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Exploring our new native plants
We recently planted some new native plants in our front garden along with a lemon tree. We brought a select few of our children out to the front garden to discuss this with them. Children are extremely inquisitive, so it is a pleasure being able to have open discussions about such topics, especially around ones where it involves us taking care of them and our environment.
We walked around the garden and took the time to touch and smell all the new life in our front garden. We planted Harakeke, Kowhai, a Cabbage Tree, a Lemon Tree and some Kawa Kawa. We talked about how we can make some Kawa Kawa tea as the weather gets cooler and the children were very excited about this.
Looking after our environment is a key part of Montessori and the children really love doing it. We took advantage of the lovely weather we had on this day, and we used the time to clean up our garden. The children love using scissors inside, so we tend to cut the grass outside as another way to practice cutting. We also have a manual lawnmower that is a big hit with our tamariki.
When using the lawnmower, it involves a lot of grace and courtesy. It ensures the child that is using it, is making sure it is safe to do so. If there is a child in the way, how can we politely ask them to move to the side. Being aware of your surroundings is important, as well as looking after each other.
Before we leave to go inside, we ensure we water our plants so they can continue to grow and flourish. It has been wonderful watching the tamariki take such pride in their environment and share their learning with whānau as they come to collect.