It is the beginning of the new school year, a time when we welcome some new friends and reacquainted with old ones. As the children are trying to get to know each other by building new relationships and friendships we are also trying to get acquainted with our program and routines. As part of our program, we practiced safe risk taking, we tried to incorporate this by using a saw to cut cardboard tubes to make some maracas. First, the children were reminded about the safety rules when using a saw. When we started James volunteered to help cut the tubes. As he started, he said, “I have used a saw before but I have to use it slow then I am able to cut better.” With some slow strokes he was able to finish cutting one piece of the tube. Then he commented, “The small saw is easier to use because the tube is very small.” Eliza then walked over and asked to have a turn, as she was holding the saw, she asked, “Do I need to use both hands or one hand to hold the saw?” so she was reminded that she can use both hands if she wanted to and somebody can help her hold the tube. She agreed to that, and was able to finish cutting her piece with a bit of help. Charlotte wanted a turn but was hesitant but with a bit of encouragement and help she was able to cut her piece successfully. Wesley and Zoe also had a turn. We got all the pieces cut and were ready to make our maracas. The children glues pieces of paper on one end of the tube and then filled some rice into them before closing the other end. As the other children continued to make their maracas, Aubrey came along and wanted to make one also, she chose her tube and glue a piece of paper on both sides of the tube, then she tried to shake it. She looked very puzzled and was wondering what was going on with her maracas because it wasn’t making any sound like Charlotte’s. Then Aria commented, “Oops Aubrey you didn’t put any rice in your maracas.” So, with some help she was able to open one end of the tube and then poured some rice into it. Then, with a great big smile she started to shake her maracas. While Aria was making her maracas her mom came in and asked, “What are you making?” Charlotte answered, “We are making Morocco, I think that is the name the shaker thing.” Then Adelaide replied, “It is a maracas you silly.” The children finished their maracas and had a great time shaking them.
During this activity the children were able to practice risk taking and foster turn taking. They were also able to working independently and make choices. They also develop their sense of hearing. They listened and followed instructions carefully.
