All week they anticipated the snow. They may have had no idea it was coming but they anticipated it nonetheless. It seemed unnatural to them that it was warm in the beginning of January; it seemed unnatural to them that they were sweating after recess.
When it finally did snow the kids of Room 202 celebrated with a voracious appetite for play. They understood that our school work came first and they dedicated themselves to that prospect. During the week they worked hard; they remained focused.
Working in groups, for the many subjects we learn about, lends itself well to the winter months. It keeps the children active in the classroom and engaged in the content. It provides enough structure to foster comfort as well as independence. It helps the time go by more quickly and results in more learning; simply for the fact that they are actually doing something rather than being sedentary.
When the time comes for a break and we head outside they transfer the group atmosphere to the playground. They share, take turns, and play with a variety of children. Of course, the time on the playground also passes too quickly for their liking...they do, however, understand that there will be more of the same to come.
Play is such an important part of learning and growing. It allows students to explore their personalities, expand on their strengths, and gain a place among their peers. It provides them with life lessons that allow them to internally reflect. From there they can apply what they know to decide who and what they want to be in relation to what's happening around them.
Kids know that they need play. The yearn for it. During the week they somehow knew that snow was coming, it was "in the air" so to speak. Thank goodness it did come...I don't know how much longer they could have contained themselves!
When it finally did snow the kids of Room 202 celebrated with a voracious appetite for play. They understood that our school work came first and they dedicated themselves to that prospect. During the week they worked hard; they remained focused.
Working in groups, for the many subjects we learn about, lends itself well to the winter months. It keeps the children active in the classroom and engaged in the content. It provides enough structure to foster comfort as well as independence. It helps the time go by more quickly and results in more learning; simply for the fact that they are actually doing something rather than being sedentary.
When the time comes for a break and we head outside they transfer the group atmosphere to the playground. They share, take turns, and play with a variety of children. Of course, the time on the playground also passes too quickly for their liking...they do, however, understand that there will be more of the same to come.
Play is such an important part of learning and growing. It allows students to explore their personalities, expand on their strengths, and gain a place among their peers. It provides them with life lessons that allow them to internally reflect. From there they can apply what they know to decide who and what they want to be in relation to what's happening around them.
Kids know that they need play. The yearn for it. During the week they somehow knew that snow was coming, it was "in the air" so to speak. Thank goodness it did come...I don't know how much longer they could have contained themselves!
Mr. Casten
Jan. 13, 2012
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