This month, the children began exploring Remembrance Day by creating their own poppies using red and black paint. We looked at pictures of poppies for inspiration, and each child made theirs in a unique way, all so beautiful. We also took photos of the children’s hands for our final project, which has been added to our classroom door. This created the image of the children holding the poppy in the palm of their hands in respect for those who fought in the war.
Continuing our discussion, Educator Amanda invited the children to talk about what peace means to them. To some preschool children peace meant doing yoga, or taking a deep breath. Then we had Rowan share, “Peace is starting over,” which resonated with everyone as we reflected on how we feel when we build a tower and it falls; starting over is always exciting! Then, Liam said, “Peace is Daddy who makes me feel calm” reflecting on what brings him peace at home. This allowed us to feel a sense of belonging as we reflected on how we feel and have felt in calming situations.
The next day, we revisited the topic. Caiden recalled, “We remember the people who died,” and Parker remembered “the flower is called a poppy, it’s red and black.” Outside, the children extended their learning by making poppies with playdough and loose parts. They shaped, moulded, and decorated their flowers thoughtfully. Samuel proudly shared, “I made it for Mom and Dad,” while Rowan added green pipe cleaners for leaves.
Through these experiences, the children expressed creativity, strengthened fine motor skills, and deepened their understanding of remembrance and peace. Finally, Amanda created poppies with the children in a new way, with coffee filters, coloured water, and water droppers. The filters soaked up the colour as it absorbed in the paper. On November 11th, we gathered around and held a moment of silence holding our poppies made out of coffee filters. We felt proud to take part in such an important moment as we remembered.
