inspiration everywhere

The children are pulling things from the studio nature tables to draw and explore.
Rather than rush to name the item, we are exploring it with our senses:

• How does it feel?  
• How does it smell? 
• What shapes do you see?  
• What colors do you see? 

We take the time to simply wonder:

• Where does it come from? 
• What is it? etc.

This is an inquiry based approach to learning, embracing the creative process and active inquiry rather than relying on information passed down from someone in the "know" to someone still exploring, often without the vibrant curiosity of an original encounter.  I find this approach generally teaches me far more about the subject than I "knew" to begin with.

 I am often transported by the children's sense of wonder and deep immersion in the beauty of what's at hand.

Below is a drawing of seed pods, acorns and a caterpillar

Below is a picture of a sunset: "I love a sunset because it spreads so many colors all across the sky". F., age 4.5

Below is a drawing of a cabin, this child's favorite memories of nature are all connected to his family cabin with its two chimneys, barn/garage and all the family moments shared inside and outside its wooden walls.  He drew his cabin while sharing the many joys associated with it.