Naturally Creative

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During the last week of school each year, I set up a variety of stations in the garden for the children to enjoy.  They have the opportunity to engage and explore at their own pace, according to their own preferences.

One of the favorite areas is the art studio where the children experience plein aire painting.  The easels are arranged amidst the beautiful blooming flowers.  Each artist is equipped with a palette which is made from cardboard cut to shape, then sealed with contact paper.  This outdoor painting experience brings out a higher level of creativity, and engages both boys and girls.

Another activity is the matching game using real seashells and a square of upholstery fabric with a shell graphic.

Imaginations turn to the wild side as children pretend to be animals in the garden.

Some students are more interested in exploring organisms that actually live in our garden.  This student discovers that worms tickle your hand.

For those with an inclination toward construction, materials are provided for building fairy houses.  One child approached this task by doing research first.

It was interesting to observe who preferred to work independently, and who worked collectively.

One boy was very determined as he solved the design problem of building a slide into the fairy pool.

The hollow gourd served as the pool, complete with water from the waterfall.  He has a curved piece of bark in one hand, as he reaches for a cube.

Attempting to elevate the slide above the pool.

Project completed.  Do fairies need a lifeguard?