Reflection is the process of bringing the learning home. Reflection circles close the day or activity with a shared story-like experience. According to Dewey, "it converts action that is merely appetitive, blind, and impulsive into intelligent action".
It can be discouraging then, if, at the end of the day or a really hard to plan field trip, a child says the best part of the day was lunch (or art, or gym), especially if it is on a consistent basis.
Rather than being discouraged or dismissive as educators, I would suggest perhaps reflecting as to why those experiences are the preferred times of the day. What sensations are they feeling? Who are they interacting with? Are these times of leisure? If so, do we need to choose healthy leisure activities throughout our lives? How often do we need to engage in a leisure activity to maintain our well-being?
As occupational beings, we need both purpose and leisure for optimal health, therefore we should be reflecting on them at school.
Here is another thought - could the exploration of leisure activities be part of a social studies inquiry? Looking into what kinds of activities are leisure and what supports are needed in a community could lead to valuable community engagement and adults who can make healthy choices.
reference: Dewey, J. (1996). The collected works of John Dewey, 1882-1953. Electronic edition. The later works of John Dewey, 1925-1953. Volume 8: 1933, essays, how we think.
It can be discouraging then, if, at the end of the day or a really hard to plan field trip, a child says the best part of the day was lunch (or art, or gym), especially if it is on a consistent basis.
Rather than being discouraged or dismissive as educators, I would suggest perhaps reflecting as to why those experiences are the preferred times of the day. What sensations are they feeling? Who are they interacting with? Are these times of leisure? If so, do we need to choose healthy leisure activities throughout our lives? How often do we need to engage in a leisure activity to maintain our well-being?
As occupational beings, we need both purpose and leisure for optimal health, therefore we should be reflecting on them at school.
Here is another thought - could the exploration of leisure activities be part of a social studies inquiry? Looking into what kinds of activities are leisure and what supports are needed in a community could lead to valuable community engagement and adults who can make healthy choices.
reference: Dewey, J. (1996). The collected works of John Dewey, 1882-1953. Electronic edition. The later works of John Dewey, 1925-1953. Volume 8: 1933, essays, how we think.