Wind

Wind is a rather abstract thing to discuss and work with children on.
But the easiest way to talk about it is through blowing bubbles and lightly blowing in each others faces.
By week 5 in the project research I knew that it was better to start in a circle time, explore the topic and talk about what we were going to make and do.
We made little paper and straw windmills. It had mixed success as the pins were not long enough and for children age 3 - 4 and a half the precision cutting was tricky. But out we went to the play area with out windmills and soapy bubble mix.

I made this! wind exploration #betterspace

Earth

Well really for small children that should read MUCK! Said in a very particular way so that you swing out of the M and K.
Gravity - the difference between stamping and waving your feet in the air. Jumping and standing. Don't get to intellectual about it just get the kids to notice what they feel. That's enough for them to be aware there is a difference and a pull of their feet to the ground.
In keeping with the fact that we will be developing a small garden during this project I thought what better way to introduce the idea then a flower pot of muck. So in the morning I went digging muck and worm hunting.
Worms are great for small kids. Muck is great to. Get them to smell it, look at it.
I introduced the plate of muck by saying I had brought some timid visitors who were hiding. I asked would they like to meet them? I'm always concious when working with children that someone will have a sensory issue or reaction to the piece of work I am offering to them or indeed me so I take it really slowly. Keep it simple - thats what I worked with this week.
Nearly all of the children wanted to hold the worm, they listened really well and passed the worm gently from palm to palm, really respecting these wriggly friends. We spoke about what loved to eat worms - birds. Someone asked what worms ate? Muck. In the morning I worked in three rooms and in the afternoon the toddler and after school group. Really enjoyed meeting some of the team drop in group too.
Who would have thought that a plate of muck and worms could be so exciting!