Clay

Clay is Earth.

Clay is a wonderful resource for building on learning. Clay has the ability to be diverse, open ended and a mean for continual learning. When working with clay we observe the children discover their own abilities in shaping and molding the clay. We also observe their thoughtful inquiries about texture and consistency.

When I begin work on clay it truly is a slow process. We introduce the clay just as it is. This gives children the gift of time and individual creativity. This can go on for many weeks before introducing any tools or mediums to shape the clay. We truly want to give children a pure experience before adding to their exploration with clay.

After this introduction we can then use provocations such as and not limited to; books, pictures, sculptures, wooden models and pottery. This can give children a tangible visual of the capabilities that clay can have in the external world.

Water is next. Water changes clays consistency, this is a mind blowing experience as the clay has developed a brand new form, shape and texture.

Tools are last. Tools can range from wooden sculpting tools to metal scrapes, wire and rollers. This changes the appearance of clay and clay can go from one piece to multiple pieces. This is why tools are last, multiple pieces of clay brings a sort of complexity into the learning experience.

Happy Provocations Everyone.
-Karla