Our final camping trip of the season began with glorious weather and the children were able to spend hours playing together in the park as well as showing their expertise in pitching tents and cooking meals. The rain on the second day did not dampen anyone’s spirits as the children are so used to wet weather and come prepared with appropriate clothing so that they continued to enjoy being outside.
The children’s camping skills have developed tremendously and it is hugely evident in the the children who have now come out on their fourth overnight trip. Putting up tents has become much easier and the children are so much more confident in using the cooking stoves to prepare hot meals. It was marvelous for the teachers to observe the many wonderful things that are happening for the children during their outdoor play experiences in the park. Revisiting the same space each time provides the opportuntity for the children to feel confident in the surroundings and to be able to take risks. On each visit the children have found a new area of the park to explore and develop games in. Tremendous opportunities for cooperating, sharing, and problem-solving occur outdoors. Children’s imaginations take hold and their spirits soar. They observe nature and ask questions that help them understand themselves and the world. Through being outdoors the mind, body, and spirit are united.
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