The Outdoor Classroom

Page 15

For many teachers recess/outdoor play is considered a break from teaching. This is an important time to interact with the children to mentor physical activity and build relationships in a relaxed environment. It is not a time to chat with other teachers, check a cell phone, or sit on a bench.   

Too many playgrounds are grossly inadequate with little to do but stand around, or climb on a single stationary climbing structure. Children need natural as well as manufactured materials and equipment. Two impediments to creating an outdoor classroom experience is dry, organized storage, and the ability of teachers to re-stack, sort and maintain the play area. Outdoor learning areas should be in place year round, with materials added as needed.

​An outdoor experience needs large areas to run, and smaller areas for rest or quieter activities. It needs places for children to sit and covered areas for inclement weather. The natural playground would include elements such as trees, vegetation, stone, wood, and materials that can be manipulated. These materials might include log pieces, small decks with building materials, stone paths, discovering sand pits and sound walls. 

Course Navigation Menu

1. Course Agenda
​2. How Lifestyle Affects 
3. Children and Nature Now
4. Reflection (1/6)
5. Children & Nature Movement
6. Reflection (2/6)
​

7. Kids and Outdoor Play
8. Kids and Outdoor Play (3/6)
9. What is Nature Deficit?
10. Nature Deficit (4/6)
11. Possible Health Effects
12. Outdoor Environments
13. Nature in the Classroom

14. Classroom Environment
15. The Outdoor Classroom
16. Natural Playscape
17. Outside in Cool Weather (5/6)
18. End of Course Quiz (7/7)
19. Course Evaluation Form​
Parking Lot