Minecraft... Discovery continues

A few months ago I believe I wrote about my kids new found interest in minecraft... At the time my focus was mainly on how I could manage the emotions and limits of screen time. Now, things have moved on in our thinking, and the children's connection with it.  We have settled into a way of using it which allows them plenty of time without overly impacting on other activities.  The kids play on it before breakfast and after dinner each day when we are at home.

I have been back and forth in how I think about this... But one thing I have always seen and recognised is that Minecraft gets Evan talking. He will talk easily with fluency to anyone who will listen.  He loves the fact that he has a greater knowledge about this than most people he knows, and that Autumn and his friends defer to him for help.  Because he is so interested in it, his thirst for more is unquenchable, and he seeks to learn more all the time. He finds out new things by creatively interacting within his worlds, reading books and watching a famous minecraft player's videos on YouTube. (Stampycat)

They are both now interested in doing instructional videos which they hwbe both started blogs on... Links to follow.

I have noted his ability to support his friends using minecraft, in an increasingly sophisticated way, and has learned not to simply take over.

Burbage valley

We had the most awesome few days exploring the wonders of Burbage Valley.  Stunning sky, creatures, company and adventures.  Thanks to our wonderful friends for joining us and making the experience so special.

Play

Play is such an important part of kids lives.  I am so glad we have the opportunity to let our kids to spend so much of their time doing so.  It occurred to me, that even though it is the thing Evan and Autumn spend most of their time doing, I don't document or really mention it on this blog. I think the reason is simple, I'm not involved.  I am purposefully not involved in their play.  They don't want me involved, and don't need me.  My role is that of facilitator.  I provide them with opportunities, mainly, rather than specific ideas or stimuli.

Our outdoor space grows by the day as the children spread into the woods behind our house, beyond the badger set. Our garden could easily be described as a complete mess, or unkempt or even a tip.  I beg to differ.  It is an open ended environment in which children can learn, explore, play, cooperate, create, destroy, test, imagine and just be.  I find it easier to let this space be and give it over to them as I don't have to be in it the whole time, and there is much more space.