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Children can express their feelings, thoughts, ideas or frustrations in multitude ways.

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The poem " The 100 languages" was written by Loris Malaguzzi, which represented the great multiplicity and richness of the potential that belongs to each child. However, “A hundred is not a hundred”, instead, children possess countless ways to express themselves. Their competencies extend far beyond spoken language, also encompassing faceted ways of expression through gestures, body movements, painting, clay, shadow play, music, and emerging writing (Carolyn Pope Edwards et al., 2011).

Reference:

Carolyn Pope Edwards, Lella Gandini, & Forman, G. E. (2011). The hundred languages of children : the Reggio Emilia experience in transformation. Praeger, Cop.

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Nature-based learning has gained significant popularity in recent years as it encourages children to venture into the natural world, fostering exploration, inquiry, and discovery. This approach empowers children to delve into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning spontaneously (Holdom, 2018). Through the nature-based learning, young children are able to:

1. Observation and Inquiry: Nature-based learning encourages children to observe the natural world and ask questions. This observational and inquiry-based approach is fundamental to scientific thinking and the development of STEM skills. Children learn to explore and seek answers to their questions, fostering a natural curiosity about the world around them.

2. Critical Thinking: Nature-based activities often require problem-solving and critical thinking. Children may need to figure out how to build a bridge, identify different animals, or understand the ecosystem they are in. These activities develop the analytical and logical thinking skills that are integral to STEM subjects.

3. Hands-On Experiments: Nature provides a living laboratory for children to engage in hands-on experiments. They can explore topics like physics, biology, and ecology by interacting with the environment. This practical experience reinforces theoretical STEM knowledge.

4. Environmental Awareness: Nature-based learning nurtures environmental awareness. Children develop an understanding of ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental issues, which are central to both STEM education and responsible citizenship.

5. Math in Nature: Nature is rich in mathematical concepts. Children can learn about patterns, measurements, geometry, and more through activities like counting tree rings, measuring distances, or identifying symmetry in natural objects.

6. Environmental Stewardship: Nature-based learning fosters an appreciation for the environment and a sense of responsibility for its preservation. This awareness can lead to STEM-related careers in fields such as environmental science and conservation.

7. Multi-Sensory Learning: The natural environment engages all the senses, which enhances learning. Children can touch, smell, hear, and see the subjects they are studying, leading to more profound comprehension.

In summary, nature-based learning provides a holistic approach to STEM education by integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with the natural world. It taps into children's innate curiosity, fosters critical thinking, and reinforces the practical application of STEM knowledge. This approach not only contributes to STEM skill development but also encourages a deeper appreciation of the natural world and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Reference:
Holdom, J. (2018). Science, technology, engineering and mathematics learning through the lens of Te whāriki: He whāriki mātauranga mō ngā mokopuna o Aotearoa: Early childhood curriculum. 5(3).

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STEM in Early Learning: Exploring the Natural Environment with Young Children*

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Australia is home to a rich tapestry of Native languages and other languages, each with its unique cultural and linguistic characteristics. The official language in Australia is Standard Australian English (SAE), however, there are approximate twenty-two million people living in Australia have an alternative home language or English dialect. Their home language might be an Australian Aboriginal language or one of many different languages from Europe, Asia and Africa (Carolyn Pope Edwards et al., 2011). And it is just like the song "I am Australian" is saying "We are one, but we are the many", which underscores the importance of unity within diversity and also holds a profound relevance for early childhood bilingualism learning in Australia.

Early childhood bilingualism education celebrates the idea that, like the many languages that coexist harmoniously in Australia, children can embrace the opportunity to learn and communicate in more than one language. The same values of unity within diversity that are evident in the rich fabric of  Native languages and other languages can be integrated into bilingual learning environments. Based on the Early Years Learning Framework (2022), it emphasises the need for educators the implement a curriculum that acknowledges and values all children's cultures, identities, abilities and strengths and that responds to the uniqueness of their family lives.

As caregivers, it is significantly important to foster children's sense of identity and self-worth by showing respect for and valuing their cultural backgrounds. Besides, it is also crucial for encouraging children to continue to use and develop their home language, and in the meantime, providing rich, context-embedded opportunities for them to learn Standard Australian English. Using flexible and holistic approaches to ensure children's participation in learning and provide them with rich opportunities to develop their interests, knowledge and bilingual skills.

Indeed, bilingual education environments celebrate linguistic diversity, encourage cultural understanding, and promote inclusive learning, reflecting the same values that underpin the diverse and vibrant nature of both Native languages and other languages in Australia.

References:

Australian Government Department of Education [AGDE] (2022). Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia (V2.0). Australian Government Department of Education for the Ministerial Council.

Carolyn Pope Edwards, Lella Gandini, & Forman, G. E. (2011). The hundred languages of children : the Reggio Emilia experience in transformation. Praeger, Cop.

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'I Am Australian' in Yawuru language | ABC Australia

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Painting is a powerful and versatile tool that provides young children with a remarkable avenue for exploration and self-expression. When children pick up a paintbrush and immerse themselves in the world of colors, they embark on a journey of discovery that encompasses not only the canvas but their own developing creativity, emotions, and cognitive abilities.

Exploration through painting is an open-ended process that allows children to engage with their surroundings and inner worlds in unique ways. As they dip their brushes into vibrant pigments and make marks on the canvas, they discover the interplay of color and form, cultivating a deep appreciation for aesthetics. They learn how to mix colors, witnessing firsthand the magic of color blending, light, and shadow.

