A Hole Lot of Learning: the joy of digging

I have been increasingly struck by children's desires to dig a hole. It began in our den building area, where I was amazed by the size and numbers of holes that were created with child-sized trowels and the love of overarm mattocking with anything that was available. The children asked for larger tools and gradually progressed to a small, but adult-sized, spade. This is where the holes became prominent, in five minutes small craters appeared.

I wonder what this love of the hole is all about. It seems to connect with something innate, to burrow a home, a bed, to be held, or perhaps to build a fire or toilet?

Whatever the case, it seems empowering, as an immersive sensory experience and seems to fulfill a deep urge, giving tangible feedback along the way. The child pictured loves to create made-to-measure chairs and beds at our holiday clubs. What more could one ask for?

Disclaimer: some of the holes may need to be partly filled, or reinforced soon to avoid accidents!