Hopscotch, Nature Walks, & Yoga

We had a new friend join our PM class and on the day he visited he asked if we could go outside and play hopscotch. Why not? It was a warm sunny October day and we welcomed not only the opportunity to get outside, but it also happened to be "H" week. A perfect activity indeed. The kids had an absolute BLAST (those who chose to join us - I'm pretty sure almost all did). They put on sunglasses from the dress-up bins and hopped their hearts out.  Some of the kids even attempted to hop backwards, and were pretty successful. The photos below show some great action - I'm sure you'll enjoy them.

There are also photos from our nature walks, which were in the forested area between St. Patrick's church and the hospital. It was interestingly challenging for both classes, trying to keep them paired up with a buddy, and making sure that everyone stayed together. Many of the kids were wary on ground without a path or compacted trail to walk on. The pine needles were soft and many of the kids climbed around bushes and over rocks, testing out their gross motor abilities and balancing skills. We gathered sticks and leaves, and any other signs of fall that we could find (which we now have used in the sensory tub, and for cool fall mobiles in the classroom). The kids had a great time in both groups. We also took the PM class across the street in front of the physician's offices where there were brightly colored leaves to find on the ground. On their trip into the wooded area they discovered an old caterpillar cocoon on a boulder, and some bear scat, which was very interesting to hear them talk about. I wish I could record some of their conversations for you.

Finally there are a few pictures from our first try with yoga teacher Naomi. Both classes turned out great and we'll be welcoming her back in November for another class.

Enjoy!