In the Exploration Room, the children have been testing different strategies to move clay using rope. The teachers observed them dragging, knocking and lifting blocks of clay and discussed the possibility of collaborating with parents to create a context for the children to explore different types of motion. When Brian (WW Van) and Nick (WW Amalia) discovered this, they volunteered their knowledge, time and resources to design, build and install a safe rig onto which we could attach pulleys.
By introducing this piece into the environment, the children have been able to extend their exploration of movement and wanted to express their gratitude to Brian, Jake (Brian’s handyman) and Nick, as well as inform them of how the space is being used.
Palmer: Thank you for coming and building!
Clarke: Thank you for helping!
Teacher Susan: How have we been using the pulleys? What do we do with them?
Jillian: You pull the rope.
Luke: And we lift things up.
Reflecting back on this experience, it is evident that our parents understand and value the importance of collaborating with us and each other in order to provide an environment where children can deepen their learning. Additionally, it shows the children how the teachers collaborate with them and how we work with parents who also support their growth. It also makes visible the parents’ participation at our school and how this enriches our community by strengthening the bonds of the protagonists: Teachers, parents, children, and the environment. -Teacher Susan