Recycling Fairy Gems...Egg Cartons...and Food...

Recycling Fairy Gems

If you hadn't heard...fairies regularly visit our schoolyard...and leave gems in various colors.  These gems never get old to the children...and they are always thrilled to find them.  It has always been our policy that if the child desires...they can take these treasures home.  We've been doing it so long...we got to thinking..."I wonder if some of the families have big stashes of forgotten fairy gems at their places collecting dust?"  If by chance you have such a stash...feel free to bring it back to Mr. Stephen...and I would be happy to ensure that they are returned to the fairies to do with as they see fit!

Egg Cartons

Our chickens are pumping out a lot of eggs.  While we often are able to keep up with their production by eating the eggs, baking with them, and giving some away...we often find ourselves struggling to find places for them in our refrigerator.  It would be nice to have a few egg cartons to put them in!  Trouble is...we don't buy eggs to have cartons.  If any of you purchase eggs...and think to...we would love to have your used cartons.  These cartons also have proven useful with some crafts we do.

Food

Speaking of chickens.  The chickens would never be so bold as to ask...but on their behalf I will say...if at the end of your meals you have leftovers headed for the trash...put them in a bag or other container...and the chickens will magically turn those leftovers into eggs!  The chickens are NOT picky! They will eat most anything as long as it isn't moldy.  The children also really enjoy having special treats to feed the chickens.  Thanks!

Knitted Toys...

People who bring their children to our home after they have been exposed to non-waldorf inspired programs often comment on the toys in our play room.  "Wow...everything is made of wood and wool!"  They are perhaps surprised to see an absence of plastic toys that loudly beep and race around the room.

This is of course one of the things that contributes to the soft atmosphere that we endeavor to maintain.  It helps the children learn to use their imaginations by using "simple" toys.  We also really believe there is value in the handling of "real" materials...not made pressed in a mold in some factory...but made with love by a craftsperson.

One skill area that I have yet to learn...is in the realm of knitting.  There are some people out there who blow me away with how they can knit whatever they can think of.  I'm not just talking about just knitted hats or blankets...but freely fabricated objects in any size and shape they desire.  One thing that I have seen made that I think is especially fun for preschoolers and kindergartners is knitted fruits and veggies!  Look at the photo...aren't they fun!  A set of these could provide play meals for years...even generations to come!

Here is a youtube video showcasing some knitting talent.  And another fun and imaginative video of knitted characters.  Perhaps you could learn to knit!...or purchase the fine work of those that do for your child!