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Winter in the Forest - January 2023

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 19:16:50 GMT

Building fires together

Winter weather also presents the opportunity to build fires together and practice fire safety techniques. We teach children fire safety rules such as three points of contact with the ground and not to run or play in the fire pit area. Many groups enjoy working as a team to collect sticks and help set up the logs for burning. Sometimes, we are able to cook over the fire together, making baked apples, soup, and more.

Enjoying Fall in the River's Edge Forest

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 02:06:16 GMT

Fall brings excitement and joy not only to the kids, but guides as well!

Thank you for allowing us to work with your children. We are so appreciative for all of our supportive families in the River’s Edge community. Happy Thanksgiving!

Summertime, the River's Edge Way!

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 20:18:06 GMT

The fun of summer has just begun at River's Edge!

FORESTcamps: where childhood comes to life with imagination and wonder!

FORESTplay: where positive memories are made daily as we connect with nature, self, and others! Each week has a different theme to promote deeper understanding of natural elements and facilitate engagement and growth. Our groups have been spending most of their time exploring in the creek, observing insects around camp, and listening to birds! We have also treasure hunted, built forts, played games, and had many mud creations.

FORESTtherapy: Our FORESTtherapy social skills groups this summer include different groups of preschool and school age children. During FORESTtherapy, we not only work on social skills but also practice mindfulness. Many have become very adept at their yoga and breathing techniques! While working on our focusing skills, we have created art from nature including stepping stones, mandalas, and family portraits. We aim to facilitate connecting with peers, and nature serves as our platform for therapeutic activities and discussions.

If you are interested in any of our programs, contact us today! We wish everyone a happy and healthy summer spent outdoors!

Winter Adventures & Connecting with Nature Tips

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 19:15:05 GMT

Nature provides endless opportunities for learning, exploring, and free play. As children move throughout the forest, they begin to increase their awareness and tune in all of their senses to the environment.

Spending significant time in nature has been linked to better overall physical and mental health, in addition to children having better academic performance. In all of our River’s Edge programs, children are moving their bodies and testing limits as they play. The natural materials provided allow for creativity and expression, in addition to the development of physical strengths.

Throughout the winter, we have been taking many hikes and ventures to see what we could find in the forest and what changes may have occurred in the colder weather. There is rarely a dull moment as children begin to notice frozen water along the creek, frost covering the ground, many nut shells surrounding the trees, and more. As children become more experienced in the forest, we observe them beginning to notice natural elements on their own and showing them to us as guides, rather than us being always the first to point a discovery out.

NATURE, the ultimate sensory experience for young children!

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 19:12:25 GMT

Learn more about WHY varied sensory experiences and movement are so important for the developing child!

Proprioception tells us how much force or muscle strength to use for different activities. This sense helps us know how to complete tasks such as picking things up gently, knowing how to put something down without force, and being overall more aware of our bodies.

Nature offers plenty of full bodied play that will stimulate the proprioceptive sense. When children build forts with palettes or planks, they are engaging in “heavy work.”
Heavy work provides sensory input and can be therapeutic as children focus to pick up a heavy log and have to coordinate with their body.
Other examples may include: pushing a swing, pulling the rope swing or a heavy wagon, or digging with a shovel.

Benefits of time in nature & a longer, slower childhood!

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 17:42:25 GMT

How does connecting with nature support the WHOLE child?

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal highlights the importance of a longer, slower childhood. Nature can greatly contribute to a longer, slower childhood and positively influence all areas of child development.

What does this mean?

Children need enriching and "varied" positive experiences for their brains to remain malleable for longer periods of time.
Children learn there are many possibilities and often more than one answer to a question when they spend significant time in nature.
The forest gives space for children to follow their curiosity and wonder. Nature is constantly changing, encouraging children to discover and play in novel ways.

It’s all about the brain! T he architecture of the brain includes and ongoing process of neuron activity!

The early years are the most active time period for neural connections to be formed.
Connections are early in the brain build the foundation for later connections.
In summary, the early childhood experiences will shape how well the brain functions through adulthood.

What about children with frequent negative experiences? When children experience many negative or stressful experiences, their brain develops at a rapid pace, which is not optimal for continued learning and flexibility.

What must be considered to positively influence the young developing brain?

