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Carpentry with the Explorers
We have begun a big job to create a construction zone in the Explorers (2 year old room). With such a big interest from our tamariki (children) in construction, we found the block corner was still being under-utilised in the room. So together we put our thinking caps on and decided why not do some real construction and create an inviting construction space. This would further enable the tamariki to be involved in building their own areas of learning within the room. The tamariki were fascinated with each tool and piece of wood coming out, eager to be the ones to help. After we sawed the wood to the same lengths, we were able to drill the pieces together, before building a small roof. We haven’t finished yet, but the tamariki sure are enjoying this new space and taking mana (pride) in the fact they made it themselves.
Key learning occuring:
Exploration / Mana aotūroa
- Making sense of their worlds by generating and refining working theories | te rangahau me te mātauranga.
The tamariki learnt how to drill holes and put screws into wood in real life. They learnt the process and techniques needed to attach wood together.
Wānanga:
- Problem solving, I promise there was a lot of this! Many screws needing to go in and out along the way as we discovered how to piece the wood together. Innovation as we designed and built a new space, completely from our own ideas. Let’s not forget communication as tamariki had to listen very carefully and follow instructions for using these tools.