Columbia Greenhouse Nursery School

Time to build the Chrysler Building! You in? There is no stopping these builders!

We experienced in our brains what it felt like to slow down, notice, make connections and how it unlocks thinking, connection making and language.

Next, we made another vital discovery — if there is this much to learn by looking closely at a button, imagine what we can learn when we slow down, quiet our mind and really, really, really look at children!

Children have so much to show us! When we rush in with our questions, commands and agendas sometimes we miss the important messages they are trying to share with us! At the same time, our observations of kids are not passive. When we observe children we think about their motivations, skills and processes. We wonder where they can go next.

As is so often the case in play-based learning, on the surface it may look like we are just playing with buttons. But really we are practicing thinking, noticing and connecting. Because we know (even as adults!) .

Inspired by the book “in a button” by Melissa Butler

Spent last night learning from and connecting with . His wisdom and knowledge inspired everyone of us. His warmth and openness filled the room! So grateful he was able to come and share with the Greenhouse community. Huge thank you to for partnering with us.

When the city becomes the classroom the learning opportunities are limitless! From simply walking around the block to noticing public art, our kids make interesting observations, important connections and expand their ideas as they explore their community.

Loose parts and big blocks in the big yard open up the play and allow for a variety of experiences - like building your own ice skating rink!

Oh, spring is hitting hard today!

Speaking, listening, writing and connecting-all in one simple activity. Swipe through to see our kids turn intentional and integrated language development into a meaningful social connection when they take turns interviewing each other. Young children learn best when skills, ideas and experiences are connected and meaningful to their here and now.