Tom's been observing how children forge social connections through large motor play. Whether filling buckets with sand, negotiating space in big empty boxes or taking on roles in pretend play, children learn social skills by using their bodies. 

TWTBIM_0281 It's All Social

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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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?

TWTBIM_0285 The Environment is Not a Blank Canvas

How can we give children chances to explore space (and the feeling of having a lot of it)? Spending time outdoors is one of the best ways. Inside, perhaps children can experience a feeling of being in a separate space under a table. Spending time alone in an empty classroom can also tap into an expansive feeling. As Tom sums it up, it is an awesome experience "exist in the expanse."

TWTBIM_0281 It's All Social

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