In the fall of 2011, R. became very interested in Odysseus. We read many different versions of the story and she was taken by the many characters—gods and goddesses, mortals, and monsters alike—and their adventures: love, war, disguises, trials and escapes from danger.
At the same time, we found Elizabeth—our new childcare provider extraordinaire. Elizabeth has a background in art, and is in the process of getting her teaching certificate. She gets along splendidly with R., and their time together has been much more than just baby-sitting.
It clicked that Elizabeth would be the perfect guide for an odyssey of our own.
A little background: A number of years ago, Scott and I were completely enthralled as our friend Helen told us about her experience teaching The Odyssey to small children in her classroom in Iowa City. The type of approach she used seemed a great way for kids to fully explore classic literature. (Thanks Helen!) Last year, in a very Reggio Emilio inspired way, R. formed a deep and lasting relationship with A Midsummer Night's Dream. We read many versions and adaptations of the play, did art, saw dance and theatre performances, and made costumes. When her interest shifted to Odysseus, we thought: Why not take her interest to the next level and create a child-led learning experience with other children?
So off we go!
We've invited a number of other children to join in. Next Wednesday kicks off the Odyssey odyssey. We will be posting weekly, so that when we are lost in our journey at sea, we can look back to see from where we've come.