I took my class on a walk and we headed back to our room. On the way to our usual path, I noticed that the sprinklers were causing it to get wet. I looked for a different way to go. Today, I was reminded of the benefits of running in the sprinklers.
I told them they could stand still and let the water sprinkle on them so they would not get too wet.
Within moments they were running straight into the cold water trying to catch it.
The sounds of laughter, screams, and giggles were priceless. The more timid kids joined in and together I watched a moment I almost did not let them have because I did not want to get wet.
Watching the kids run in the sprinkles brought back the feeling of summer days when I was little. You could turn on the sprinklers in front of any neighbor’s house and everyone grabbed their swimsuit and joined in.
In addition, there are many educational benefits from running in the sprinklers. Kids love playing in water because it stimulates their senses, sound, sight, and touch. They use auditory from hearing the splashes, visual from seeing the different shapes, lines, and movement of the water, and tactile from feeling the water on their skin.
Water can help connect these senses and can help kids find an emotional balance through this type of sensory activity.
Sprinklers are a great source of social-emotional development it brings kids together to play with each other. If you add cups and spoons for catching and transferring the water, you can add in gross and fine motor skills.
Running in the sprinklers has many benefits and is timeless. Next time instead of trying to avoid the water I will join my class and run in!
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Thank you glad you enjoyed it!
I enjoyed reading about your experience with your students. I love how you can see the connection between simple pleasures and the educational benefits they provide.
Thank you! I learn so much from my class everyday!
I am an old person, but long before you were even on this planet us kids played in sprinklers or the lawn water unit..it was
great and I agree with you in every way that mentally this is a gift for the children. They connect with the other children
and
the stress of life if not on them. .its just a fun time with their friends..
congratulations: You have more understanding of the benefit simple things are for children…You are not only their teacher
but their friend .
Whenever I see the sprinklers I will always look and hope for children running toward them 🙂
What a fun time with your class! We love the sprinkler at home. It’s great for keeping the kids outside and cool plus it’s so easy to do. Haven’t used it as much since getting a pool but I’ll be sure to drag it back out this summer.
Thank you! As long as you are having fun that is awesome!
I remember being fearful of sprinklers but just letting go and getting wet – it’s so liberating. I love how the timid kids joined in 🙂
Thank you! This is why I love teaching, watching kids try something new and discovering they love it!
This is truly fostering children’s interests and making the most from a spontaneous activity.
😊
Most kids love water play. I’m sure the kids were pleased that you turned something spontaneous into a fun activity. Thanks for sharing.
Aww I love this! You sound like a great teacher. 😀
Thank you so much!