Despite being a shortened week due to wind conditions, we had a wonderful three days together!

On Tuesday, we observed such peaceful resolution of conflict between students. We have noticed the children asking for needs rather than immediately getting upset about an interaction or way that a friend is playing. This communication between the students shows such social-emotional growth in the group!

The teachers have also noticed that “everyone plays with everyone”. Groups of students who weren’t playing with others at the beginning of the year seem to be opening up to playing with other students.

A photography invitation has been offered to students this week! Students will be given a camera to take photos of things and people around the forested playsite. We’ll print the photos and offer different mediums (needle and thread, clay, paint, etc…) to recreate a photo of the student’s choice to further tell the story of a day in the forest at AFK.

Spotlight on morning circle!

We’d love to give you a glimpse into what is discussed during a typical morning circle. After gathering together and sitting in a circle, we may discuss:

• What is the weather?

• What are you wearing to prepare for the weather?

• Who are your grownups at AFK today?

• Does anyone have any news to share today?

  • This Tuesday, Orora shared about seeing the moon. Other kids shared and expanded on the topic, talking about Jupiter, and other space themes.

Lunch on Tuesday was quinoa, red kidney beans, Collective Harvest salad greens with poppyseed dressing, kraut, roasted butternut squash, yogurt, and “sprinkles”!

Thank you to Eva and Jung Ho for helping us in the forest!

On Wednesday, the students began rebuilding the shelter that was deconstructed on Tuesday. This is quite a task, as many of the sticks are heavy and the construction requires lots of teamwork and communication!

We spotted a shiny birthday balloon in the forest, which prompted a talk about litter, caring for our environment, and a “litter walk” to be sure no other pieces of trash were floating around the forest!

Have your children ever wondered what happens to all that compost we collect? Oftentimes, it ends up feeding chickens! Here’s is a photo of Kylie’s chickens enjoying all our yummy leftovers!

Thank you Joni for being our forest helper Wednesday!

A sneak-peak of Kylie’s chickens turning students’ leftovers into eggs!

On Thursday, we had a day at the visitor center due to a wind advisory. We were able to spend most of the morning outside, tending the fall garden and playing with silks in the windy field. The park staff were so kind to make a huge leaf pile for us as they were leaf blowing this morning! We harvested a handful of radishes which we shared at lunchtime! Once indoors, the children enjoyed visiting “stations” of activities. Puzzles, games, art supplies, and dress up clothes are all brought out during rare days we need to be indoors. Thank you to Graham for being a fantastic lunch helper on Thursday!

We’re wishing you all a cozy weekend, and we’ll see you next week!