Learning outdoors and in nature is a wonderful experience that meets all levels of learning for both child and educator. For families it gives us the opportunity to interact and enjoy time with our children. Not everyone can have the privilege to have a big open outdoor space, or an opportunity to be in the garden, woods or forest. However that does not mean you can not enjoy and learn about nature. Everyone should have even a small opportunity to witness the growth and beauty of nature.

 

In my professional role I have brought nature inside to enjoy and instill wonder. Pine cones, acorns, fall leaves, plants and in the winter time I have brought in snow. Growing a garden can be as simple as using a small planter box, a window box or even a small childs swimming pool. Growing a garden creates curiosity and gives children a chance to taste and eat food that they have grown. If you have space to grow vegtables you can also connect with your community by giving back, perhaps to a food bank or to families in the nieghborhood.

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Visits to a wooded area with trees and open areas can be as simple as a park where you can enjoy a picnic and some games. There are birds, squirrels, chickmunks, and butterflies about. Enjoy the sunshine on your face or perhaps feel the raindrops upon your skin.

 

Into the forest may require a field trip or it could be in your back yard. The forest is usually more dense with trees and streams. There are many learning opportunies in the forest. The sound of animals, the smell of pine trees, the bubbling of a stream. Looking for insects, birds or animal tracks can create curiosity. There are always moments of learning.

Learning Outdoors