We have the wonderful opportunity to share Thursdays with a group of absolutely fantastic families. I feel so much joy when I watch 17 children between the ages of 2 and 10 play seamlessly together. Part of reason we homeschool is we want our children to spend time with and enjoy people of all ages. To discover how our world works in all its differences.
Other than time and location, our time together is unstructured. We meet all year round - I can't imagine not having summer with our friends. We enjoy meeting at Minnehaha Falls as there is an abundance of space, beauty, areas to explore and it is a wonder to watch as the seasons change. It is truly the perfect classroom. There are times when we are there ALL day. I find it such an opportunity to let play and friendships happen. The connection that our children have with these other children by having unlimited time (ok - maybe not unlimited), sharing discoveries, creating games while not being limited by rules, time, etc is truly a gift to them. One I hold dear to my heart.
The following are a collection of a few of our days together. Social opportunies? Absolutely!
On this glorious day in June, we discovered a very large tree had fallen since the last week. What a gift! The children instantly found their body's centers and practiced their balance. This day, it was a boat and they were all to set said together.
I can't even imagine how things would have been for W if he was in school wearing dresses. It was a long phase and it was as though noone really noticed (except maybe his sister). He really wanted to wear them and we all really wanted what he wanted. We wanted to support him while providing the information about what society might think. Thank you our friends!
Another June Day...
It was so rewarding to see W run down this steep gravel hill over and over again. He wanted to see that he could do it. Faster and Faster. The thrill and confidence on his face was joyful!
Look at this teamwork - not unusual at this gathering. The kids are moving a huge rock as they work on building a little swimming area.
After it was complete, they formed a line (yes, even homeschool children can form a line - even without direction) and took turns jumping into their new pool.
August Rush
There are so many rocks to throw. B could spend most of his day doing this.
My little explorers
I hope when our kids are 15, we are still visiting here weekly!
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