jumping requires coordination and balance, something they have been practicing and developing as they have grown from toddlers to young preschool aged children. Challenging play such as climbing, balancing and jumping also provides fun and enjoyment.
They are testing their limits and being able to take risks but making the choice to see what their bodies are now capable of doing.
We will continue to offer the children opportunities for new and emerging skill development in the months to come. Perhaps a trip to the forest will allow the toddlers to discover new surfaces and materials for risk taking and continuing to develop these skills.
