On Saturday, the members of Group 3 from Kaposvár had many exciting and interesting tasks awaiting them. First, we worked together to create the group’s “Code of Conduct,” where everyone could suggest what behavioral standards they expect from their peers, their mentor, and, most importantly, themselves.
Afterward, for some physical activity, we gathered the ripe and fallen fruits of the wild citrus tree in the garden. The children had the chance to taste the sour fruit, which many found enjoyable. Anyone who wanted could take some of the lemons home to make lemonade, and by planting the seeds inside, they could grow their own little plants.
Later in the day, as part of the Natural Sciences project, the children attended a presentation about the Universe, the Solar System, and, within it, our home—the planet Earth. We discussed the effects of the Sun on life on Earth, as well as the differences between Earth-like and Jupiter-like planets. The most exciting topics for the children were the phenomena created by the Earth’s rotation and orbit, as well as the effects of our celestial companion, the Moon, on life. After the presentation and watching a short film, everyone created their own planet. This could be a real planet from the Solar System or an entirely made-up celestial body of their own design. In addition to creating their own planets, the children described all the features of their celestial bodies, from their formation to their ecosystems.
During the morning, an unexpected guest also visited the Community House’s courtyard. While we were engaged in our activities, we heard a strange, laughter-like sound. As we searched for the source, we were surprised to spot a green woodpecker in the yard through the window. This protected bird was likely not drawn by an interest in planets but rather by the insects in the grass, which it enjoyed eating. The children decided that in the future, they would keep an eye on the birdlife in the garden and place a bird feeder there when winter comes.
Before heading home, the children tidied up and cleaned after themselves, leaving the house in the same condition as when they arrived in the morning.
Dániel Varga, Mentor