Right now our yard is in a state of flux. Every morning we teachers have to decide whether it's a sled day or a trike day. That is if we get to go out at all. Sometimes our yard is too wet or icy to even get out there!
Our backyard is a blessing. We have AstroTurf that doesn't get slippery or smelly as it defrosts and a lot of cement to run those trikes and wagons. That said, we also have a huge sandy sandbox and we expect some very large (and rather attractive) puddles that usually turn up as soon as the snow melts away.
As teachers who use emergent curriculum in our daily work, we love to see the children enjoying those puddles to the fullest. We ask questions, we encourage splashing, and provide opportunities to explore those puddles safely. Which is to say, your children will get wet and dirty. Oh, and did I mention wet?
We will definitely try our best to be reasonable (we promise you no swimming or puddle angels) but when those irresistible puddles start showing up, be prepared for wet boots, splash pants and mitts. And sometimes that pesky water even gets through their outerwear to their pants and socks so please remember to send dry clothes in their backpacks to school.
Thanks in advance for your understanding! We love to foster learning and growth in preschoolers and Spring (if it finally arrives) is a great time of year for it!
Miss Karen