Enchanted Learning

We may still carry vivid memories of our own childhood imaginations. Swinging through the trees as we walked through a little forest, and setting sparkling lights for fairies when we gazed at the stars in the evening sky.

The truth is, this type of ability is so enchanting and natural that we often only see the fun in it. And that is much of what makes this learning medium so meaningful.

In reality, education is about processing ideas, and living up to our fantasy is the organic ground where our ideas are scattered, nurtured, and allowed to flourish. In our imaginative mind, we are able to use abstract and representational thinking, allowing a chair to become a boat, an empty pot to become a steamy aromatic soup, and a pile of pillows to become a fun wrestling space.

This ability to move from the realm of concrete to that which is symbolic and intangible is necessary to process ideas, consider theories, and process the consequences of actions before acting. This requires planning, regulating, and negotiating. In short, the act of “acting” strengthens the executive functions of our brains.

From day to day friends notice the number of elves on the shelf keeps on growing. We are looking forward to figure out whose elf is coming next.

There is a day when another elf with an initial “R” joins the other elves. Kalyan, with his smart thinking, rises up to think critically when he notices, “Ryan’s one doesn’t have a skirt”.

It is actually the ability to live in the abstract of the pretend world that allows us to function in the symbolism of the written world.

It is not easy for a child to learn that lines on paper can represent words, ideas, and stories.

But for Emily and Kalyan who have created and acted out their own story, or chosen objects as symbols in the story (herself becomes a cat) the leap to reading w a more simple and natural step.

We also begin creating bases for our reindeers using moss and other loose parts. This open-ended learning experience encourages problem-solving, creativity, and sensory exploration. We carefully choose materials, experiment with placement, and share ideas with one another, showing collaboration and respect for each other’s work.

Towards the end of the week, we notice that our elves have left the shelf. Many friends wonder where they go and share our thoughts and questions with one another. ​

To support our understanding, we read the last part of The Elf on the Shelf, where the elf explains that the day before school ends—right before Christmas—they return to Santa, as their job is done.

​​This story helps us make sense of the elves’ disappearance and offer reassurance that the elves have a special purpose and place to return to.

Friends listen closely, make connections to the story, and share our ideas about how the elves are now back with Santa, preparing for Christmas. This moment supports emotional understanding, closure, and comfort, especially as we approach the end of the year.

We create Christmas trees using recycled tissue paper tubes. We explore dot painting using Q-tips as ornaments, carefully dipping them into paint and placing each dot with intention. 

​This learning experience supports fine motor development, focus, and creativity while also encouraging conversations about reusing materials and caring for our environment. Each tree is unique, reflecting each child’s ideas and artistic choices.

As we continue reading The Elf on the Shelf, we learn that once we hear Santa’s bell, the elves will fly back to the North Pole. Shortly after, we hear a bell ringing—and without hesitation, friends excitedly run to the door. When we open it, we notice Santa’s red gift bag waiting for us outside.

We bring the bag inside together, and the excitement in the room is immediate. Friends share smiles, gasps, and joyful conversations as we realize that Santa has left us something special. This moment sparks imagination, wonder, and share excitement, creating a magical experience that bring our group even closer together.

This learning experience supports social connection, emotional expression, and collective joy, reminding us how shared moments can strengthen our sense of belonging and community.

Kindest,
Children & Friends.