The center where I do the practicum has “nature-based play” as its philosophy. Their yard is filled with plants, as I noted. As a component of the natural world, plants may spark children’s interest, help them become more adept observers, and facilitate their development of a relationship with the natural world through engagement and observation. For children, the topic of plants is not only conducive to the development of their perceptual skills but also helps them understand the growth cycle and life processes in nature through hands-on practice. Furthermore, a topic of plants can address a variety of developmental needs, including the full spectrum of growth in social, emotional, physical, and cognitive abilities. As a practicum student, I will utilize the following teaching methods to promote children’s exploration of plants according to the BC Early Learning Framework (2019) and nature-based education philosophy.
To begin with, the topic of plants itself is highly suited to the experiential learning approach, which encourages children to learn and understand through practical encounters (BC ELF, P. 24). To help children develop a relationship with nature, I’ll set up outside activities where they can see and interact with real plants. Children can improve their language abilities as well as pay closer attention to and comprehend the natural world’s life cycle by observing and talking about the growth and changes of plants, as well as their seasonal traits and discoveries. Through touch with plants, children can explore several senses—from feeling various foliage and seeing color changes to smelling the aroma of flowers. We can even grow little plants so that children can observe firsthand how they develop and change. For instance, we can cultivate beans together. Planting and caring for plants requires fine motor movements with hand-eye coordination, which helps to improve children’s hands-on skills and concentration. In the process of caring for and observing plants together, children can learn cooperation, sharing, and responsibility, thus building good peer relationships. In addition, children learn about patience and time management by having to wait for the plants to grow. When the plants grow as a result of their efforts, they will also learn the importance of patience and persistence, which is a crucial experience for their socioemotional development.
Second, I will respect children’s interests and developmental needs through child-centered guidance. In order to determine the children’s areas of interest related to the plant topic, I will watch and listen to their responses before modifying the activities’ content (BC ELF, P. 18). For instance, if children are fascinated by the many colors of plants, I can create some art or craft activities that revolve around plant colors, allowing them to explore deeper into their topic of interest. This increases the autonomy of each child by allowing them to investigate plants at their own pace.
Furthermore, the foundation of young children’s learning is play (BC ELF, p. 26). The growth process of plants mixed with play and creativity can develop children’s imaginations. By exploring the different forms, colors, and textures of plants, children can be creative in art activities such as collages or crafts using leaves and flowers. This allows children to express themselves more artistically and enhances their enthusiasm for learning on their own by exploring freely.
Lastly, I will evaluate the children’s learning progress during the semester by having them observe and reflect on their experiences with plant exploration activities. As a trainee student, I will regularly record each child’s response and engagement with the plants and modify the difficulty and content of the activities according to their development. I will work with the children to reflect on their findings, encourage and guide them to express their feelings and observations, and help them to develop expressive and independent thinking skills.
I will use my pedagogy to give children access to a rich, natural setting where they can investigate and learn about the plants. Through games, hands-on manipulation, collaboration, and observation, children will gain a greater understanding of the plant while developing their natural awareness, practical abilities, and collaboration. As well as support their overall growth in all spheres of life, including emotional, social, and cognitive development.