A listener question about big block play gets us deep into a discussion about navigating power dynamics. The scale of big block play, along with the relative scarcity of the material in the classroom, seems to create some universal patterns. We want children to feel strong, confident and powerful as they create with large blocks, but this means we also need to be ready to help navigate children's struggles about how to manage this sense of power. Do we find ourselves avoiding the challenge of it? Are we making moral judgements about the children who find power in big block play?

TWBIM_0264 Big Blocks, Big Power

Each week, Mike, Tom, Ross, and Joey reflect on the connection between moving and thinking. The discussions remind us that teachers should be supporting children's bodies as well as their minds.

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Joey wants to talk about the idea of emotional strength. How do we support children in building inner strength without making assumptions about what they can handle? Mike reminds us that stress--in the right amount--supports growth. Tom shares the experiences of listening to children and being an advocate for their feelings. We need to watch out for accidentally giving the message that being "strong" means you don't feel sadness. Ross advocates for expanding children's (and everyone's) emotional vocabulary. Perhaps we would do better to use the term capable instead of strong?

TWTBIM_0289 Inner Strength

What is lost when adults let children win at all the games? Ross worries that it gives children the false sense that they can never lose. How do you keep games fun when the skill set is mismatched?... Do kids know what is happening when adults let them win?... Letting children win can be a form of power reversal play... It can be disrespectful when adults check out of the play and let children win... There is a level of challenge needed to make a game fun, motiviating, and to increase your skill level... Handicapping requires adults to tune in to children's skills... What are the other "wins" a child can feel in their life?... We aren't the best at everything, but how do I belong here?      

TWTBIM_0288 Who Wins?

Monkey piles, piggy piles, "pile on"--Tom has noticed that children often pile up together. This physical play provides close contact and a little unpredictability. What other needs are met in piling up?

TWTBIM_0287 Piles and piles

The conversation about environment wasn't quite finished. Joey, Mike and Tom continue to work their way through the jargon in search of more practical and meaningful language. 

TWTBIM_0286 Environment (continued)

Mike invites us to unpack the term environment as it is used in the field of early childhood. Does emphasis on "creating the environment" overlook the fact that you are in a specific place that already exists? Does it take into account the children and people who inhabit the space? How can we avoid fighting against the place we are in?

TWBIM_0264 Big Blocks, Big Power

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