Children who have not been in school before have probably never been asked to walk in a line. Gathering everyone together to form a line can be a challenge at the start of the year.
But the discovery of a treasure map gives us an opportunity, in small groups, to travel about and practice following just behind the friend in front of you. Walking in a line is a hard skill to master and involves being aware of your body in space and walking just the right speed so no one gets bumped.
Our dramatic play and practice is rewarded with an actual box of delightful treasures.
But the discovery of a treasure map gives us an opportunity, in small groups, to travel about and practice following just behind the friend in front of you. Walking in a line is a hard skill to master and involves being aware of your body in space and walking just the right speed so no one gets bumped.
Dramatic play of this sort gives children a moment to focus on hearing the important instructions about walking up and down the steps.
For instance, they hear that it works best to use only one hand to hold on. Or that one should stay on the righthand side and wait for the person in front to step off a step before stepping down onto it.
As the days passed, the treasure was hidden further afield requiring a visit to the gym and the third floor.
Our dramatic play and practice is rewarded with an actual box of delightful treasures.
Climbing stairs helps to build balance and core muscle strength. A strong core will help a child to sit still to listen and participate in group activities at school.
So look for an excuse to go on an adventure like Ms Postema does in drama. Send children on extra errands upstairs and downstairs if you have a staircase in your home. If you live in an apartment building, use the stairs instead of the elevator as much as possible. Climb up to explore another floor in the building, maybe even have a treasure hunt or other adventure of your own.
So look for an excuse to go on an adventure like Ms Postema does in drama. Send children on extra errands upstairs and downstairs if you have a staircase in your home. If you live in an apartment building, use the stairs instead of the elevator as much as possible. Climb up to explore another floor in the building, maybe even have a treasure hunt or other adventure of your own.
