Sparking Curiosity in the 2s!

Whether they are exploring the works on their shelves, discovering materials in the sensory bin, or trying new food during food tasting, Classroom 2 is always tapping into their curiosity and sense of wonder. In the first part of the school year, the learners in Classroom 2 explored and worked independently, mostly focusing on their own activities as they got comfortable in their new environment. However, the teachers have observed a shift in the children's exploration as they have begun to develop interests as a group. They noticed three emerging themes in their play as this shift began: acting out stories, pretending to fly on an airplane, and the old classic, playing store. 

The inspiration for these curiosities stemmed from books found in the classroom and materials, like cardboard boxes, used in the Art room. Reading stories like Abiyoyo by Pete Seeger gave the learners a chance to work on their social-emotional skills by connecting with the characters' feelings. Using repetition and sequencing gives each child a chance to predict what comes next in the story, often shouting out in excitement what’s next. 

When the Classroom 2 teachers introduced Abiyoyo in December, the children were captivated by the tale of a boy and his father who save their town from a hungry giant. The learners understood that the monster was “just pretend,” and enjoyed singing the Abiyoyo song, retelling the story, and acting it out together. The story became a powerful tool for practicing problem-solving and exploring emotions. They also made connections between Abiyoyo and other stories read in the studio, such as The Billy Goats Gruff by Paul Galdone. Many noticed that both stories had a slightly scary character whose challenge was ultimately resolved through creative thinking and courage.

Another major interest for our learners emerged after Spring Break: airplanes! When they read Airplane by Byron Barton, the children were eager to share their own travel experiences - excitedly talking about trips to Florida, Mexico, Santa Fe, Colorado, and Wisconsin. Some recounted meeting pilots or pressing buttons in the cockpit, while others described the thrill of takeoff or walking up and down the aisles. This excitement quickly translated into play. Just before the break, one curious learner in the afternoon class pulled out a chair and pretended to fly. Another joined in and added a chair behind, and soon, an entire classroom airplane was assembled. Tickets were handed out, seatbelts were buckled, and we radioed the control tower for takeoff!

These themes continue to emerge in studio time as well. In art class, children experienced awe and excitement while experimenting with the wind tunnel, watching paper fly through the air, and even building their own airplanes using glue, tape, and hole punchers. The sensory and imaginative exploration only deepened their engagement and creative thinking.

Following the children’s interests, Classroom 2 recently began a new class wide project using large cardboard boxes leftover from their paper exploration after the Art Show. Each class voted on a theme to explore more deeply, using the boxes as a foundation for collaborative construction. The morning class chose Abiyoyo! Some children shared their visions: “White hair!” “Bigger!” “Arms!” Don’t be surprised if you visit and see a giant monster in our room—you might even be handed a magic wand or invited to dance along with us.

Meanwhile, the afternoon class enthusiastically selected airplanes. Their first decision? Paint it blue! Over the next few weeks, they’ll be building their aircraft, and if you come by, you’re welcome to hop in for a ride. One of our recent destinations was the sun, so be sure to dress for hot weather!

In the spirit of the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasizes the importance of constructing meaning through hands on experiences and relationships, their next step will be to invite families into the classroom. They can’t wait to collaborate, taping, gluing, and decorating, as we build both our creations and our shared understanding together.