Little bear called Riči

Riči is a little bear who lives beyond three streams and seven mountains. One cold morning, he went for a walk and discovered an old photo, hidden in his jacket pocket. The photo brought back pleasant memories of his childhood and his dear friend Šira. However, all these wonderful memories were locked away in chests. Determined to relive the moments of his youth, Riči decided to search for something that could open the chests and unlock those memories.

Riči’s story guided us on a journey to discover the mysteries and beauty of interpersonal relationships that accompany us throughout our lives. We explored both our own and Riči’s identity, we created Riči’s homeland and delved into the first research question: “How can we unlock the chests that hold Riči’s memories?” The research began with the first chosen material – a key. A key is one of the most common symbols in fairy tales and literature in general, carrying multiple meanings. It represents security and trust and it is closely tied to power and responsibility.

To open such special chests, we needed to discover various forms of wisdom. We believed in ourselves and focused our research on discovering and creating different types of keys. On the pedagogical stage, in a diverse and stimulating environment for imaginative and co-creative playing and learning, a varied and unique collection of keys/objects began to emerge, each unlocking Riči’s memories. These included keys as a tool, keys that open different doors, keys to beautiful relationships, keys for solving various challenges, keys that open the heart, key phrases/words such as please and thank you.

Grateful and proud of the children, Riči, with his sparkle and playfulness, fostered an atmosphere where we could identify and express our feelings while developing an understanding of others’ emotions. We learned to be emphatic, handle conflicts, and adapt to different situations. Additionally, we learned how to build true, warm, and authentic relationships that make us feel safe, accepted, and heard. The children trusted him and eagerly shared their simple, unique, creative and useful ideas and solutions.

The basic idea, plan and purpose expanded and gradually evolved, leading to exploration of new and unique thematic chests – such as language, communication, movement, music and play – each with its own key.
At the end of the school year, we courageously explored the power of keys during Trnovo musical, performing on the grand stage at Križanke. Our dancing and singing performance unlocked all the hidden memories, impressing Riči, the parents and other spectators.

However, Riči’s story does not end here. The revival and creation of new memories have ignited an irresistible desire in Riči’s heart to find his beloved Šira. Will he succeed?