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Sound/Music Activity:

Plan: We'll talk about birds and listen to their chirping outside. Then, we'll try to sing like them.

Aboriginal Connection: We'll use special sticks to make sounds like aboriginal music.

Goal: Have fun making music and connecting with nature.

Movement/Dance Activity:

Plan: We'll pretend to be trees swaying in the wind. Then, we'll dance together to a special song.

Aboriginal Connection: We'll dance to an aboriginal song called "Inanay Capuana."

Goal: Enjoy moving our bodies and feeling like part of nature.

Drama Activity:

Plan: We'll watch ants outside and pretend to be marching like them. Then, we'll act out a story about the land and its creatures.

Aboriginal Connection: We'll read a story about indigenous culture and pretend to be animals from the story.

Goal: Have fun imagining and playing while learning about nature and indigenous stories.

Each activity aims to make learning fun and connect children with nature in creative ways.

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In our drama experience, we journeyed into the world of storytelling inspired by the enchanting book "Welcome to Country" by Auntie Joy. Recalling my observation of ants during Assessment 2, we ventured outside to observe these fascinating creatures in action. As we watched ants crawling along the trees, their orderly march sparked our imagination. Drawing from this natural spectacle, I guided the children in a playful reenactment, inviting them to become ants and join me in marching to the rhythm of the familiar nursery rhyme "The Ants Go Marching One by One." Some children eagerly embraced their roles, scurrying along with enthusiasm, while others observed with curiosity before joining in. Together, we delved into the magic of storytelling and connected with nature, learning valuable lessons about teamwork and the wonders of the natural world.

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With the wind rustling through the trees, we imagined ourselves as graceful trees swaying in the breeze. Stretching our arms and swaying our bodies, we danced together, our movements mirroring the gentle sway of branches. Guided by the rhythmic beats of an Aboriginal song called "Inanay Capuana," we moved with joy and freedom, feeling a deep connection to the earth beneath our feet. Some children twirled and leaped with abandon, while others moved in their own unique ways, all united in the joy of dance and the celebration of nature's rhythms. And some children gave the cuddles to tree at the end as well and felt their barks.

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We went outside to explore the natural sounds around us, focusing on the delightful chirping of birds. Gathering together, we listened intently to their songs, feeling a sense of wonder at the beauty of nature. children intended to sing like birds as well. Inspired by this harmony, we gathered special sticks and learned how to make music like the Aboriginal people. Some children eagerly joined in, tapping out rhythms and creating melodies, while others listened and observed with curiosity. Through this joyful exploration, we not only connected with nature's music but also learned about the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal music-making traditions.

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Connection to Assessment 2 Experience:

These activities build on my previous experience where I felt a strong connection to nature. Just as I found joy in listening to the wind, birds chirping, looking at ants on the tress and observing nature's beauty, these sessions aim to evoke similar feelings in children through music, movement, and drama.

Theoretical Perspectives:

TEDx Talk - Tania de Jong: This talk illustrates how singing together can impact the brain positively. By encouraging children to sing like birds and create music, we stimulate their minds and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.

Movement in the Wild - The Earthbody Institute: This article emphasizes the importance of movement in natural settings. Through activities like pretending to be trees or animals, children learn about nature in an interactive and immersive way.

Lark Wallin - Pretend Play in Natural Settings: This resource underscores the significance of pretend play in natural environments. By engaging in drama activities and acting out indigenous stories, children develop a sense of empathy towards the environment and respect for indigenous cultures.

These activities are designed to provide children with hands-on experiences that engage their senses and imagination, facilitating a stronger bond with nature and an appreciation for indigenous cultures.

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What went as expected?

The children really enjoyed taking part in the activities. They had a lot of fun exploring nature through music, movement, and drama. It was great to see them engaging with the different elements and expressing themselves creatively. They laughed and smiled, showing that they were having a good time.

What did not go as expected?

However, some of the children got easily distracted by what was happening around them or by other toys and things in the environment. This made it a bit challenging to keep everyone focused during the sessions. Some children seemed to lose interest quickly or wander off to explore other things.

What might you do different next time?

To make things better next time, I might try to reduce distractions and find ways to make the activities even more exciting and interesting for all the children. I'll pay closer attention to what they enjoy most and try to incorporate that into the sessions. Maybe I could introduce new props or activities to capture their attention and keep them engaged.

How might you use this growth in your future practice of early childhood education?

This experience has taught me a lot about how to create engaging and inclusive activities for children. In the future, I'll use what I've learned to make sure that all the children feel involved and excited about learning. I'll also be more aware of their individual needs and preferences. By adapting my approach based on their feedback and reactions, I can create even more meaningful learning experiences.

Reflecting on my journey with music, movement, and drama in early childhood education, I've realized just how important these activities are for children's development. They're not just fun and games – they're powerful tools for sparking creativity, imagination, and a love for nature. Seeing the children's joy and enthusiasm has reinforced my belief in the value of hands-on, experiential learning about nature and Indigenous culture as well.

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TEDx Talks. (2013). How singing together changes the brain: Tania de Jong AM at TEDxMelbourne [YouTube Video]. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_HOBr8H9EM

Movement in the Wild: Nature as Dance Partner - The Earthbody Institute. (2017, March 26). https://www.theearthbodyinstitute.com/2017/03/movement-in-the-wild-nature-as-dance-partner/

Lark Wallin, M. (2019, June). The Importance of Pretend Play in Natural Settings. Www.communityplaythings.com. https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/the-importance-of-pretend-play-in-natural-settings#:~:text=When%20children%20are%20given%20the%20time%20and%20space%20to%20play

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