Besides, painting is also a vehicle for emotional expression. Children often lack the vocabulary to articulate complex feelings, and this is where painting becomes their voice. It empowers them to communicate and process their emotions, be they joy, sadness, or wonder. Through the strokes of a brush, children can visually represent their emotions and experiences, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

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Clay, as a naturally occurring substance, can be found in various geological formations around the world. It can be encountered in the forests, in the riverbanks, or even in the gardens in front of your house… a wide range of natural settings you might be involved around you. Also, clay and sensory play are highly valuable activities in early childhood education, offering a wide range of benefits for young learners.

During clay play, it's important to allow children the freedom to interact with the clay without imposing preconceived ideas, such as predetermined expectations of what they are going to create. This open-ended approach nurtures their creativity and encourages them to explore the material in a way that best expresses their individuality and imagination. For example, let them to knead the clay, reshape it, squish it, cut it, lift it, allowing it to flow through their fingers. Also let them try to add some water to the clay, make it more pliable, and then incorporate additional clay to lend it greater firmness. Absolutely, young children can gain a lot of fun with their freeform and exploratory play, and finally they will realize that clay has incredible plasticity.

This sensory integration enhances children's understanding of the environment, fosters fine motor skill development, and expands their sensory vocabulary, promoting language development. It also heightens awareness of surroundings and the diverse sensory experiences of clay, engaging multiple senses simultaneously and contributing to scientific observation skills, which fosters young children's creativity and self-expression, aligning with the child-centered, exploratory approach of early childhood education.

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Children's exploration of paper is a dynamic and multifaceted journey that unfolds in early childhood education settings, developing creativity and supporting their overall skills. Paper, an everyday material, serves as a canvas for young minds to experiment, create, and learn.

How young children experiment with paper?

Drawing and Coloring

Cutting and Collage

Folding and Origami

Painting and Printmaking

Writing and Literacy Development

Educators play a pivotal role in guiding children's exploration of paper in early childhood education. They provide a variety of paper materials to stimulate creativity and curiosity, incorporating different textures and sizes for sensory learning. For example, educators can design activities to develop fine motor skills through cutting, drawing, and folding paper. Children are encouraged to problem-solve as they experiment with paper, with educators guiding them through challenges. Embracing diverse approaches to paper exploration, educators celebrate each child's unique journey, laying the foundation for creativity, fine motor skills, and problem-solving in early childhood education.

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"What is deep listening? For me, deep listening is a life long practice. The more I listen the more I learn to listen. Deep listening involves going below the surface of what is heard, expanding to the whole field of sound while finding focus. This is the way to connect with the acoustic environment, all that inhabits it, and all that there is".

- Pauline Oliveros, 2005

Deep listening, as a lifelong practice that delves beneath surface-level understanding, holds great significance in early childhood education. In this context, deep listening equates to active engagement, enhancing observation skills, and fostering emotional connections with the acoustic and broader environments. For caregivers, this aligns with the holistic approach to education, considering the whole child's development, encouraging cultural understanding, and stimulating critical thinking.

1. Create a Supportive Environment: Cultivate a classroom environment that encourages active listening. Minimize distractions, establish clear communication norms, and create a safe space for children to express themselves.

2. Model Deep Listening: Lead by example. Demonstrate active and respectful listening during interactions with children. This sets a positive model for them to follow.

3. Encourage Questions: Welcome and encourage questions from children. Deep listening often involves asking questions to gain a deeper understanding. Encourage children to ask "why" and "how" questions to stimulate curiosity and inquiry.

4. Provide Opportunities for Reflection: Allow time for children to reflect on what they've heard or observed. Reflection is a key component of deep listening, enabling children to internalize and process information.

5. Engage in Conversations: Engage in meaningful conversations with children. These conversations can cover a wide range of topics and should be reciprocal, allowing children to express their thoughts and feelings.

6. Emphasize Empathy: Teach children the importance of empathy and understanding. Help them recognize the emotions and perspectives of others, which is a fundamental aspect of deep listening.

7. Encourage Active Participation: Promote active participation in group discussions, activities, and collaborative projects. These experiences encourage children to actively listen to their peers and contribute their thoughts and ideas.

8. Use Open-Ended Questions: When engaging in discussions, use open-ended questions that require more than a simple "yes" or "no" response. These questions stimulate critical thinking and deeper exploration of topics.

9. Provide Opportunities for Independent Exploration: Allow children the autonomy to explore and discover independently. This self-directed learning enables them to practice deep listening skills as they investigate their interests and curiosities.

By incorporating these practices into the educational setting, educators can help children develop strong deep listening skills. This not only enhances their ability to understand and connect with their surroundings but also lays a foundation for effective communication, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.

Reference:
Oliveros, P. (2005). Deep listening : a composer’s sound practice. Universe.

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In conclusion, the concept of the "100 languages of children" celebrates the diverse and limitless ways in which young learners express themselves and engage with the world around them. These six entries, ranging from engaging with nature, painting, clay, paper, deep listening, and native languages, are windows into the rich tapestry of early childhood education. Nature beckons children to explore the wonders of the natural world, painting and paper offer canvases for creativity and self-expression, while clay becomes a tactile medium for sensory learning. Deep listening fosters connections and empathy, enabling children to truly hear the world, and native languages honor cultural diversity. These languages of children encourage holistic development, nurturing their minds, bodies, and spirits, and instilling a lifelong love for learning and exploration. Each entry in this multifaceted symphony reflects the boundless potential of young minds and underscores the importance of child-centered education in celebrating the vibrant voices and languages of our future generations.