One highlight of the IMEC program are the times we get to visit the Norwegian Barnehager. The last one I went to was fabulous. Every Tuesday they arrange to go to the forest for a few hours – we felt really lucky that our observations are scheduled for that time! (I had just come back from Ottawa the night before and really wasn’t ready for school, so this was perfect!)

It was so much fun to go for a hike in the forest with a bunch of kids. It was like a hike on the North Shore and at points it was quite challenging. The kids didn’t seem to mind. They were busy collecting stones, sticks, and leaves, and feeding pinecones to the alligators… Once we arrived at their usual spot they got to play in the forest for a while and then they had a picnic lunch with hot tea. It was amazing!

From a teacher’s perspective, the field trip wasn’t stressful at all (maybe because I am not responsible…). The children knew where to play and they even had a designated area (away form where they would play) in case anyone had to pee.

They made forts with huge branches and slid down rocks. Some also just relaxed. I’m looking forward to next Tuesday!!!