Colours Emerging Everywhere!

Every morning our students begin their day with Daily Physical Activity (Aerobics or Dance) followed by a class meeting.  Before the educators share documentation, we always invite our students to share the important things or events that are relevant to their lives.  Although we encourage personal experiences, books, drawings, and writing, we also welcome their treasured belongings which often include their favourite toys.

This past week a few students brought in items that emerged into great learning opportunities for our colour inquiry.

One student brought in a panda (R.J.) and we were able to begin discussions on animals and camouflaging.  The panda so perfectly camouflaged into her dress.  We also loved how the dress had dots and were able to also make some connections to our dot project.

A few students began to bring in items pertaining to a holiday that their families celebrate: Christmas.  One boy (D.B.) brought in a drawing he had made of Santa Clause, while two other girls (L.N. and H.W.) brought in their Santa Clause dolls.  We took this opportunity to engage them with some sensory motor activities within our sensory tub by placing a variety of loose parts with different textures for them to touch.    The students began to use this space to tell stories and dramatize them using the "Colours of Christmas" offered by the educators.

Rather than ask students to put their special items into their backpacks and dismiss their important ideas, we honour them by placing them somewhere within our classroom that links with our learning.  

I believe that there is always space for everyone's story, if we are flexible and are willing to see the possibilities for further investigation!

Parents, if your child has not brought anything to share during our morning meetings we encourage them to try to do so soon!  We would love to hear more about other special celebrations that our students participate in.