Tree Blocks

The Train

When children begin constructing, do they have intention and if so do teachers direct and divert the children's work with questions such as:

~What are you making?

~ What are you doing?

Or by making comments such as ~This looks like a bus (when it really isn't). This type of labeling limits the children's work.

We find it most helpful to make comments and ask questions that invite discussions.

~You look very busy, tell me what's happening?

~Will you be adding more tree blocks?

~Would you like me to get you some loose materials?

In this episode the girls told us they were making a train.One long enough to hold two passengers.

~I see that you left spaces  in between the blocks. What are they for?

 ~What else will you be adding to your train?

~The space is for the seats and we will add the steering wheels!

 ~Will you be travelling far away today?

And so the discussion continues....