Giving children time is very important at the Compass School. We strongly feel that children need time. Time to play, time to interact, time to ask questions, time to make discoveries, time to reflect, time to try, time to think, time to wonder, TIME! With this respect for children, our environment is structured to allow children time. Each school year, children have an assigned classroom, to which they spend most of their time. The children are free to take time to interact with their environment and discover all of its learning opportunities! As mentioned in an earlier post, the materials and provocations displayed within our classrooms have been thoughtfully chosen by the teachers. They are viewed as gifts to the students, and the interactions by the students with the materials are, in turn, the gift from the student to the teacher. Our students are not rushed, but the amount of time given to the explorations of a day are determined by the students’ interest. The free-flowing pace of the day gives children time to dive deeply into their environment. They have time to pursue curiosities, passions, questions, and ideas. Children take time to conquer navigating small group dynamics, take chances, and gain confidence. We believe very strongly that children must be respected in the time they need to engage in their environment. Here are some examples of work created from children who took some time! Creating a zoo Extending materials Layering materials Construction discoveries Experimenting with materials Nature mandalas Mixed media art "Things that Fly" Using materials to problem solve "The City" Small group accomplishments Outdoor discoveries "Car Garage" Temporary Art