MattLands

Learning Goals: Literacy, Read Aloud, Oral Language Development

Read, “Mattland” by Hazel Hutchins, a story about young children creating their own imaginary worlds through found materials in outdoor play.

Then, bring the class outside to inspire children to create their own "Mattland".

Give each child a hula hoop to create their own imaginary world.

Guide the construction of children's imaginary worlds by asking open-ended questions that encourage children to reflect upon what they included in their "Mattland" and the significance of these objects.
Mattland by Hazel Hutchins

Hula hoops

Found objects
The educator came up with the idea (chose the story, led a read aloud, brought the children outside to create their own imaginary worlds), the children had full control over the construction of their "Mattland". The play was mutually-directed.

Implementation