Reflection.
It’s been about a day since we wrapped up our first holiday programme this June (we have a second one coming end of the month!). Reflecting back on the children’s learning journey, our own learning journeys, it’s truly amazing how stepping out of the norm, out of the typical comfort zones, and pushing unspoken boundaries made us listen more closely to the heart of a child.
Navigating rocky, moss-filled surfaces, exploring unknown environments (mudflat anyone?), swimming in the open sea - these are some things that our young children these days rarely get a chance to experience. Not just them, look at ourselves! The sheer wonder and amazement we see in their eyes while trying something new is what we want to see more often. The aha! moments as they connect concepts and achieve their own goals, no matter how small it may seem, is truly a remarkable sight. They are willing to learn, willing to try, willing to grow.
Exploring a mudflat during low tide. At the same time, helping to collect trash.
We didn’t have a set “theme” that we wanted to “teach” the children, but as per our Roots and Boots approach, allowed them to set the direction for the programme. It was evident on the first day that they were concerned for the environment, the litter in parks and along the coastline. It unfolded so organically and truly brought meaning to the programme, emphasising to us the importance of child-led, inquiry-based learning and exploration. Nothing felt rushed or forced upon (well, maybe only the “time to head back” as we only had 4 hours!), and we could’ve explored the outdoors for a much longer time. It was an unforgettable experience!
We shared some learning points on social media (Instagram @rootsandbootspteltd; FaceBook “Roots and Boots Pte Ltd”) that really stood out to us. Coming from the children, they reminded us of important values like resilience, open-mindedness, and empathy. Values that must be harnessed and cultivated.
Our children are the future. What kind of future do you envision? What would you want them to be like?