Varied nurturing environments
Areas where children feel safe to take healthy risks, feel supported, and can thrive
Connections to others, nature and self
The foundation for successful later years
Unstructured play opportunities
Opportunities to practice leadership, social skills, and flexibility

Having your child enrolled in our programs is one way you are enhancing their development and laying the groundwork for social-emotional competence, necessary for success! Investing in the early years of childhood for quality experiences will lead to better long-term outcomes in adulthood! NPR recently published an article that sparked our attention titled, "A top researcher says it's time to rethink our entire approach to preschool" and notes how children in structured settings are expected to be quiet, listen to the teachers, and are expected to absorb information. In the forest, children are encouraged to communicate, ask questions, and feel empowered to engage in child-led learning and play.

Interestingly, we learn that families of wealth are not choosing these state-wide structured preschools as often. They are choosing programs that focus on: art, music, movement, and NATURE . The research focuses in on a statewide preschool in Tennessee, where children were shown to perform poorly academically in the long-term compared to the children who did not attend. Additionally, the author notes how PLAY is the primary way in which children learn, and need the opportunity speak openly.

At River’s Edge, we believe play is the best way children learn, and is the right of the child! When we take this unstructured play away and primarily have our children indoors for academic learning, they are not taking appropriate risks, learning how to control their bodies, using essential executive functioning and problem-solving skills. Movement has been shown to facilitate regulation and calm for children who are experiencing dysregulation. How can children reset their mind and bodies in a setting where they are being told what to do constantly and not given freedom to explore?

Researchers are not the only ones noting the need for quality preschools and nature based learning. State leaders are beginning to recognize the importance of connecting our communities and young children with nature. Maryland House Bill 376 titled “Outdoor Preschool License Pilot Program” was examined on January 19th.

The bill includes launching a pilot program for licensing of outdoor preschools
River’s Edge will likely be chosen to become one of the pilot school locations
River’s Edge Forest Play will be receiving a visit early April from the Maryland State Senator, Sarah Elfreth
The pilot program will aim to investigate benefits of outdoor, nature-based classrooms, and expand accessibility to high-quality learning child care programs

Sources: Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University

Alison Gopnik, The Wall Street Journal

Anya Kamenetz, NPR: Education

Winter and Rain Gear for Kids

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 01:49:25 GMT

Finding the right gear to keep your kids warm and dry shouldn't be so complicated! Here are the brands we have tested and recommend! Note: River's Edge is an Amazon Associate which means we earn from qualifying purchases when you use the amazon links below! Thanks for your support!

Layer 1- Base Layer. NO COTTON! This layer touches your child's skin and cottons holds moisture so you don't want a wet layer on their skin. Look for wool or polyester.

Thermajane Girl's Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set with Fleece Lined

Thermajohn Boy's Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set with Fleece Lined

Pure Merino Wool KidsThermal Underwear Pajama Set, Natural & Organic Warm Base Layer Long John, Toddler & Infant Sleeper

Layer 2- Insulation Layer. Fleece, polyester, or wool jacket or sweater and sweatpants. Once again if you can avoid cotton it will repel the water that might seep in some how from the outside. The Mud Kingdom shirt is unisex not just girls!

Columbia Girls' Glacial Legging

Columbia Boys' Glacial Fleece Banded Bottom Pant

Mud Kingdom Kids Fleece Shirts High Collar Soft Tops Unisex

Columbia Girls' Benton Springs Fleece Jacket

Columbia Boys' Steens Mountain Ii Fleece

Layer 2.5- WHEN IT IS REALLY COLD! We recommend wearing a vest over layer 2!

Amazon Essentials Boys' Heavy-Weight Puffer Vests

Amazon Essentials Girls' Heavy-Weight Puffer Vest

Layer 3- Waterproof Layer. This will be an investment but it can be used on warmer rainy days without layers and on cold days with layers under. We have seen many brands but these are the ones that pass the 5 hour full day of rain River's Edge test!

JAN & JUL Waterproof One-Piece Puddle-Dry Rain Play-Suit for Baby Toddler and Kids

OAKI Rain & Trail Suit - Kid &Toddler - Girl & Boy One Piece Rain Jacket & Pant

CeLaVi - Kids Rain Suit Reflective Waterproof 2 Pcs Jacket and Pants/or Dungarees Age 2T to 10Y -23 Colors

Helly-Hansen Kids Bergen Hooded Fully Windproof Waterproof Rainset

Layer 4- Extremities. Head needs to be covered either with a hat, hood from fleece jacket, or balaclava. Hands- some kids like the cheap stretchy liner gloves under but they MUST have winter mittens that zip or velcro up the side. Feet- Wool socks with >50% wool in the materials and insulated winter boots with neoprene.

