What is the primal appeal that young children experience while experimenting and messing about that can completely engage their attention? Might it be the tactile nature of materials? Or the immersion and intersection of the senses? Perhaps the unintended consequences of experimentation or the unpreditcable outcomes of a self-directed activity? Playing around with some simple materials you have at home or might discover outside, can provide a wonderful opportunity to augment your child's experiential education. As children explore materials with delicate encouragement and direction, take a few moments to share some experimentation and laughter together.

This Week's Teachable Moment

A classic play activity to do before it gets too cold: shaving cream and water. Wear old, washable clothes. Bring a can of shaving cream and a jug of water outside. Find an uneven surface and spray, mix, pour, play and make magic. You might even empty the shaving cream container together to see what happens.

For an art experience that's a little less tactile, North Shore Country Day celebrates its homecoming weekend beginning Oct. 1 with a new exhibition at The John Almquist Gallery, named in honor of a faculty member and the head of the art department for 39 years. The show is called Shared Visions, Collaborative Work of the Chicago Art Salon. Be sure to take a bit of time to enjoy one of Winnetka's treasures. 

 The John Almquist Gallery

Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment

The exhibit closes Nov. 5.