Maria Montessori posed the question: How much fuller and richer life would be if we saw the
child in all his greatness, all her beauty, instead of focusing on all their little mistakes?
This question anchors The Play Lab's child-centered approach. Quiet observation is required to see the magic that is within each tiny body. Stepping back is required to ensure that they have room to be brave, to experiment, and flourish. At the Play Lab, children have the freedom to take the lead, and I facilitate a sovereign environment where they can bring the bounties of their imagination to life.
Nature is defined as anything pertaining to earth, air, land, and human creation, and our crew is going to be sure to experience all of the above! Using the nature as a teacher model as a template, our learning environment flows both inside and out, so that the children have the liberty to experience the flora and fauna all year round. With the vast mental, physical, and cognitive benefits the natural world has, immersing ourselves in it-whether it is interacting with the various house pets and plants indoors, or through the infinite creatures and lush tapestry in our classroom without walls- is an essential part of our daily routine.
Connection is an integral step to feeling seen, heard, and valued. A core value of Kidcrewadventures is cultivating respectful, responsive relationships with each child. This practice extends beyond our learning environment and reaches our crew's grownups, their families and the greater community because it is through modeling respect and receptivity that a fundamental social-emotional skill is scaffolded: How to treat others, and how it is that they should be treated.
Whether it's a family fun, building relationships with neighbors or service people on our route, getting to know the helpers while on our nature walks, or in conjunction with community organizers, Kidcrewadventures is intentional about strengthening the roots we have put down in our village.