The Footsteps of Spring: Learning and Growing Naturally at Kamukoti

The Footsteps of Spring – April at Kamukoti Pitäjänmäki

As April arrives, spring quietly makes its way into Pitäjänmäki. The earth awakens, and the air is filled with the fresh scents of soil and budding plants. At Kamukoti, our children eagerly welcome this vibrant season with plenty of outdoor activities.

Spring as a Natural Classroom

At Kamukoti, our educational philosophy emphasizes learning through nature, and spring is the perfect season for children to explore the world around them.

Every day, we take our little learners outside to embrace the wonders of nature. Every week, we go on a trip to nearby forest and neighborhood. They observe how tiny green leaves emerge from once-barren branches and discover the first brave flowers blossoming in the meadows. They feel the softness of fresh leaves, smell the fragrance of spring flowers, and listen to birds singing in the trees.

We guide them to notice seasonal changes through simple interactive questions such as, “Did you see grass?” or “What color are the leaves?” Even if they respond with smiles or gestures, it is their way of learning and expressing themselves.

Through these experiences, we help children recognize seasonal changes while encouraging them to express their observations.

Pictures: Kamu

Springtime Activities

Spring is the perfect season for outdoor activities, and we have designed many simple and fun games for our little ones, such as:

Colors of Spring: Taking children outdoors to find objects in different colors, such as yellow flowers, green leaves, and brown tree trunks, encouraging them to observe with their eyes and touch with their hands.
Spring Breeze Blowing: Playing with light scarves in the wind, helping children feel the gentle breeze and enhance their sense of touch.
Tiny Springtime Footsteps: Letting children walk or run freely on the grass, feel the soft earth beneath their feet, and enjoy the joy of movement.

Little Hands Planting, Nature’s Surprise

Although children aged 1-2.5 years cannot fully care for plants on their own, they can still participate in the planting process! Last month the Kävyt kids chose from a few pictures what they would like to plant this year. They chose cucumber, musk mallow, beet, sunflower, dill and salmon rose. This month, we started cold treatment for musk mallow. With guidance, children put 1-2dl sand into containers (cut into half recycled milk boxes), children hold tiny seeds in their little hands and place it in the sand. Then put some water to moisture sand. Then we left them inside for one week. After one week, we put them in fridge for their cold treatment.

We also planted Easter grass. When the first tiny green sprout peeks through the soil, we will point to it and say, “Look, the little seed has woken up!” Even if they cannot express themselves in words, their smiles and gestures will show their excitement.

Pictures: Kamu

Bilingual Learning Blossoms in Spring

April is also a wonderful time for language learning. At this stage, language learning happens through simple repetition and interaction. For example, when we see a bird, we gently say, “The bird is flying!” while pointing to it. Through mimicking sounds and gestures, children naturally pick up new words.

At Kamukoti, we want language learning to be fun and effortless, our goal is not just to teach languages but to create a natural learning environment where children absorb new vocabulary through interaction and play. The vibrant transformations of spring provide endless learning opportunities, making every day a new adventure.

Looking Forward to More Springtime Surprises

April is just the beginning of spring, and we look forward to discovering more springtime secrets with our little learners. Every exploration is part of their growth, and every day is filled with wonder. And of course the arrival of spring makes it all the more exciting.

Did you love springtime as a child? Share your favorite spring memories in the comments, and let’s continue to embrace the beauty of nature together!