MERIWOOL Merino Wool Kids Hiking Socks for Children 3 Pairs

Eocom 6 Pairs Children's Winter Warm Wool Socks Kids Toddlers Boys Girls Thermal Thick Boot Cozy Crew Socks

Gordini Kids

Obermeyer Boys' Thumbs Up Mitten (Little Big Kids)

BOGS Unisex-Child Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rubber Neoprene Rain Boot

Going on a Bear Hunt!

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 01:49:23 GMT

You can go on an imaginary bear hunt no matter where you are! Swish, splash, and squelch along with the story, and then make your own bear hunt obstacle course in your backyard using materials you can find in your home.

Explore!

It all starts with a story: “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. You can watch the animated story or performed by the author .

1) It’s time to go on a bear hunt! Create an obstacle course using items you can find in your home and backyard. Try and see how many of these movements you can get into your obstacle course:

Through
Carry
Under
Spin
Over
Slow
Jump
Run
Balance
Climb

Ideas for your obstacle course

Hula Hoops – Use these to jump from hoop to hoop, roll from one spot in the course to another, or to hula-hoop to the next activity!
Ladder – Jump between the rungs of the ladder while it is lying on the ground
Frisbees – These can be used as stepping-stones or markers to run or hop to
Hose – Use to jump over or make a balancing line on the ground
Balls – Bounce, roll, and throw your way between different points in the obstacle course
Playground – Swing and climb your way from one side to another without touching the ground!

Get creative with your obstacle course! The sky is the limit. You can use anything you can think of to challenge your body.

More obstacle course ideas:

9 simple obstacle course ideas

Use chalk to make a course

Make hurdles from pool noodles

2.) Share your obstacle course! You can take a picture of your unique obstacles or a video of you going through your course. Then, you can show it to our River’s Edge Community on our Facebook page or in the comments below!

Extension!

Did you love the story? There are many other activities you can do along with this story. Here are two ideas:

Discovery Bottles

Pre-writing skills

The Best Nest

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 01:49:22 GMT

A big sign of Spring is the sights and sounds of beautiful birds! Big and small, in trees, on wires, soaring in the sky or hopping on the ground, birds are everywhere right now! In this activity, you will get to observe the bird sights and sounds in your area, build your own “best nest,” and learn more about bird-watching!

Explore!

Spark your creativity with a story: “The Best Nest” by P.D. Eastman.

1.) Go on a walk in your neighborhood and see how many bird sights and sounds you can find! Some things you may find:

Birds chirping
Birds chasing each other
A bird flying
A bird with something in its mouth
A bird in a tree
A bird on a wire
A bird hopping on the ground
A bird preening (cleaning its feathers

How many different bird sounds can you hear? These are some common birds you may find around your home:

In order: Starling, Crow, Sparrow, Pigeon, Robin

2.) After you finish your bird-watching expedition, try your hand at making a nest! In the story, Mr. and Mrs. Bird use straw, string, stuffing, and hair to make their nest. What materials can you find in your backyard to make a bird’s nest?

In order: Starling, Crow, Sparrow, Pigeon, Robin

3.) Share! Take pictures of your best nest and share it with your River’s Edge friends and families! You can share at our Facebook page or in the comments below! We are excited to see your nests!

Extension!

Bird Watching Tips

- Look for birds all day, but especially in the morning and evening, when birds are most active.

- Practice staying still and quiet to see the most bird activity.

- Try imitating the different bird sounds and calls you hear to help you practice differentiating between bird calls!

Bird Watching Apps and Resources

Great bird ID app with pictures and audio
Lessons, activities, and tons of birding info for all ages!
Other bird's nest activities: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/161637074106494189/ and https://www.pinterest.com/pin/63191200996558623/

Fairies in the Forest

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 01:39:05 GMT

The forest is a magical place! Can you find evidence of fairies where you are,

either in the forest or at home?

Explore!

Start the fun off with a story: "Backyard Fairies" by Phoebe Wahl.

