A Day in the Life at Playcircle by Karianne
If you were to peek inside the yurt on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday morning around 9:30, this is what you would see:
A group of children and parents/caregivers sitting together around a table, making buns for lunch. They are singing "baking songs." A child who has just arrived walks in. Depending on their age and the time they are coming to the playcircle, they will recognize the songs and get ready. They walk over to the water container to wash their hands, settle in, and start working. They feel the consistency of the dough and play/work with it, learning by doing and gaining a hands-on experience of where bread comes from. The children are acknowledged for what they can do and how they can help. This routine starts every time and every week, providing rituals and rhythm that create a sense of safety and clear expectations.
While the rhythm is established, there is also space for exploration. We go outside almost every time to give the children a sense of the cycle of seasons, another rhythm, and a connection to the natural world that provides a sense of safety. The Steiner playground is a place where they can discover, encounter their boundaries, get dirty, and engage all their senses. They can be together or be by themselves. Parents can enjoy a cup of tea and connect with each other while the children play, explore, or simply observe. And so, the morning continues with its rhythm, including circle time, lunch, indoor play, and storytime.
We utilise toys made from natural materials, but not too many, as the children are naturally creative. There is always a knitting basket available for parents so they can engage in their own activities while the children do their job (play). It is crucial to allow uninterrupted play for the children, giving them the experience of not needing anyone else for it and letting them express themselves freely, instead of being guided by the parents.
It is a place where everyone can grow and develop at their own pace, where we encourage unhurried maturation and strive to lay the foundation for self-discovery before stepping into the fast-paced world.
Overall, the Steiner Playcircle provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can engage in meaningful activities, learn through experience, and develop a strong sense of self. It encourages creativity, fosters a connection with nature, and allows children the freedom to explore and discover their unique talents and interests.