Mirrors | Day 22 – 30DaysTYP

30 Days to Transform Your Play series

Mirrors add another dimension to learning. They can be used in various ways to enhance play and learning.

Add them to the walls, (at the child’s level, behind a point of interest – toys, a project and/or in a specific area [i.e. the block area]) on the surface of play and smaller mirrors within their play and learning.

On a larger scale, mirrors open up a space and reflect light. Mirrors in displays and at the back of shelves help to create a feeling of light and space.

With regards to provocations (invitations to play and explore); mirrors add beauty as well as encouraging a depth of inquiry. The 3D aspect that mirrors emphasize help children to view objects and play in new and different ways.

I think the use of mirrors in the play and learning environments can support the child’s construction and exploration of their self-image.

Mirrors provide the opportunity for kids to explore:

• symmetry,
• reflection,
• perspective,
• angles,
• their own movement, and
• self-awareness.

Tasks:

1. Add a mirror to a space or two where it could add light and openness (i.e. a darker corner in a play space),
2. Next time you set up an activity, consider using a mirror as a surface or behind the set up,
3. Consider incorporating mirrors in art explorations in the future, and
4. Add hand-held mirrors to your nature tray/shelf if you have one.

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Here is the rest of the 30 Days to Transform Your Play series!