Recently I have been reflecting on how much joy and
engagement happens in our sandpit every day. When I first started my studies in
becoming a qualified early childhood teacher, I would have to go on placements.
In all my placements over the years I always found myself using the sandpit as
a safe place to settle myself into my new surroundings, a space to support me
in making connections with children who I had never met before and getting
involved at their level in their play. I often notice to this day how children
use our sandpit in a similar way, a settling tool, a way to build relationships
with others and a place to indulge in wonderful play experiences.
The sandpit is often a space which is hive of activity, fostering
individual and group play situations. Even in the busiest of times it seems to
be un-chaotic, children deeply engaged in many different games and experiences
but all working cohesively together.
Concepts such as co-construction, negotiation, cooperation,
spatial awareness, sharing and problem solving are brought to the forefront for
children as they utilise all the great qualities the sandpit provides. The
benefits of playing in the sandpit for children is immense. The sandpit is a
great space for social, emotional and language development. While playing in
the sand children use communication skills as they talk about what they are doing
and how to do things. They share equipment and learn to get on with others. The
imaginary and role play that children also engage in provides lots of
opportunities for storytelling and helps them make connections with others who
have similar interests. This is wonderful for supporting them in forming
meaningful relationships with their peers at kindergarten, which in turn will
foster their sense of belonging.
“Sand provides many opportunities and possibilities for mathematical and
science learning as children dig, measure, fill, construct, and compare... Sand
play also gives many opportunities for children to develop the language of
social interaction and negotiation.”
(ECE Educate, Ministry of Education NZ)
(ECE Educate, Ministry of Education NZ)
It is such a rewarding and wonderful part of my job to be
privy to the benefits of such a wonderful resource. The sandpit will always be
a space that is supporting and enhancing our children’s learning and
development and it will also always be a space that I hold dear to my heart.
Till next time,
Zair
1 comment:
Your reflections on the sand pit are rather thought-provoking. Until now, I never took the time to stop and consider such a space as vital tool to introducing children to community. I think back episodes of the Rugrats playing in the sandbox and this notion reminds me children learn at very young age the importance of human connection.
Christie @ Waldorf School of Baltimore
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