Children
spend 10-12 hours a day in early care and education settings. The constant
pressure of sharing toys, space and adult attention can be stressful for
children. They need to have a space both indoors and outdoors that can
offer a sense of solitude and privacy. A place where they can unwind and
not be interrupted by adults is necessary to regain a sense of peacefulness
and stillness. Many classrooms now offer such a space for children. However,
teachers tend to forget that young children need the same requirements
in the outdoor environment. Ever thought about building a living hut from
willow shoots where a child can relax with friends outdoors?
Living willow huts are easily made from branches that are directly put into the soil. The website below lists where you can buy the plants and how to install a willow hut. Go to http://www.bluestem.ca/living-willow-structures.htm.