The First Provocation
Even before I visited Reggio Emilia in 2000, I was inspired by a project centred around light and shadows. My first exposure to the Reggio Emilia philosophy came during a talk by Jan Millikan OAM at an AECA forum, where a captivating provocation was shared from the Diana School. The teachers had placed a white semi-circular wall near a window, casting the silhouette of a bird. Soon, the children noticed how the bird appeared to “fly” across the wall. They enthusiastically devised a plan to build a cage to capture the bird. The teachers observed quietly, documenting each moment of discovery, creating a record that showcased the children’s theories and ideas as valuable contributions to their learning journey.
The Magic of Natural Light
My visit to the Infant-Toddler schools left a lasting impression, especially the interplay of natural light throughout the spaces. Sunlight poured through numerous windows, illuminating translucent paintings, intricate mobiles, and natural objects thoughtfully arranged to inspire curiosity. Various light sources—overhead lamps, light tables, and ambient light—created dynamic environments, enhancing imaginative play in the enchanting landscapes crafted from traditional blocks and recyclable materials. The artistic quality and emotional resonance of light in these settings were profound.
Engaging with Light
Returning to my teaching, I introduced a light table and overhead projector, integrating light into numerous activities. Light is an engaging area of exploration, with materials readily available. For example, during a study on the number twenty in Year One, children created intricate designs on the light table as they counted objects, turning mathematics into a creative experience.
Embracing the Hundred Languages
One of my core messages focuses on how studying light intersects with various curricular areas and provides opportunities to embrace the “Hundred Languages” of children. After conducting an author study of Leo Lionni’s “Swimmy,” I suggested creating a shadow puppet show based on the story. The idea sparked excitement and a drama teacher contributed insights on puppetry, mainly shadow puppets. Inspired by a visit to an Imax theatre featuring stunning undersea photography, we embarked on a project to draw the sea creatures, resulting in remarkable detail and accuracy from memory alone.
Scientific Investigations of Shadows
The following year, we engaged in a more scientific investigation of materials. Initial discussions about shadows revealed a range of understanding, prompting outdoor exploration to observe and record shadows at different times of the day.
On a rainy day, when outdoor observations were impossible, we explored transparency, translucency, and opacity indoors using basic materials like cellophane and a torch. This investigation exceeded expectations; children collaborated beautifully, holding the torch and manipulating the materials, producing breathtaking reflections. I was especially struck by the enthusiasm of some children who focused on documenting our findings rather than engaging directly in the experiments.
Discovering the Power of Observation
These experiences gave me valuable insights into why studying light is so enriching. It is accessible and encourages immediate observation, allowing children to adjust their understanding. As we prepared for the puppet show, the children’s knowledge deepened. One child even suggested an innovative use for the overhead projector, discovering that we could project smaller puppets instead of having them hold them up to the screen—a clever solution to space constraints behind the puppetry screen.
Collaborative Creativity Unleashed
In addition to creating puppets, we explored multiple languages to enrich our show. The children collaborated with the music teacher to craft a soundtrack combining music and voice, including original tunes created by the children. They also contributed to the script by writing lines for additional sea creatures not found in Lionni’s story.
A Celebration of Learning
Our efforts culminated in a shadow puppet show that radiated joy and creativity, with every child participating in the performance. This project exemplifies how exploring light and shadow ignites curiosity and nurtures critical thinking and collaboration among young learners.
Through such explorations, we can illuminate the boundless potential of children’s imaginations and understanding.
Lili-Ann Kriegler (B. A Hons, H. Dip. Ed, M.Ed.) is a Melbourne-based education consultant and award-winning 'Power of Play' and 'Roots and Wings' author. Lili-Ann owns Kriegler Education and writes to share the wisdom she has acquired through her training and 30 years of experience in education. She is a child, parent and family advocate who believes education is a transformative force for humanity.
Website: https://www.kriegler-education.com/
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