Invitations and Provocations

These are words that we have thrown around in the past but after a recent workshop that a few of our staff attended, they have become a reality within the center.

Invitations and Provocations are a method of teaching within the Reggio Emilia philiosophy that both provide children with experiences for exploration and as interests are observed, new materials are offered to provoke deeper thought and more meaningful learning opportunities.

Our first invitation was a simple loose parts play experience using a variety of materials and empty frames.

Based on the observations of the children during the first invitation, over the next few days we provided materials such as clay, beads and mirrors to explore a few more ideas and try to gain more insight into the children's interests. 

For our Kindergarten children, this also allowed us the opportunity to assess some of their strengths as well as areas where they needed assistance developmentally such as literacy and language development, balance, emotional awareness and attending skills. 

Our final invitation really helped us determine how we would move forward with our emergent curriculum planning. We provided the chidren with materials to stack and build with which they created "Paris". 

Stay tuned for our follow up to all of these amazing Invitations with our Provocations Blog coming later this week.

The Vet's in town!

We've had a few sick animals lately. Thankfully we had a Vet in the centre! The Kinders have been interested in animals and dramatic play for a couple of weeks now. They started with making their own Vet clinic and using imaginary items. To enhance their learning and imagination we created "Cairns Veterinary Clinic". 


The Vet Clinic included animals and the types of things you'd find at a clinic such as stethoscope, x-rays, otoscope, scale, treats, cotton balls, medication, etc. The children are learning new vocabulary and literacy skills

We even had a receptionist who signed everyone in and answered the phone calls.

Although, the Clinic was set up for the Kinders all the children enjoyed playing!

The vet made sure to fill out a form about the pet and if the pet needed further care.

The children are practicing their writing and reading skills.

Remember to keep reading our blog for more on our dramatic play area!