By Rosa Torres
As many of you know, this year at Tinkuy we opened the Studio Explorer—our group of Pumas aged 1 to 3 years old who are beginning to discover the world. Their presence has brought new dynamics to our community, especially for the Spark Tribe.
What do we mean by these “new dynamics”? Let’s remember that “Tinkuy Marka,” in its Quechua origin, refers to the meeting of two rivers, as in two paths, or two communities.
Today, I want to use that symbolism to describe the evolving relationships that are forming through care, play, and all the challenges that come with them.
On a typical day, the Spark Pumas finish their daily goals and enter their free time (moments for play, reading, or other activities). And lately, something magical is happening: several Pumas are drawn to the Explorer Studio. They peek in, and just like that, the rivers meet. Spark Pumas quietly observe what the Explorers are doing. They ask their guide for permission to enter, take off their shoes, and sit near the younger children.
After a few glances and silent exchanges—perhaps sharing a toy without saying a word—the Spark Pumas begin to propose games to the Explorers. In doing so, they start to realize what it really means to mentor a younger child.
The games they offer often include multiple steps, complex rules, or role play blended with symbolic play—fitting for their age. But the Explorers play differently: they tumble on the grass, explore textures, laugh freely, and rarely follow the same structure or pace.
Within these encounters, moments of care also emerge. Spark Pumas help the Explorers wash their hands, set the table, and prepare their food containers. Sometimes, they want to do everything for them, and we gently remind them to let the Explorers practice too. Those are the moments when Spark Pumas draw on their own memories of being cared for—and they allow the younger ones to walk their journey at their own pace.
The Spark Pumas often imitate the Guides: they pretend to be Guides themselves, leading lunch routines with the Explorers, singing with them, reading them stories, and sharing their own.
Through these shared moments, we see how they have internalized the words and actions modeled by their Guides, which reflect in the way they care for the younger children. They are mirroring the affection they receive.
This meeting of two rivers allows the Explorers to learn through imitation of the older children. They begin developing early social skills and gain confidence by having role models around them. For the Spark Pumas, it’s an opportunity to build empathy, responsibility, leadership, and patience. They also deepen their own understanding by explaining it to others.
At Tinkuy, this connection fosters a sense of community and collaboration—where children learn to respect and support one another.
