A few weeks ago I took my class on a field trip to "Friends of the Rappahanock". They are our local grassroots, conservation organization whose prime mission is to help protect our river, wetlands and environment.
We were blessed with a beautiful day. Our students were treated to a wonderful nature walk along the canal where we saw turtles, birds, and even a little green snake!
On this field trip, my students learned what a wetland is and does for the environment. This particular wetland is right in the middle of our little town, just down the hill from the hospital, and yet to most of our students it was a hidden treat that they did not know about.
Many of our kids come from apartment dwellings where they are latch key kids. Going outside after school to play is not an option. Many of my kid speak of going home and either watching TV or playing video games because their parents are trying to keep them home and safe. I get that..they are working parents who may not be home until 6 or 7 at night. On the flip side, I have students from "middle class" families as well who are so busy every night with sports, church, dance, etc... that they, too, have no time to just "play"
While we were walking I asked my kids, "Have you ever caught a frog?" Astoundingly, most of them said no. Throughout the day, they were fascinated by inchworms (they were everywhere that day!), butterflies and the outdoor air. You could see the stress melting away as they simply enjoyed nature at its best.
We enjoyed the beautiful artwork that was also incorporated into the location. Check out this fish! It has paintings that show areas around our town as well as conservation efforts.
So I leave you with this...during this stressful state testing time...don't forget to get outside and enjoy nature with your kids. You may be the only role model they have for simply relaxing and enjoying the moment.
Comment:
We were blessed with a beautiful day. Our students were treated to a wonderful nature walk along the canal where we saw turtles, birds, and even a little green snake!On this field trip, my students learned what a wetland is and does for the environment. This particular wetland is right in the middle of our little town, just down the hill from the hospital, and yet to most of our students it was a hidden treat that they did not know about.
Many of our kids come from apartment dwellings where they are latch key kids. Going outside after school to play is not an option. Many of my kid speak of going home and either watching TV or playing video games because their parents are trying to keep them home and safe. I get that..they are working parents who may not be home until 6 or 7 at night. On the flip side, I have students from "middle class" families as well who are so busy every night with sports, church, dance, etc... that they, too, have no time to just "play" While we were walking I asked my kids, "Have you ever caught a frog?" Astoundingly, most of them said no. Throughout the day, they were fascinated by inchworms (they were everywhere that day!), butterflies and the outdoor air. You could see the stress melting away as they simply enjoyed nature at its best.
We enjoyed the beautiful artwork that was also incorporated into the location. Check out this fish! It has paintings that show areas around our town as well as conservation efforts.
Another hidden treasure was this rock that was painted and posted next to a beautiful tree. It was put there as a retirement gift for the former director. I was really moved by it because...well, we all love the Lorax. Plus I thought, we could do this at our school too!
So I leave you with this...during this stressful state testing time...don't forget to get outside and enjoy nature with your kids. You may be the only role model they have for simply relaxing and enjoying the moment.
Comment:
Thank you for the wonderful reminder to just enjoy life and nature! Have a great week.
ReplyDeleteJan
Laughter and Consistency