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The 10th of the 24 solar terms and the fourth of the summer.
During the summer solstice, the sky is sprinkled with a gentle drizzle, which adds a quiet and poetic atmosphere to the parent-child research activities of the Qingdao Women and Children's Activity Center "Children's Reading Island" with the theme of reading nature with the solar terms. On the morning of June 29th, in the drizzle, the main teacher Jiang Hao led a group of nature-loving families from Huachuan Road Primary School to step into Zhongshan Park and start this journey of exploring plants in the rain, and at the same time deeply feel the charm of the summer solstice and the wisdom of the 24 solar terms.
Raindrops gently beat the ground, casting a thin veil over Zhongshan Park. Mr. Jiang led everyone to the cherry blossom trees first, and the gently swaying leaves in the drizzle seemed to tell the story of the summer solstice. Mr. Jiang explained in detail the growth characteristics of cherry blossom trees and how to distinguish different varieties of cherry blossom trees, so that the children could appreciate the beauty and mystery of nature even in the rain.
Mr. Jiang first explained the origin of the 24 solar terms, which contain a long cultural connotation and historical precipitation, as well as the unique wisdom of the ancient Chinese to observe the changes in natural rhythms and invent the Chinese calendar that has been used to this day.
In the process of exploration, Mr. Jiang also introduced the city tree of Qingdao City, the cedar. He explained in detail the growth habits and morphological characteristics of cedar, as well as its status and symbolism in Qingdao City. The children listened intently, exclaiming from time to time, and their admiration for the cedar was overflowing. Ms. Jiang also guided the children to observe the needles and bark of the cedar, allowing them to feel the power of this resilient plant.
In addition, Mr. Jiang also introduced the characteristics and value of red pine trees to the children. He told everyone that the red pine tree is not only ornamental, but its wood is also hard and durable, making it a high-quality material for construction and furniture. Under the leadership of Mr. Jiang, the children carefully observed the morphology and growth environment of the red pine tree, and developed a strong interest in this proud plant.
Next, the team slowly walked towards the crape myrtle tree (also known as the itchy tree). Its branches are straight, and the leaves tremble gently when touched, like a shy girl, in the name of "itch", showing its playful and agile demeanor. Teacher Jiang introduced the ornamental value and medicinal effects of crape myrtle to the children, as well as the characteristics of plant growth during the summer solstice, so that the children could feel the impact of the changes in solar terms on the natural world through observation.
Walking along the park's paths, everyone was pleasantly surprised to spot a pecan tree. This fruit tree is particularly vibrant in the rain, with lush foliage. Teacher Jiang patiently explained the growth environment and nutritional value of pecans, and combined with the climatic characteristics of the summer solstice, he explained to the children why this is a critical period for the growth of some plants. Under the teacher's explanation, the children learned about the growth environment and nutritional value of pecans, and felt the charm of the summer solstice.
Under the guidance of Ms. Jiang, the children also observed a variety of green plants and learned how to maintain a good relationship between daily life and the protection of animals and plants. Teacher Jiang used a vivid and interesting way to explain the complex plant knowledge and solar term culture into simple and easy to understand, so that the children could harvest a lot in a relaxed and happy atmosphere.
This trip to explore plants in the rain not only allowed the children to get closer to nature, but also allowed them to appreciate the unique charm of the summer solstice and the wisdom of the 24 solar terms under the leadership of Mr. Jiang. Through on-the-spot observation and learning, the children have a deeper knowledge and understanding of the 24 solar terms, a treasure of ancient farming civilization.
Thanks to "Children's Reading Island" for providing us with such an unforgettable learning opportunity, we can taste the beauty of plants and the charm of solar terms in Zhongshan Park with Mr. Jiang in the light rain of the summer solstice. We look forward to meeting again in the coming days to continue to explore the mysteries of nature and the profundity of Chinese culture.
(Written by: Huachuan Road Primary School 2022 Class 2 Parent Committee)
The 24 solar terms embody the relationship between the ancient Chinese and nature, and contain the 24 solar terms and the infinite mysteries of nature that contain the survival wisdom of the ancients are waiting for all of us to discover, observe and learn. The activity is open to children aged 5-12 and their parents, and is also available for appointment by class parent committee.