Books can be found everywhere in NSW. We have a large library of children’s books, bookshelves in the classroom, baskets of books in both classrooms, and even a basket in the Middle Courtyard to greet families as they transition into their school day. We strongly believe in the power that books and storytelling have to support current events that children may be processing.
In our morning meeting, Adriana read Little Bear’s Little Boat by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter. In the story, a little bear enjoys spending time in his little boat on the lake. He rows it, fishes in it, and day-dreams in it daily. Then, something happens! The little bear becomes a BIG bear and he no longer fits in his little boat.
The children’s faces as they listen speak volumes to the emotions they are experiencing as the story is told.
greyson flood donation from NSW Documentation on Vimeo.
Kayden recognized the power of the story and depth of the conversation it brought out. Reflection meetings are held to review children’s ideas and gather more input and Kayden has spoken about the classroom culture practiced daily.
Not only did the book provide an opportunity for the children to process the ways in which they have grown, it also provided an opportunity for them to process some of their feelings surrounding the natural disasters they hear about in the news and the ways in which they are able to support others in times of need. – Jessica & Kristin