Themes should increase a child's sensitivity to the environment and lead into other related experiences. Thematic or planned unit activities need to come to a satisfying conclusion before the children's interest has waned. Bringing people to the classroom is an excellent way to increase children's awareness of the variety of lifestyles and cultures in their community. A sense of belonging grows from firsthand knowledge, so small conducted tours should be arranged to accustom children to the layout of the school building and yard, and to introduce them to the work of various members of the school community. Children can look at the trees, plants, birds and animals, identify them, find out where they grow or live, and try to describe them.
Teachers can encourage the use of senses other than vision.
Children can shut their eyes and listen, trying to identify the sounds around them. They can feel the vibrations made by traffic, people and animals passing along roadways and over bridges. They can feel the difference when walking on various substances. The site should be visited by the teacher prior to the excursion. The purpose of the visit should be defined, through pertinent activities such as discussion, stories, audio-visual resources, etc.