Casa Squirrels

  Understanding Terra Viva's Risky Play philosophy by Andrea Lopez Growing up in a small city in Colombia, my grandmother's house, surrounded by trees and mountains, until the age of 6, was my kindergarten. I cannot recall any strict rules. On the contrary, I was encouraged to go play and return for lunch, and then go back into the Forest for the afternoon. I used to come back filthy and stinky after a day of exciting adventures. Since the age of 4, I was allowed to climb trees, build forts, make fire, be loud, and explore who I really was!  Was I at risk? perhaps. However, I was privileged enough to live in a safe neighbourhood that provided me and other children of my age with the opportunity to be a "free and wild " child. My experience cannot speak for other children who have grown up in different conditions or were a part of marginalized populations, where safety was simply not there. My introduction provides an overview of who I was as a child and how my experie...

 MUD PLAY!  Understanding Terra Viva's nature play philosophy. Springtime is here, and with it, it's most soothing, fun, children-friendly, and the most amazing and beneficial natural component: MUD. Every child has the need to touch and feel natural elements. The need to ground their little bodies to the elements of the earth. This "need" is then transformed into incredible memories of freedom, friendships, and relaxation. Getting dirty and filthy are synonyms for fun and pure joyful outdoor play.  Playing in the mud is the same as playing in the sand or water, but a little messier! Our outdoor play philosophy supports 100% playing in the mud! Some parents might wonder what are the benefits of mud play and how to support Terra Viva's natural learning practice. Benefits: Medical research from the Mayo Clinic shows that playing in the mud helps strengthen the immune system. The germs in the mud actually help children with allergies and asthma. Furthermore, letting ...