Click the link below a look at a short (3 minute) video showcasing the first year of Nature-based Kindergarten:
https://quik.gopro.com/v/gRXkOCLEOv/
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Setting up the Outdoor Classroom
Last spring, I wrote a grant through the Prior Lake-Savage Education Foundation. My goal was to create an outdoor classroom space that I can
use daily with my Kindergarten students.
I created a variety of outdoor stations, as listed below. The outdoor classroom helps students
develop creativity, imagination, cooperation, and independence. Children learn through inquiry-based
learning, play, exploration, story telling, drawing, cooking, and studying
nature. I have consulted many resources
on the benefits of young children being outdoors for large amounts of
time. Some of the benefits include
improved cognitive function, self-discipline, increased attention for all students
including those students with ADHD symptoms, and better standardized test
scores.
Here are the components I've incorporated in the outdoor space at WestWood:
Forest Theatre- a space for kids to perform songs, dances, plays and also a spot for the class to meet to share discoveries and read stories.
Dig Pit & Mud Kitchens- A spot where students are always cooking up something new! Here students enjoy imaginative play with dirt and water--from mud pies to fresh salads... students love the opportunity to play and imagine.
Stump Corner- This is where we gather to hear stories and lessons and also for Morning Meetings. We also share our observations and discoveries made outside.
Water Pump- Water is definitely a favorite... students love the pump and water provides endless fun in the outdoor classroom.
Large Sticks for Building- The students love to build forts and structures using the large sticks.
Scale- Here students explore mathematical concepts by weighing various nature objects.
Outdoor Easels- Students will have the opportunity to be inspired by nature to draw and paint outdoors.
Sound Wall- Here students will be able to explore concepts of sound and create their own music using recycled objects.
Planters- Students will be a part of the planting and growing process as they will plant and care for the plants growing in our planters.
Here are the components I've incorporated in the outdoor space at WestWood:
Forest Theatre- a space for kids to perform songs, dances, plays and also a spot for the class to meet to share discoveries and read stories.
Dig Pit & Mud Kitchens- A spot where students are always cooking up something new! Here students enjoy imaginative play with dirt and water--from mud pies to fresh salads... students love the opportunity to play and imagine.
Stump Corner- This is where we gather to hear stories and lessons and also for Morning Meetings. We also share our observations and discoveries made outside.
Water Pump- Water is definitely a favorite... students love the pump and water provides endless fun in the outdoor classroom.
Large Sticks for Building- The students love to build forts and structures using the large sticks.
Scale- Here students explore mathematical concepts by weighing various nature objects.
Coming soon... (Spring 2016)
Outdoor Easels- Students will have the opportunity to be inspired by nature to draw and paint outdoors.
Sound Wall- Here students will be able to explore concepts of sound and create their own music using recycled objects.
Planters- Students will be a part of the planting and growing process as they will plant and care for the plants growing in our planters.
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