By Dorian Schilffarth | Early Birds Istanbul Father 2024

Work up a sweat... er, earn your mud hut at Early Birds Istanbul

I was warned that it would be exhausting and dirty, but not that it would be so hot...

At the beginning of June, I noticed an announcement in the newsletter about rebuilding the mud hut in the garden. After talking to Regina, the founder of the kindergarten, it was clear that I could take part in the project. Work began in mid-June, in the middle of a heatwave.

The new mud hut project was led by the EBI craftsman, whom I will refer to as Mr. D., and initiated by Regina, as the old hut had fallen into disrepair and the children had dismantled it. It was time for a fresh start. The companions, the children, and I assisted Mr. D., who appeared to have many roles, including project manager, engineer, and architect.

Communication was difficult because we didn't speak a common language, but we managed with gestures and our companions acting as all-purpose translators.

What materials are needed for a clay house?

As expected, clay was the key material. We mixed clay soil with straw and water on a large tarpaulin. Mr. D. instinctively knew when the perfect consistency had been achieved: liquid enough to mix, but firm enough to work with. We took turns jumping barefoot into the mixture and then pulling on the tarp to bring everything back together for further tamping. Through this process, the mixture gradually moved toward the foundation.

First, we laid a base layer of the clay mixture on the foundation. Then we placed aerated concrete blocks, leaving space for an entrance. The children eagerly shoveled and carried the clay, sweating as they filled and covered the rows of blocks. The second row had gaps for windows.

On the second day, we smoothed out all the edges and cracks. Finally, the children decorated the hut with ceramics and clay. They loved playing in the mud and learned the value of teamwork and careful work to achieve a common goal.

The project ended with a small hut built by the children, ready for play. As the hut is exposed to the elements, it will be ready for the children to dismantle and rebuild next spring.

For future volunteers: Prepare to say goodbye to clean clothes and get up close and personal with mud! You may become the unofficial "mud manager" and find yourself in a wild mud-stomping competition. And don't forget to bring extra energy - the kids won't stop until every last bit of mud is perfectly mixed! Get ready for a messy but incredibly fun and rewarding experience.

If you want to build a clay house, then you've come to the right place !