The Colorado sun has been hiding from us for the last two weeks keeping the temperature low and the toddlers inside. Being in a classroom with a group of busy, curious, and growing toddlers all day presents new learning experiences. Although our classroom is dynamic, the space and materials are ultimately limited, leading to an increased need for communication, patience, and resilience.
How do we, as adults, facilitate these conversations between toddlers? How do we create a space that allows for less “conflict” and more solutions? It starts with viewing the children as capable and competent and knowing as adults that we don’t need to solve their problems for them. We “sportscast” so the children understand the situation in front of them and use the tools they built during their time at Blue Leaf to communicate how they’re feeling. It is through this that the children learn to advocate for themselves.
Big-body play has been of great interest, as outdoor play usually fulfills this need. We have a large cushion, which we lovingly call the chunk or donut, with many parts that allow for versatility in how it’s used. They enjoy climbing on, jumping off, and sliding down. This is a popular space, and children want to use it with different ideas in mind.
We’ve heard them say:
I don’t like being squished!
excuse me
my turn
Play with me!?
I go around
Stop!
No!
I’m not done with that
There’s room right there
Hug?
Watch out
I want to get in there!
I need space
There’s no room!
Advocating for your needs and also understanding the needs of others is a pivotal part of toddlerhood. How we treat their conflicts as adults affects how they approach challenges as they continue to learn and grow. Giving children the language while we sit beside them helps them to be able to use their words when there isn’t an adult around.
