CANOE Outdoor Classroom

11/12/2024

03/25/2024

Step back... in play the child is capable!

A lot of the time, our help gets in the way of their play.

Problem solving cannot develop when we step in to fix problems for them.

Lengthy attention spans cannot develop when we interrupt with our questions, praise, frequent warnings and entertainment.

Self-confidence and self-motivation cannot develop when we prompt them into being ready when we think they are, instead of when they are.

Self-direction and creativity develop when we stop having ideas for them, such as setting up activities and directing them.

Physical agility and spatial awareness cannot develop when we help them to balance or climb, or put them into positions that are way beyond their own capabilities.

Risk management and working within oneʼs own capabilities are impossible when there are ‘helping hands’ managing them beyond their own capabilities.

Nature Play - take a step back and observe your child at play

02/14/2024

Get your kids involved in the Great Backyard Bird Count next weekend! It can take as little as 15 minutes and is a great way to introduce them to birdwatching.⁠

(edit: you can participate from anywhere in the world!)

You can pick where (even just from your backyard), when (anytime over the 4 days), and for how long (minimum of 15 minutes).⁠

Just count all the birds that you see or hear in the time you've chosen, then record them using a choice of simple apps.⁠ (More information at birdcount.org.)

You don't even need to know how to identify the birds -- it's as simple as listening, looking and counting. But it might just inspire a lifelong interest in your budding ornithologists!

For more ways to get your kids involved in citizen science, see "Citizen Science for Kids: Engaging with Nature While Helping to Save It".
https://getthekidsoutside.com/citizen-science-for-kids/