Dawn breaks early in Piombino; the first light of day marks the start of the next six days of observation and participation at the Calamoresca Nursery School.
But first, a warm welcome from Parissa, the lead teacher, who very hospitably comes to collect me and takes me on a short tour of Piombino. She shows me the town centre, places of interest and leisure options for when the day is over.
Now, we head into Calamoresca, where all the staff welcome us with broad smiles. We start by greeting the three-year-olds’ class, moving on to the four-year-olds’ and settling in with the five-year-olds. We arrive just in time for the rehearsal of their play, which they will perform in front of their families a few days before the end of the school year, marking the conclusion of their pre-school years.
The day continues with exploring the playground (a green field with trees and various wooden structures) and discovering our connection with what the environment has to offer. Lunch takes place in the classroom, where each child takes on the role of helper if needed or waits until all their classmates have a full plate. They kindly invite me to the table and explain the features of their cuisine.
The following day, the doors open at 8:00 am for the early risers. They have plenty of time to settle in, using whatever materials they like and sharing the space with children of different ages. When the time comes, the teachers start singing and performing specific dance routines, which the pupils happily join in with. Several of them invite me and take my hands so that I can join in.
The day continues with rehearsals for the play and several attempts at conversation between adults and children; although language is a barrier, it is easily broken down with gestures, smiles and plenty of hugs.
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