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I went on a captivating journey through New South West during my Easter break, adding to the myriad of destinations I've explored. The rugged coastlines and pristine beaches of this region beckoned me with their untouched beauty and serene ambiance. The rhythmic cadence of the waves compelled me to sway in harmony, as if dancing to the ocean's enchanting melody. I felt as though I were a leaf adrift on the water's surface, effortlessly carried by its ebb and flow. Sound of the wave not only enlighten my mind but it also releases any tension in my body. With each crashing wave, I felt more relaxed and at peace, allowing me to fully embrace the therapeutic power of the sea.

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I stumbled upon these "mirrors" and caught a glimpse of my reflection. It felt as though the reflection revealed my true inner self, deepening my attachment to this place. Certain places resonate with us on a profound level, feeling intrinsically connected to our identity. As the video "DADIRRI" poignantly states, "we are the river people, we can’t hurry the river, we need to move with the river and understand its waves" (Rose, 2017). Indeed, the way individuals interact with their environment offers insight into their character. Our surroundings shape us, reflecting and defining who we are.

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As I sit here, I find myself deeply immersed in the moment, attuning my senses to the subtle symphony that surrounds me. The rhythmic cadence of the waves, the melodious chorus of birdsong – each sound contributes to a harmonious tapestry of nature's own making. This sensory experience evokes memories of the insightful video from session 2, "Murray Schafer: Listen." In this enlightening piece, Murray Schafer astutely observes that we are the composers of this vast and wondrous composition that is our world (Murray, 2009).Listening attentively to our surroundings is not merely an act of passive observation; it is a transformative experience that has profound implications for young children's cognitive, emotional, and social development. When children are encouraged to listen carefully to the sounds of nature, they become more attuned to the world around them, developing a deeper sense of connection and belonging.

Listening fosters mindfulness and presence, allowing children to engage with their environment in a meaningful way. It promotes concentration, attention to detail, and auditory discrimination skills, all of which are essential for language development and literacy acquisition. By actively listening to the varied sounds of nature – from the rustling leaves to the chirping crickets – children expand their vocabulary, enhance their auditory memory, and refine their listening comprehension skills.

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Victoria University - Footscray Park Campus 2

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Victoria University - Footscray Park Campus 2

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Murray Schafer, R., & NATIONAL FILM BOARD OF CANADA. (2009). Listen. Www.nfb.ca. https://www.nfb.ca/film/listen/

Rose , M. (2017). DADIRRI (Official Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr Video) :: 3 minute promo. Www.youtube.com. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tow2tR_ezL8&t=108s

Wilson, R. (2007). Nature and Young Children : Encouraging Creative Play and Learning in Natural Environments, Routledge. (pp. 1–18). https://vucollaborate.vu.edu.au/content/enforced/1816406-ECE2008-1-2023-HWB-151670/Nature_and_Young_Children_Encouraging_Creative_Pla..._----_(Chpater_1_Children_creative_play_and_the_natural_environment)2.pdf?ou=1945814

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When I gaze upon these plants, I'm struck by how their buds resemble stair steps, each one leading to a magical realm where I envision fairies dwelling. As I become immersed in this whimsical imagination, I am reminded of the profound significance of nature in fostering children's development. This reminds me of Nature and Young Children : Encouraging Creative Play and Learning in Natural Environments, Routledge. Wilson mention "Natural environments stimulate play, development, and learning in a special boundless way"(Wilson 2007). Nature serves as a boundless playground for children, offering endless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and creativity. Unlike structured indoor environments, the natural world stimulates all five senses, encouraging children to engage with their surroundings in a multi-dimensional way. Whether it's feeling the texture of leaves, listening to the rustling of trees, or observing the intricate patterns of a butterfly's wings, nature provides a rich sensory experience that is vital for cognitive and sensory development. In addition to physical and sensory development, nature plays a crucial role in nurturing children's emotional and social well-being. Natural settings offer a peaceful and calming environment that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of overwhelm. Time spent outdoors encourages mindfulness and presence, allowing children to connect with their inner selves and develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them.