As we are approaching the long weekend, here is a Reggio inspired project you and your child can do together.
No matter where you live, you and your child can explore in your backyard, on your block, in front of your house, at the park, anywhere! Take the time to be present in your surroundings during this ever-changing time. Have your child collect a few things that interest them. Whether that is a rock or two, some leaves, some dirt, a piece of bird feather, anything (parents, check for appropriate things of course)!
After, you and your child can talk about the items. You can ask questions about the items collected.
“Why did you choose this rock?”
“How many leaves did you collect?”
“Are they all the same shape?”
“What’s the difference between…?”
"Can you find where this fell off of?”
etc.
We have to remember- what may pose as simple questions to grown- ups, are thought provoking questions for children to help them use their cognition, imagination, and, developmental milestone skills. Asking children questions is also a good way for them to use their skills and to help them practice explanation.
Finally, ask your child to create a project using the collected items. By using natural materials, it gives children the opportunity to work “outside the box” with non- traditional materials. After they are complete you can also ask them to share about their project.
When relating this project to the Reggio Philosophy, we try to steer away from giving children a specific goal image. We want children to explore their surroundings and how they want to use the materials themselves, not how WE as grown- ups envision it. Let your child create THEIR art, not yours. If you choose to do this project with your child you can talk about the differences in the items you collected, finished product etc.
Have fun with it, but more importantly, have a nice long weekend. Stay safe, stay healthy, stay happy!
xoxo,e