A new tool is here!

Recently, children in EY1 and EY2 discovered that the white glue or paper glue they usually use could not fix two thick cardboard pieces together when they were building a bridge for Huili bear. They urgently needed a new tool to reinforce the bridge.

The teachers promptly uncovered a huge challenge in front of the children. They introduced the hot glue gun to the children and demonstrated how to use it. When the children saw Ms. Jo about to touch the front of the glue gun, they anxiously reminded her based on their own observations and life knowledge: "No! It's too hot!". Then, the children thought of wearing gloves to protect themselves from being burned. They opened their small hands, found and aimed at the finger holes on the gloves, and inserted their fingers one by one.

The children couldn't wait to start trying out this new tool once they had prepared themselves with safety measures! Next, the children decided to decorate the bear's house with various materials. They followed the rhythm of - Choose the materials, apply glue, and stick them together.

When they encountered difficulties, like being unable to squeeze out glue or finding it hard to hold the gun, they tried different methods to improve their grip and balance. Through trial and error, they learned to persevere and overcome challenges.

Applying the glue correctly was a new challenge for them. They had to estimate the amount required and regulate the pressure on the trigger to avoid over-gluing. Nevertheless, they did not give up easily and continued to improve their skills. We were impressed by their determination and attention to detail.

Sometimes, things did not work out as planned! Sometimes we squeezed out too much! However, the children did not give up easily. They tried different solutions, such as choosing larger materials, placing their fingers carefully, or applying glue to the materials before pasting them onto the paper. With each failure, they learned how to reflect and find alternative strategies to improve their outcome.

Some adults may think that it is risky for children to use a hot glue gun. At Huili Nursery, every teaching activity is supported by a comprehensive risk assessment mechanism. Before starting any activity, teachers fully consider every potential risk. As mentioned earlier, when children have established their awareness of risks, teachers fully trust each child to try and experience with confidence. Perhaps there will be failures and setbacks along the way, but when children bravely try and achieve success, their confidence and sense of accomplishment will also increase. We believe that in this kind of environment, children gain more firsthand experience and grow authentically.

If you would like to learn more about Huili Nursery Nantong, please get in touch with us using the links below. Our Co-Heads of Lower School would be delighted to welcome your family to the Nursery for a Day Pass experience so your child can participate in our wonderful learning opportunities with current Nursery students.