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Holistic Development
Its been a busy start to 2021 for everyone and with that in mind we have reflected on things that are important in our lives, what’s important for our children and what’s important to learn.
Young children are very physical learners so the environment and the things in it are equally important as they set the scene for some exciting learning to occur. I have researched the concept of “The Third Teacher” and the third teacher is fundamentally the environment. This was established in the 1940’s by Italian teacher and psychologist Loris Malaguzzi.
I have found the importance of a learning environment can set the tone of each day and direct what we feel it is important to learn about. For example; in PikoPiko room we are now focusing on creating an outdoor environment that is rich in plants, real grass to touch, dirt/mud to move and feel, with teaching children to respect the living creatures and nature around us.
Kaiako develop understandings of how children and their whanau make sense of the world respect and appreciate the natural environment.
Another aspect to the concept of Third Teacher is that the environment should feel welcoming, relaxed, and have a feel of comfort. An effective learning environment will be holistic in nature too. That means it will allow children to learn though being physical, by what they hear, smell, different textures and items and toys which allow for thinking, reasoning, and creativity.
Often early childhood setting are now moving towards a much more homely feel to their furnishings and leaning towards soft natural colours that promote calm spaces for children to be in.
Holistic development Principal 2: “Te Whariki Early childhood curriculum reflects the holistic way children learn and grow.”
Things to try at home:
Fairy lights only on instead of bright overhead bulb.
Limited toys out at one time.
Scented candle, oil diffuser.
Make a bug motel.
Slow down. Take time to enjoy being nature with your children.
Soft Blankets, cushions for cosy places to read.