October and November began to feel colder, yet up until the end of October we were still able to harvest vegetables from our garden, and the grass remained green. As the trees began to change color, we took time to observe, explore, and enjoy the seasonal transition, deepening the children’s awareness of nature’s rhythms.

Autumn offered rich opportunities for creative work, and we spent time making art with leaves, exploring their colors, shapes, and textures. We also practiced guided meditations using water and fire, creating moments of calm, focus, and reflection. Whenever possible, we took the opportunity to eat lunch outdoors, enjoying the warmth and colors of the season.

October felt colorful, calm, and gently warm—both in nature and in atmosphere.

January began with challenging winter conditions that required flexibility and adaptation. When outdoor areas were unsafe, we explored the town by bus in small groups, focusing on the journey and observation of our surroundings. The experience concluded with each department creating town maps.

As conditions improved, snow play offered opportunities for movement, cooperation, and sensory exploration. We built a snow castle, sledged, and gathered around a fire to cook popcorn.

Pedagogical reflection:

By responding to weather and environment rather than fixed plans, children experienced learning as flexible, meaningful, and rooted in real-life situations.

February continued with changing winter conditions, requiring ongoing adaptation to snow, rain, and freezing temperatures. Improved conditions in the outdoor house (Úti kjarni) allowed us to introduce carpentry, while rain created opportunities for mud and water play. Children explored water flow using pipes and logs and regularly went on walks outside the playground.

With materials provided by a parent, we built a small winter tent, encouraging cooperation and creative problem-solving. Outdoor cooking remained an important part of the month, with banana and chocolate grilled over the fire. Children also cared for plants in a newly created green area, and older children developed carpentry skills by making toys and a bow and arrow.

October to February

  • Fire-making and outdoor cooking

  • Guided meditation and calm reflection using fire, water, and candles

  • Exploring darkness, light, and shadows

  • Singing and gathering around the fire

  • Making pancakes and grilling bananas with chocolate outdoors

  • Preparing and sharing hot chocolate, warm food, and drinks

  • Carpentry and woodworking projects

  • Making toys, bows and arrows, and handmade gifts

  • Creating candle lamps

  • Nature-based and seasonal art

  • Exploring natural materials, including leaves, colours, shapes, and textures

  • Snow, ice, and mud play

  • Building winter shelters and tents

  • Creating water flows using pipes and logs

  • Observing seasonal, weather, and environmental changes

  • Outdoor walks and exploration beyond the playground

  • Town exploration, bus journeys, and mapping activities

  • Eating and spending extended time outdoors in winter conditions

  • Cooperative activities, problem-solving, and flexibility outdoors

  • Face painting