I recently received the newsletter from the Milwaukee LifeWays Early Childhood Center and was so impressed with the articles written by their caregivers that I asked permission to share them with you. One of the topics we consider in the LifeWays training is "Three Rs of Early Childhood: Rhythm, Repetition and Reverence." In this third article, Abbey writes a bit about repetition. --Cynthia
Happenings in Abbey Suite
By Abbey Weimer
Caregiver, Milwaukee LifeWays Early Childhood Center
We all know that Wisconsin’s weather is unpredictable. However, at LifeWays, we know how important it is for children to have outside playtime. It serves not only to explore and expand, but also to stretch and work our muscles. The children have enjoyed being outside [all year], ranging from mild days to puddle jumping, from freezing rain to snowy days. It’s all quite amazing!
Eli and Maddy [older children in the mixed-age group] very much enjoy Forest Kindergarten. Each Tuesday and Thursday, the boys venture out with Ms. Barian (or sometimes Ms. Sondra) to explore in the Forest for the morning. Their return is much awaited by the younger children and me. Eli and Maddy always have something exciting to tell us, with pockets full of pinecones, eyes wide and cheeks rosy...what a blessing childhood is!
Freddy, Levi, Anna and Addy are tuning their fine-motor skills, as they learn how to get dressed for outside. Once the outside clothes are on, the children conquer icy hills and fallen trees in the clearing. We are very fortunate to have the outdoor space, encountering many wonders daily.
Indoors, we have been sticking to our weekly and daily rhythms, with a few surprises here and there. Both weekly and daily, we are learning there is a time and a place for all things. If a certain event is repeated enough around and with the child, the child takes it in and gets to know it deeply. Through observation and trial and error, I have created a schedule that benefits both the children and me. Throughout the week we are cleaning, washing and chopping vegetables for lunch, having a puppet play, doing arts and crafts, singing, baking and watering our plants. The children 2 years and older are always eager to help and feel quite satisfied when a task is completed (especially when they get to lick the brownie bowl!) I also feel a quiet satisfaction when the week comes to a close and I reflect on all we’ve accomplished. It’s pretty sweet!
I am currently enrolled in the LifeWays training. Our group workshops began last June and continue through this coming June. The training entails meeting 4 times during the year for intensive training, doing 3 child observations extending for 9 months, writing a research paper, having monthly conversations with an early childhood mentor, a nature walk and monthly observation, knowledge of kinderharp and song writing/singing, a garden plan, assigned reading, and last, but not least, internal work! So far, it has been wonderful learning for me and then, of course, the children also, as I am able to meet them with more knowledge.
I’ve really enjoyed writing this and I hope it reads well. You are all so great! I’m thankful for all LifeWays’ families and friends, and hope this finds you warm and happy! Sincerely, Abbey
