TUNNELS
CHILD BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Physical development – Along with strengthening the torso, shoulders and hand muscles, the mechanics of crawling stimulate different areas of the brain that are important for future learning. When a child is crawling, this repetitious movement helps stimulate and organise neurons, allowing the brain to control cognitive processes such as comprehension, concentration and memory. This skill set is used later in life for reading, writing and sports activities.
- Social /emotional development – You can cover the logs with a sheet and make a cubby or two. Great for hiding, dramatic play or a quiet place for a book or tea party. It could also be a cave for a bear hunt. Add ropes and children can build webs or make a maze.
TEEPEES
CHILD BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Imagination / creativity – Children can pretend to be in a forest or a maze. You can cover the tee pee with a sheet or branches from trees and make a cubby. You can also weave between the logs with fabric and ribbon.
- Social / emotional development – Great for hiding, dramatic play or a quiet place for a book or a tea party. It could also be a cave for a bear hunt. Add ropes and children can build webs or make a maze.
- Science / connection with the world – When there are vines growing, it gives the children the opportunity to connect with the seasons and with growth as they watch the vine slowly reach the top. Passion fruit vines are great as the fruit will hang through the roof and children can watch the flowers develop to ripe fruit.
