Living with the Earth: An Outside Interactive Acclimatizing Workshop

When studying nature and its wonders, children need to be the explorers, the innovators, and the teachers. The adult assumes the role of a facilitator, an observer, and a mediator. If the adult in a given situation is simultaneously and genuinely exploring the area (not just observing children acting upon it), then a bridge may be started to the children's involvement--involvement often being contagious. This paper describes a workshop in which activities stress a wonderment and reverence for life and nature. Participants are encouraged to be keenly aware of children's interests, concerns, and development so that they can "start where the learner is" to create learning situations as rich and exciting as life itself. Using the dandelion as an example, the paper shows how to create a remarkable experience for children by making a "grand performance" out of the discussion. Detailed instructions describe how to create a "nature journal" out of chipboard, muslin and liquid starch, and then use natural inks and quills to paint pictures or record feelings and reflections in the journal throughout the year. (Author/TSP)