We're loving Spring! Here are some thoughts from our lovely Emma on the wonders of Spring mark making.

Spring provides us with a sense of new beginnings and reawakens that feeling of wonder at the learning opportunities the natural world affords us. The outdoors during this time can be a place for exploration, adventure and creativity which we can harness to inspire learning and development. When we take mark making outdoors, we open up a rich canvas for imagination, discovery, and learning.

Early in the morning, the dew which has formed overnight is tempting for little fingers to touch. What happens when we trace our fingers through it or brush the palm of our hand over it? This is a simple but effective way of children learning that they have the ability to produce a reaction. Their marks can be seen as they explore.

Supermarkets and florists are filled with an abundance of spring flowers at this time of year. From daffodils and tulips to primroses and hyacinth which are all great for observational paintings and drawings. Encourage the children to notice the parts of the flowers as well as their colours, sizes and shapes of petals and patterns. This type of activity can be a real sensory experiences as well as looking great for a display.

But mark making in the spring need not be confined to traditional mediums alone. Nature herself provides a treasure trove of materials waiting to be transformed into works of art. Fallen leaves left over from autumn become canvases for intricate patterns etched with sticks, the muddy ground from the endless winter rain provides a canvas for works of art and fallen blossom can be incorporated into loose parts play.

As children engage in mark making outdoors, they are not merely creating art; they are embarking on a journey of exploration and discovery. They observe the subtle changes unfolding around them—the tender buds unfurling into blossoms, the birds returning in search of food, the earth awakening from its winter sleep. With each stroke of their crayon or splash of their paintbrush, they forge a deeper connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds them.

But mark making in the spring weather is more than just a creative outlet; it is a rich learning experience that encompasses a many of skills and concepts. As they experiment with different materials and techniques, children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. They learn to express themselves visually, communicating their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through the language of art. They explore mathematical concepts such as symmetry, pattern, and shape as they create their masterpieces. And perhaps most importantly, they cultivate a sense of curiosity, creativity, and self-confidence that will serve them well in all areas of their lives.

So, let us embrace the canvas of spring, inviting children to explore and create as we embrace the process of discovery rather than the end product.