And the journey has begun! What a fantastic beginning to our journey together! Witnessing each hero’s emerging personality, and watching the kindness and mentoring among the heroes were unanimously the guides’ highlights this week.
The Spark Studio… had a blast playing games and getting to know one another. They were busy exploring the works throughout the studio and still have many works yet to explore. The Loose Parts Play area is a huge area of excitement. Heroes spent time deciding what they wanted to create and wrote down a plan. Once outside they discovered a few obstacles in the way of completing their plans; such as every hero planned to use the same materials! Afterwards we reflected on the experience and problem solved as a tribe. Developing the ability to express our thoughts and feelings in words is a life-long skill we get to practice daily. These heroes are eager to learn, seek to challenge themselves, and are quick to put an arm around a new friend and invite them to play! They may not know one another’s names yet, but they are all “my friend.” It is beautiful.
The Fire Studio… is alive with energy, drive and enthusiasm. They are eager to engage in ALL challenges. As we explored Polynesia they were quickly addicted to string games and stick patterns. When we voted on a new squad mascot, the debate was intense (we are awaiting a few heroes to return on Tuesday to settle the tie vote!) Collaboration and “aha!” moments were a constant during our first math challenge. A passion for reading is evident as the studio dives into D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) time. Math games, human rock, paper, scissors, Writer’s Workshop, Civilization … anything they were presented with, the heroes jumped in and enjoyed. After letting their studio go to shambles for three days, the heroes voted to clean their studio and it sparkled when they were finished. The studio is full of passion. It is going to be such a fun year! Beyond the fun, we saw so many moments of mentoring, sharing and patience between the heroes. Everyone was happy to share their knowledge, skills, experience and friendship with anyone in need.
As both studios “Build their Tribe,” they are building a foundation of kindness, mentoring and friendship… not to mention fun! Truly an excellent way to begin their Hero’s Journey!