Last week's class led to some of the children being interested in the transferring of water. This led me to think of ways to extend their investigations this week. I put out the water table hoping to see some of the same explorations taking place but also hoping that the larger space would encourage the children to work side by side and perhaps even collaborate together.
Using a sponge to squeeze water into a cup not only strengthens the muscles in his arm and hand, it also allows him to investigate the movement and absorption of water. The Wonder Science class offered in January will involve much more time devoted to water exploration.
As I had hoped to see, this arrangment allowed the children to work together! Here one guy uses the sponge to squeeze water into the cup held by the other guy. Notice both are very carefully observing what happens.G. was interested in dumping water on the floor with his bowl. Now logically, this creates slippery floors and is not a safe exploration in the classroom. However, instead of seeing this behavior as "wrong", I quickly try and offer him an alternative. A safe way to investigate his theories while keeping him and the other children safe. A big bucket placed on the floor allows him to do just that!
Many times, children in programs inspired by Reggio Emilia, Italy, are misunderstood as being able to do whatever they want to do. People might think teachers and adults have no expectations for children in a child-led environment. This is very much the opposite! In my opinion the expectations are often times higher. Respecting children doesn't mean we don't give them boundaries and limitations. Children are looking at us to show them how to care for materials properly, how to treat others and ourselves with respect. While we try and redirect, offer alternatives, and limit the "no" word, it's not a free for all! Children are given opportunities to investigate and explore with an adult who is willing to keep them safe but also instill the spirit of wonder. One of the things that immediately caught my eye when learning about these schools was children using real knives to cut snack up for the group. Of course, the children are shown how to use the knives appropriately, safely and logically, if they are not able to do so, they are not given this opportunity. Toddlers are deeply interested in being independent and testing their boundaries. I believe if we raise our expectations and offer logical consequences, children will feel safe, trusted, and true learning can happen!
My mentor, Carol Moyle, was/is a Montessori teacher as well as an artist. She taught me so much about slowing down the process and teaching methods to children. For example, during this week's class the children were shown how to wipe the brush on the edge of the container so the glue wash wouldn't drip all over their work. It seems very simple, but once reinforced, it becomes a natural part of their process.
The Wonderment of children never ceases to amaze me. Here E. notices a speck of paint on the floor and must take time out of her collage to investigate! Everything is important and everything offers learning opportunities!
The children and parents were asked to only take one sheet of tissue paper. Therefore, if they wished to have another color, they would need to look for another person with a color they wanted, and ask them to share. This worked beautifully and the children were able to use their language skills and a sense of understanding.
Breaks are important, we all need them, right? 
"Where there is light there is also shadow" German Proverb
Using an overhead projector on the floor offers endless possibilities for investigating light and shadow. An adult nearby offers gentle guidance about caring for this new material. Not only did the toddlers did treat the projector with respect, they were able to wonder and enjoy the "magicness" of the experience!
Sometimes children just need a quiet, safe, lap to sit back and enjoy the show!
What will the crystal feel like when projected onto the wall? What happens to my hand when I touch the light?
Having time and space to wonder at the light and shadows created is priceless. What questions or observations might they be making? 
Many times, N. looked into this light and said "Cheese". Obviously making the connection between a camera flash and the light from this projector.
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