"Like Diamonds Melting"

Children's Play and Learning in Aquatic Settings

Abstract

Children who play with water are in a position to experience first hand the hydrologic cycle. An environment designed for use as a part of an educational process is one such setting. One of the first decisions in a setting of this type is a consideration ofthe size of the facility. The shape, edge and geographic detail are also important. Almost immediately upon initiating a water yard in an educational setting both positive and some negative outcomes are evident. When an educational monitering system can be established as a part of the water environment most negative outcomes are eliminated. Anatural resource center to study interactions between plant, animal, and human cohabitation is possible. The attraction of such a water environment or water yard is dramatic. Number counts reflecthe heavy use that administers hope for when time and effort are expended for educational purposes. Use of the water environment is of particular importance since the educational value and opportunity for skill development provides the rational for establishing the environment. The attitudes of public officials and the processes needed to maintain the facility are also important for consideration.