Ice

This morning, upon arrival, our yard was covered in ice.

Yes, it poses a higher risk than usual, and there were times this admittedly made me nervous.  But, the kids were safe, and one of the benefits of spending lots of time outside is actually the inherent risk involved.  If they don't experience some of that, they can lack in confidence.  Another perk the outdoor play provides is the vast menu of "work" opportunities!  In all kinds of weather, there is "work" to be done.  Some is hard, some not so hard, but all of it is real.

For these kids, this morning, the ice was the perfect opportunity for them to be workers.  They found the garden hoes and chipped away at the ice, prying up bricks, boards, tools, sticks, that were covered in the ice.

 I didn't see one kid working alone.  All the chipping projects were group projects, and it was clear that they all knew they needed each other.  They shared not only in the work, but in the satisfaction of success!  Pulling up the object that had been held fast in the ice was such a thrill for all to enjoy!!