Both our north and south Playscape classrooms offer outdoor spaces where children can explore during our sessions, and it's been a joy to see more and more families taking advantage of these opportunities! Caregivers and little ones alike are beaming with happiness as they engage in play and interaction – whether it's in the sandbox or perched on the boulder up north!

With the weekend forecast promising warmer weather, we're all looking forward to embracing the outdoors – whether it's in our yard, the woods, or at the beach. Children have such a knack for noticing the little things, like the flowers starting to bloom, the buds on the bushes and trees, the cheerful melodies of birds, and the playful sounds of frogs welcoming the arrival of Spring.

These simple moments of observation invite us to slow down and appreciate the magic that surrounds us. In a world that's constantly bustling with excitement and distractions, it's a precious gift to pause and marvel at the wonders of nature. Consider kneeling down beside your child as they watch a beetle making its way across the ground, or witnessing the vibrant hues of a flower bud unfolding. What do you notice? What do you hear? What do you feel?

These moments offer a beautiful opportunity to connect – with your child, with nature, with beauty. They're like nourishment for the soul, enriching your relationship with your child and their connection to the world around them.

Play & Learn at Home
Here are some things you can do at home:
-  Find a spot either in your house or outside where the sun shines strong during some part of the day.  Notice the shadows.  Stop and look.  Highlight this for your child.  Go back again to the same spot on another day.

- Grab a blanket and head outside. Sit down with your child and take in your surroundings together. If it feels challenging to focus at first, try tuning into your senses. Encourage your child to do the same – they may notice something entirely unique. Embrace the opportunity to explore the world around you through their eyes.

-  If nature isn’t easy to get to, or not comfortable for you, find a place in your home where you can be either down on your child’s level or in close proximity.  Maybe pull out one simple material that you can participate in with your child. A simple singular segment of time where you are present in slowed down time (even 10 minutes!)

- Find a tub and fill it with warm soothing water.  First dip your hands and talk about it.  Add one object and talk about it (how it feels, what’s happening, what do you see? What do you hear, what do you smell, what kind of motion is happening?). Add another object.  Just notice what’s happening.  * There’s another great use for a turkey baster!  Add it to a tub of water with a child and lots of fun discoveries are made.



Resources we love:

Slowing Down with Young Children
https://montessoriparenting.org/the-importance-of-slowing-down-with-young-children/

Slowing Down
https://www.naeyc.org/resources/blog/slowing-down

Slow Down So You Can Hear
https://www.peacefulparenthappykids.com/read/slow-down-so-you-can-hear

5 Way to Build Wellbeing in Children
https://www.firstfiveyears.org.au/child-development/5-ways-to-build-wellbeing-in-children