Projects help children engage with the world around them through guided, in-depth studies of real world topics. We recently captured a project at our Glenhaven Centre and we’re thrilled to share this video with you.
The Space Investigation Project was created to enrich the children’s understanding and knowledge of space, but it began one lunch time when the children noticed the presence of the moon during the day. This curiosity led to many questions and the enthusiasm for researching the moon began. Our rooms were home to many exciting objects and models.
The children were fascinated to learn about the sun, moon phases, the solar system, stars and astronauts.
The children gathered fascinating facts about the planets, the role of the Sun and features of the moon. The discussion covered star-gazing and determining constellations at home with parents.
The children participated in various experiments such as:
- a balloon rocket launch
- day and night explanations with models
- melting rocks
- earth layers and composition
- and video of a volcanic eruption helped the children visualise their learnings
Not long after the children were eager to build on their understanding of space travel and astronauts. The Educators discussed an astronaut’s duties, equipment, attire and travel vessel. The children and Educators were inspired to collaborate and build their very own space rocket and space station. Much to the children and Educators joy the space rocket carried out many pretend launches to the moon, stars and other planets.
Hands on learning experiences allow children to directly observe and understand the outcome of experiments. This kinaesthetic teaching approach helps children understand what they have not directly seen. It also encourages children to participate by doing things for themselves which will help them with resourcing their own learning independently. This has been demonstrated by their involvement in the experiments and the art work.
If you’d like to read more about projects at Kindalin, please visit our Projects page.