When we think about painting with liquid paint, our thoughts normally go into paint brush, water, a palette with colors we need to create what we are about to paint.
Now let's imagine this, we are given lots of paint but no paint brush? Along with it, a big white canvas. And we are told, "Paint whatever you want!"
What will we do?
A similar situation happened at our Cubs' class today. Our 4 to 5 year olds were invited to paint today with a twist: dip only the palms and SPLASH!!!!!
And the result? A melody of droplets in a medley of colours (below).
Now let's imagine this, we are given lots of paint but no paint brush? Along with it, a big white canvas. And we are told, "Paint whatever you want!"
What will we do?
A similar situation happened at our Cubs' class today. Our 4 to 5 year olds were invited to paint today with a twist: dip only the palms and SPLASH!!!!!
And the result? A melody of droplets in a medley of colours (below).
ITP (Invitation To Play) at SM is the first few minutes of the beginning of their day where children are invited to simply let go and play!
From giving a specific set of materials to lots of different kinds of materials, to sometimes no materials, children are given the space to explore from ranges of semi- to unstructured play.
ITP, for facilitators, is also the time when they get to see so much more about their children than what they can see such as, how do they work together, how independently can someone play, what all happens in their imagination, what emotion are they carrying, and so much more.
Play being an important component in the development of young children (especially), in Reggio Emilia learning philosophy itself, the value of play is immeasurable indeed and ITPs are a space of celebration here at Sparkling Mindz!
On this particular day, this first 15 minutes of the starting of their day not only uplifted their spirits, bringing in joy, love, excitement, wonder, and more, but also developing a sense of camaraderie and collaboration between each other too, as there were just 5 bowls full of paint, and 12 children. And in this particular Cubs' classroom today, there were lots of laughter, wonder, awe, 'what else can I create', 'what does this look like', to a loooooooot more of 'Oh WOW, look at these colors!'
And merrily they went looking forward to begin day in unison, to learn and grow together.
Is play only for children though? When was the last time you simply...played? Do let us know in the comments below.
Contributed by Sruthy Krishna, Learning Facilitator, Sparkling Mindz Global School & Preschool.
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