We have been creating rivers in our sandpit for some time, and recently we added coloured boats and ten little ducks to extend the play. Tamariki worked mahi tahi, digging channels and moving wet sand, which is heavy and takes real effort. Together, they created an awa through shared planning and teamwork.
Our tuakana showed wonderful rangatira skills, calling out directions such as “You dig there,” “Use the spade or your hands,” and “Good work, the boats are floating.” The sandpit was a buzzing hub of creativity and imagination, filled with ideas, cooperation, and strong tuakana/teina relationships.
It was a joy to watch tamariki problem-solve, take on leadership roles, and use a wide range of oral language. Some children joined in straight away, while others preferred to observe before participating or to work alone or in smaller groups.
It was a wonderful morning in the sandpit, and we look forward to creating more rivers with our new resources. Each experience brings new ideas, and next time our rivers may look different as we explore adding natural materials. Ka pai tō mahi.