1.) Go on a fairy hunt! Can you find evidence of fairies and fairy homes? Look in the trees, under rocks, by the creek, in your backyard.

2.) Make a home for the fairies! Collect the materials you have around you – sticks, rocks, moss, flowers, grass, bark, leaves, anything you can find. Create a fairy house to visit when you leave. Then, go back and visit. Did the fairies come while you were gone?

3.) Share your fairy evidence and fairy house! Show your River’s Edge friends and families what you found and created. Share on our Facebook page and/or in the comments below! We can't wait to see what you can create!!

Extension

Now that you’ve made a fairy home, what else do fairies need? Make a fairy village with shops, other homes, farmer’s markets, restaurants, gardens, etc. Where do your fairies get their food? Where do they sleep? Where do they sit to eat? What do they do for fun? Keep sharing with your River’s Edge friends as you expand your fairy house for more and more fairies!

Animals Everywhere!

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 01:39:05 GMT

No matter where you are, forest or home, you can find animals everywhere! From very big to very small, animals can live in trees, under the ground, in caves, and even in our homes. Have fun with this activity identifying animals near you, going on an animal hunt, and learning more about animals!

Explore!

Begin with a story to prepare for a great animal adventure: “ Rumble in the Jungle ” by Giles Andreae.

1) Get moving and get outside in your neighborhood or in the forest. While you are out, look and listen hard for animals, animal sounds, and evidence of animals. How many animals can you identify in your area?

2.) Play a game with your family! Gather toy animals that you have around the house – big or small, plastic or plush. Ask a family member to hide the animals for you. (You can play this game a few times and hide the animals for your family member, too!) Then, go on a hunt and find all the animals!

3.) Share! Take pictures of animals or animal evidence you found during your walk and make a list of how many animals you identified. Tell your River’s Edge friends and families how many animals you found and see what other friends and families found during their time exploring! Post your pictures on our Facebook page and/or in the comments below!

Extension

Choose one of the animals that you used for your animal hunt game and learn more about that animal. What does it eat? What kind of environment does it live in? Is it more solitary or social? Then, using materials you find in nature and in your backyard, make a home for the animal you chose. Make sure you include food, a place to sleep, water, trees, rocks, and anything else you can think of. Then, share with your River’s Edge families and friends using the links above! We can’t wait to see what you made!

The Many Colors of Nature

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 01:39:05 GMT

Spring is here, and with spring, we can see the world come alive in many beautiful colors. How many colors of spring can you find at your home? Here is a fun lesson plan from River's Edge to enjoy at home!

Explore!

Start the adventure with a story: “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt.

1.) Go on a spring color scavenger hunt! How many colors can you find?

Red
Purple
Beige
Gray
White
Black
Green
Yellow
Orange
Blue
Pink

2.) Make a nature color wheel or rainbow using items you can find outside!

3.) Share! Take pictures of colors that you found during your scavenger hunt and of your color wheel or rainbow and

share them with our River’s Edge families and friends! Share pictures here: Facebook and/or in the comments below! We can't wait to see what you can create!

Extension

Take those crayons or other drawing supplies outside and draw a picture of colorful spring scenery! Feel free to share your beautiful drawings with your River's Edge friends on Facebook or comment below.

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Winter in the Forest - January 2023

Enjoying Fall in the River's Edge Forest

Fall brings excitement and joy not only to the kids, but guides as well!

Summertime, the River's Edge Way!

The fun of summer has just begun at River's Edge!

Winter Adventures & Connecting with Nature Tips

Nature provides endless opportunities for learning, exploring, and free play. As children move throughout the forest, they begin to increase their awareness and tune in all of their senses to the environment.

NATURE, the ultimate sensory experience for young children!

Learn more about WHY varied sensory experiences and movement are so important for the developing child!

Benefits of time in nature & a longer, slower childhood!

How does connecting with nature support the WHOLE child?

Winter and Rain Gear for Kids

Going on a Bear Hunt!

Explore!

Extension!

The Best Nest

Explore!

Spark your creativity with a story: “The Best Nest” by P.D. Eastman.

Extension!

Bird Watching Apps and Resources ﻿

Fairies in the Forest

Explore!

Extension

Animals Everywhere!

Explore!

Extension

The Many Colors of Nature

Explore!

Extension

Bird Watching Apps and Resources