What does it remind you of?
This post originally appeared in Dr. Rachel A. Larimore’s weekly Samara newsletter on July 12, 2022. If you’re interested in receiving these emails, scroll to the bottom of this page to subscribe.
As I’ve traveled this summer, I’ve been reminded of one of my favorite questions:
What does it remind you of?
This simple question, which can be followed by "Why?" or "Tell me more," requires children to notice without directly asking “What do you notice?” (Though that’s a good question too!)
This simple question also requires higher order thinking to compare, contrast, and connect to children’s prior experience. This also honors their culture and identity in the learning process.
“What does it remind you of?” also allows children to make aesthetic, emotional, or other non-cognitive connections. For example, “This flower reminds me of that time we took flowers to our neighbor.”
This question also helps children to identify patterns across space and time. This includes different ecosystems and seasons.
Finally, I think this question makes the world feel less expansive. While the coast of Maine may be different than my home state of Illinois, seeing the similarities and connections makes me feel less alone. It makes me feel part of something bigger than myself, but also a sense that the world is more alike than different.
If you’re vacationing this week, ask yourself, “What does it remind me of?” If you’re teaching this week, ask a child, “What does it remind you of?” and then see where the conversation takes you…
Keep changing lives,
Rachel
Rachel A. Larimore, Ph.D., Chief Visionary of Samara Learning
About Rachel
Dr. Rachel A. Larimore is an educator, speaker, consultant, author, and former nature-based preschool director. As the founder and Chief Visionary of Samara Early Learning her work focuses on helping early childhood educators start nature-based schools or add nature-based approaches into their existing program. Learn more about Rachel here.
