Restoring Kindergarten?

What does a prairie teeming with colorful wildflowers have in common with a classroom full of energetic kindergarteners?

More than you think!

As my play-based, nature-infused classroom continually evolves, I can’t help but notice the similarities between my class and the school prairie I am working to restore.

A healthy classroom is not and, in my opinion, should not be homogeneous. All students should be able to learn and grow regardless of their abilities and interests. While some may grow at different rates and under different circumstances, all students should be celebrated and provided every opportunity to thrive.

Likewise, a healthy prairie is certainly not homogeneous. The diversity and variety of wildflowers and grasses is at the core of what keeps it healthy and full of life. Because different flowers bloom at different times of year and attract different animal species, each day is never the same and each day provides new opportunities.

Sound familiar?

Well, maybe taking time to let students get everything they need to bloom when they are ready is a better option than expecting all to show off the same colors at the same time.