With the arrival of summer all that I can think about is taming our 15 acres of woods.
I have been working on making play areas in the woods for the kids.
They do not really need MY help as they have the entire woods at their disposal...
but some semi focused spaces are nice.
We do not do the plastic thing as natural spaces and natural materials are so much better for kids.
Unfortunately these days we do not live in a world that grows free-range children. Instead the problem of "nature-deficit disorder" predominates. This term describes the fact that children who are obsessed with computer games, tv, and other artificial entertainment are deprived of the natural wonders of the world. They miss the developmental benefits that come from playing freely in nature.
We want children to be outside making forts, catching frogs, and climbing trees.
Not playing X Box, unplugging to the tv, and over scheduled with structured activities....
This is a fundamental principal in Waldorf education. However, a non-waldorf author, Richard Louv wrote the book: Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder. It is a good read and reminds us to unplug our children ASAP!
Here are some pictures that I am currently obsessed with!
