On Sunday, June 26th, I loaded up the car and took my three kids and their two cousins out to Bailey's Squire Farm for a late-morning Tinkergarten class.
The teacher or "leader", Michael Jones, welcomed everyone to the class. Kids and parents settled in the grass or on blankets. We did a quick welcome activity and sang the welcome song. Then we jumped right into the activity: mud pies!
The kids had a blast! They got their hands in the dirt, played with mixing flowers, leaves, roots and rocks with water to make a mud "cake." They got to practice their social skills - taking turns, sharing, helping each other pump water or collect dirt.
Best of all, Tinkergarten is a family experience. Parents can engage with their kids as much or as little as they want. I let my kids and their cousins mostly roam around on their own and only intervened on occasion. I got a kick out of watching them interact with their peers and engaging in independent play.
On the way home, my kids and their cousins (FIVE KIDS) all fell asleep! The activity outdoors and fresh air knocked them right out. They took a wonderful afternoon nap while I was able to sit in the car in the driveway replying to emails on my phone. Next time I might stop by Starbucks and get myself an ice-cold pink drink and download a podcast to listen to while they nap.
If you're interested in getting your kids outdoors this summer, consider Tinkergarten! It runs year-round on various sessions - YES, year-round! The classes are modified depending on the season.
We love Tinkergarten! It's a great way for us to get out of the city and into nature. Maybe it'll be a good fit for your family! For more information, go to www.Tinkergarten.com.
