In the Rivers class, Indoor Park means that our enormous bin of Duplos comes out. Children are prepared for the big noise that will happen when the entire contents is poured out in the middle of the nest carpet, and then each child begins to play in unique ways.
Some examine the blocks that are nearby and build structures from those.
Some try combining many different shapes and sizes...
while others absorb themselves deeply with a few fascinating pieces.
Some create scenarios in which people interact...
while others gravitate toward animals and vehicles.
In addition to exploring their own working styles, children practice social interactions and solutions. Asking others to pass a block, showing a completed creation to a classmate or teacher, waiting for a turn to use an interesting shape -- all these show developing community building. Working hard on a project only to see it knocked over by another can be frustrating. Apologizing for knocking it over can be difficult. But whether building a structure or strengthening a community, children are expanding their creative collaboration.
