While these activities naturally support the development of fine motor skills, concentration, hand–eye coordination, and resilience through perseverance amongst many other qualities, at this age, their true value lies in the relationships they nurture. Crafting moments are often shared one-to-one, offering space for meaningful interaction, gentle conversation, shared focus, and the quiet joy of doing something side by side. In these moments, the child feels seen, accompanied, and valued, laying the foundations of trust and belonging. 

During our Parents’ Evening, families were invited to experience this approach firsthand through clay modelling, creating small plates as gifts for their children. In the spirit of our pedagogy, with gentle guidance and largely through imitation and a strong community effort, each adult created something both beautiful and unique for every child in our group.  

In the weeks that followed, the children prepared their Easter gardens in these plates, engaging in the rich sensory experience of adding compost, sowing wheatgrass, and gathering moss and stones from our walks. This week, the children will have taken their gardens home, where they can continue to nurture them waiting patiently for the green shoots to emerge, carrying the promise of renewal and the quiet anticipation of Easter. 

Amelia Errazuriz
Willow Tree Saplings