Communication & Literacy |
Play experiences in natural environments offer children a unique opportunity to work and play together removed from the distraction of toys, media and more formal “activities”. Children are encouraged to use their imaginations, communicate their ideas, negotiate, develop their thinking and oral language skills, tell and listen to stories. Natural materials offer the children a variety of new ways to explore and express themselves including; drawing with sticks and rocks, weaving, threading and constructing and using mud for sculpting, cooking and creating.
Opportunities for Language Development afforded in nature: · Negotiating, problem solving and sharing of ideas during play · Story telling, singing, chants and rhymes shared throughout the day · Development of skills for sharing ideas, feelings and understandings using language and representation in play · Development of vocabulary through inquiry and exploration Opportunities for Literacy Development afforded in nature: · Natural materials can be used as the inspiration or props for a wide range of imaginative play and story telling: development of oral language and an awareness of elements of stories such as characters and beginning, middle and end. · Drawing, mark making and writing in the dirt using sticks · Pattern making using natural materials such as sticks, rocks and leaves · Development of story writing, use of symbols and writing in reflective journals and learning experiences based on experiences in nature |