After our delayed start to the semester, this week brought happy reunions and a wonderful return to the forest!
Head:
Running interests and themes this week focused on the trees around us, and composting! Children were invited to explore the parts of a tree. We learned more about the roots, trunk, branches, leaves, and crown of the tree. Most of the trees in the forest are bare now, which led to observations and discussions about the seasonal shifts of the environment.
During the week, we observed a few students digging holes in the ground in hopes of finding worms as they did in the warmer months. When they wondered why they weren’t finding many, we talked about how the colder temperatures affect the forest creatures, both big and small, and their attempts to find warmth. Some of the children then decided to dig a deeper hole, hoping to dig deep enough to find the worms!
We've begun a composting program at AFK! As part of the clean up routine after lunch, each child will empty their leftovers into a compost bucket before placing their Lunchbot into the dirty dishes bin. In the spring, we hope to have good compost to use when planting our garden. Occasionally, the leftovers bucket will head home with Kylie to treat her chickens, who lovingly provide eggs for our lunches. Interconnectedness is an important value at AFK, and we feel this is a meaningful, hands-on way to involve the children in a part of that process.
We have reinstated the invitation for students to join storytime with a snack to begin the day. This week we read “Little Witch Hazel” by Phoebe Wahl and “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost.
Check the library section of the portal for links to a few books on trees and composting we’ve read this week as well as our storytime selections!
Heart:
This week, we welcomed a new student, Howl! We are so happy to bring Howl and his family into the group, and observed so many kind moments between Howl and the other children.
As any change in routine can bring, a few of our friends had a bit of hesitation at drop off early in the week. Such empathy was shown between the children as they helped their friends adjust to school again. During circle time we shared ways to make ourselves feel happier or safer when we are upset. Students took a moment to think about times they were feeling upset and began to brainstorm ways to help their friends who may be having a hard time. We noticed students offering a special stick to hold, an ice pack, water bottles, hugs, and invitations to play. We are so proud of the deep empathy each student has for their classmates, particularly at such young ages.
Hands:
On Tuesday, we set out for a hike! This is always an exciting break in the routine, and offered the opportunity to strengthen the sense of place our students are building in the forest, as well as help Howl to become better acquainted with the environment.
Later in the week, a few child-sized, manual hand tools were introduced. Several children enjoyed practicing drilling holes with a hand drill, and using a level to explore the slants and angles of branches and logs.
Holism:
Julie, who is completing her practicum with us began joining us on Friday! Julie will be with us each Friday, and will serve as our Forest Helper to further her experience in education. The children were immediately drawn to her friendly and gentle spirit, and enjoyed showing her all their favorite corners and nooks of the forest, and especially the climbing skills they’ve gained! We have such warm feelings as our forest kindergarten community continues to grow. Next week, we look forward to welcoming a new student, Caroline and her family!
