Many approaches to early childhood education don’t place a major importance on learning outdoors, but nature is an important learning environment for children. “The benefits of connecting children with nature are evident in every area of child development. Nature helps children grow intellectually, emotionally, socially, spiritually, and physically,” writes Ruth Wilson, PhD, in her book Learning Is in Bloom: Cultivating Outdoor Explorations. Make it your goal to take a little time each day to help children connect with the rhythm of nature, especially when they are young. “It’s important for children to connect with their own place, to become familiar with the unique sights, sounds, smells, and cycles of their immediate environment,” states Wilson. Below are three of the suggestions she provides for integrating early childhood environmental education in your classroom.
Not All Classrooms Have Walls
- September 20, 2016