Enjoying the simple things

By Julie LeBlanc

As many of us grown-ups start our days by grabbing a coffee and rushing around, little ones at Glebe Cooperative Nursery School (GCNS) start their days taking in and learning from all the hustle and bustle around them. The GCNS playground in the heart of the Glebe is a perfect spot for young children to experience the world.

The neighbourhood is a busy place with lots to see. There are cars and trucks driving by. There are little babies being walked in strollers. There are bigger kids walking by or riding their bikes on their way to school. There are all the shapes and sizes of dogs being taken out for a morning stroll. So much going on gives lots of opportunities for naming and counting!

Little ones love big things that move and make noise! With an elementary school across the street, big yellow school buses arrive every morning to drop off students. The occasional sightings of police cars and fire trucks driving by always bring lots of excitement too.

Spending time outdoors every morning also allows children to observe the weather and feel the changing seasons. Children learn that we all dress differently as the weather changes. They also experience how our activities and modes of transport can change from season to season. They notice the air changing, the trees changing and will soon look forward to watching giant snow ploughs on the street!

Looking at the world through a child’s eyes is a good reminder to slow down and enjoy the simple things.

Julie LeBlanc is responsible for the communications for Glebe Cooperative Nursery School.