Hi there!
This week has been about acquiring the necessary practical life skills to help children become self-sufficient and functional individuals in the society. In her book, Dr. Maria Montessori, writes about achieving a sense of independence. Read on to find out more!
“The adult must acquire the sensitivity to recognize all the child's needs; only thus can he give the child all the help that is necessary. If we were to establish a principle, it would be that what is necessary is the child's participation in our lives, for in that period in which he must learn to act, he cannot learn well if he does not see how, just as he could not learn language if he were deaf. To extend to the child this hospitality, that is, to allow him to participate in our lives, is difficult, but costs nothing; it depends solely on the emotional preparation of the adult………… Dust cloths ought to be multi-coloured, brushes brightly coloured and soap interestingly shaped. Attractive objects invite the child to touch them and then to learn to use them; he will be attracted to a brightly coloured cloth and learn that it is used to dust tables, or to the brush for his clothes, or to the soap with which he must wash his hands. In this fashion, beautiful things will attract him from every corner and instruct him practically by themselves. Now it is no longer the teacher who says to the child entrusted to her, "Carl, brush yourself off", or, "John, wash your hands". Any child who is self-sufficient, who can tie his shoes, dress or undress himself, reflects in his joy and sense of achievement the image of human dignity, which is derived from a sense of independence.”
Dr. Maria Montessori, The Child in the Family.
At Mulberry Tree, we make sure that our children are taught important life skills no matter what age - these skills include dressing/undressing, being responsible for their own belongings, feeding, preparing their lunch, cleaning up after themselves etc. Here, the Butterfly children are working to get their classroom squeaky clean!
Summertime is the best time to go and investigate ponds as there are many dragonflies hovering above the cool water and rice paddies. We were not disappointed! The trees also provided us with a welcoming shade as the children got to observe the turtles, fish and insects.
Whilst the Butterfly kids got to go to the Lion's Centre in Sai Kung this week, the Caterpillars/Cocoons walked over to Mui Shue Hang (some, for the very first time!) to explore what nature has to offer. We are so proud of our littles ones this week because despite the hot weather, they powered on and persevered! Well done!
Speaking of fieldtrips, ISDIN, a skincare company based in Spain has offered to give our students up to 20% off on all their sunscreen products. Why? Simply because they are impressed with our nature curriculum and weekly field trips. This non-sticky formula is great for Hong Kong's heat and humidity. We've tried it and we love it! Here's the price list for your reference.
Before we sign off, we would also like to remind you that the Nightwalk led by Marnick is scheduled for the 31st (that's this Saturday in case you were wondering!). Don't miss out! To sign up, simply fill out the following google form below:
Register here:
https://forms.gle/orLQNbec7iRxak738
Remarks for the Nightwalk (for more information, check our FB/StoryPark).
Meeting Point: Tai Po Market MTR Station (in front of Starbucks at 16:45) and return at around 20:15 on the 31st of Aug, 2019 (SAT). Transport will be arranged to and from Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve. Remember to wear comfy hiking shoes, long sleeves and trousers. Bring a raincoat, insect repellent and of course, your flashlight or headlight for when the darkness sets in! We will have a small picnic dinner so bring enough drinking water and some food to share between us!
If you have any questions about our Nightwalk, don't hesitate to contact/WhatsApp us on 6460 4177.
Mulberry Tree