I found the information in the newsletter controversial in the
notion that standardized playgrounds with approved equipment is dangerous. The argument is there is not enough risk
taking for children. I believe that children benefit through outdoor exploration. I do not view standardized playground as
dangerous to the children growth. A
standardized playground with equipment provides opportunity to explore elements
of nature such as digging and planting seeds, plants, etc... Also the way playgrounds are arranged and its
space contributes more to how much children move around and explore. I believe that art, blocks, literacy, water,
music and types of inside play can be enjoyed by the children outside. We implement our outdoor classroom frequently
on the playground when weather permits and the children freely explore and
create. The children love it! However, in certain demographics hiking and rope
climbing would be difficult and not an option.
The World Forum Foundation is involved in many initiatives to
support early childhood field to deepen professional connections globally
through:
Conversations on teacher education for advocacy and leadership.
Conversations on teacher
education in bicultural and multicultural contexts.
Conversations on teacher education
and relationships.
Conversations on teacher
education and adult learning strategiesConversations on teacher education and curriculum.
Conversations on teacher education and the role of technology in program delivery.
http://worldforumfoundation.org/wf/wp/
A new trend around the globe is extending play beyond the playground
and giving children more access to natural world.
Hi Audrey,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your resources and thoughts. I wish we had more resources for play inside and outside. I believe our children need more time and resources for play even in 1st, 2nd and 3rd grades.
Thanks!
Cindy Rube
Hi Audrey,
ReplyDeleteIn our last class we discussed how the lack of child-centered play is hurting our children. Kids aren't getting good opportunities to play the way they used to. Thanks for sharing this website and how you feel.
Audrey, thanks for expounding on the importance of outdoor play as well as indoor play. I know last year my students discovered a litter of rabbits on the playground, so I took that opportunity to share why the mother rabbit dug a burrow, placed her babies there, and covered them with wood chips. Then after I notified the vet next door, we saw how the vet came in and picked up the baby rabbits. Even the vet explained why his job was important. Then we ended our exploration with thoroughly washing our hands. So, for the kids to experience nature first hand will leave an everlasting impression on them.
ReplyDeleteI have no idea why outdoor play is being put on the back burner! And when it comes to playgrounds and if they are safe or what should or should not be on them I am unsure about that as well. I remember as a child waiting for 12:00 noon so that we could go outuide we did not care what equipement was there just get me outside. We made our own games.
ReplyDelete