What does it mean, when we say that the FinlandWay® curriculum is phenomenon-based? Phenomenon-based learning means that education should focus on the phenomena from our surrounding environment and from the society. In our classrooms, learning starts from real-world topics or events — things that are meaningful for children, and visible in the everyday life. Instead of dividing knowledge strictly into subjects like math, language, or science, phenomenon-based method looks at a theme or phenomenon as a whole and explores it from many different perspectives.
Phenomenon-based curriculum suits exceptionally well for working with young children, as it’s all about hands-on exploration of the World around us and creating shared understanding of the different phenomena in it.
Let’s take a look at how the children and teachers explored the phenomenon of water in our Kuwait Nursery. With the guidance of their teachers the little explorers dived deep into the phenomenon through play-based activities. They travelled to the beach in their classroom and learned about sea creatures and size & shape, they explored rain with water spray and had fun sensory experiences discovering 3D-shapes – in this case soap bubbles. Let’s learn more about their activities, explained by Katja Sirvio, Head of Early Years Curriculum, FinlandWay© Kuwait Coordinator .
Exploring Water Phenomena at FinlandWay© Kuwait Nursery
At FinlandWay® Kuwait Nursery, we believe in fostering curiosity and learning through hands-on experiences. One of the most captivating ways to explore the world around us is through water, and we recently embarked on a wonderful water-themed exploration with our toddlers.
Bringing the Beach Indoors: Sand and Water Play
Our journey consisted of a delightful “beach day” indoors. We brought in play sand to create a mini beach experience in the classroom. This allowed the children to engage in sensory play, feeling the texture of the sand, and developing their fine motor skills as they scooped and poured sand. To make the beach experience even more authentic, we introduced sea shells and small toy fish into the water trays. The children enjoyed “fishing” for sea creatures and treasures, developing their hand-eye coordination as they carefully picked up the fish and shells. This activity not only brought the ocean indoors but also allowed the children to explore concepts like size, shape, and texture as they discovered new objects. It was a perfect way to help them make connections between the natural world and their own experiences while fostering their curiosity about the creatures that live in the sea.
Soap Bubbles with Recycled Water Bottles
Another exciting activity involved making soap bubbles using empty water bottles. We filled trays with soapy water and gave each child a water bottle with the bottom cut off. The children blew gently into the bottle to create bubbles, fascinated by the soapy bubbles that floated in the air. This activity not only provided sensory delight but also helped develop fine motor control and hand-eye coordination as they worked on their blowing technique. The bubbles, of course, were a huge hit, with the children laughing and reaching out to pop them.
Exploring Rain with Water Spraying
To deepen the experience, we simulated rain by having the teacher spray water gently on the children. With their rubber boots and raincoats on, the children were excited and curious about how the water felt. Some were thrilled, while others were initially hesitant, but they quickly learned how to enjoy the sensation of “rain” as they got used to the feeling. The children even ran to hide under the table when the “rain” got a little stronger, exploring the concept of shelter and safety during a downpour.
Pedagogical Insights: Learning Through Play
In conclusion, these examples highlight how exploring water phenomena at FinlandWay® Kuwait Nursery created an ideal environment for learning through hands-on experiences. We look forward to more exciting adventures as we continue helping our little learners discover the world around them in a safe and supportive environment.
Katja Sirvio
FinlandWay Coordinator
FinlandWay Khalidiya, Kuwait City
