The Dimensions Educational Research Foundation offers 10 principles for creating outdoor learning environments.
Examples include:
Lots of activity areas. An entry feature, such as an arbor or path of stones, tells children they're entering a special place. A climbing or crawling area provides physical challenges. A messy materials area lets children dig and explore.
Variety of trees and other live plants. They help children learn about colors, shapes and patterns; observe seasonal changes; and practice taking care of something. Plants also attract birds and insects for children to observe.
Local materials, ideas from children. Using local materials, such as prairie grasses, helps children develop a sense of place and encourages observation skills.
The Early Childhood Center at First Covenant Church has a list of required reading for staff. It's also recommended reading for parents.
On the list:
• “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder,” by Richard Louv
• “Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots: Gardening Together with Children,” by Sharon Lovejoy
• “Gardening Wizardry for Kids,” by L. Patricia Kite
• “Sunflower Houses: Inspiration from the Garden A Book for Children and Their Grown-Ups,” by Sharon Lovejoy
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