Nature-Based Learning

 

At Virgina Chance School, we agree with our Scandinavian friends when they say, “there is no bad weather, just bad clothes.” Think about the last time you were in nature, taking a hike, walking, or riding a bike. How did you feel after that experience? If you’re like me, you may have felt simultaneously more calm and more energized. The day's troubles magically faded away, leaving a sense of peace that all would be well. The physical, social, and mental benefits of being outside are plentiful for young children too.

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) a few of the benefits of being outside are:

1. It invites children to learn about science
2. It creates opportunities for social interaction and collaboration
3. It promotes physical health
4. It invites new contexts for learning
5. It promotes better sleep
6. It gives children a chance to take appropriate risks

 

Since young children learn through play, what better place to explore, investigate, and question than nature? Here are some ideas for playing in nature as a family:

1. Use the natural environment to build and create. Mud, leaves, sticks, and acorns can quickly turn into a mud kitchen, a castle, a fairy house, and much more.
2. Bike, hike, scoot, walk around your neighborhood, or explore a new part of Louisville by visiting one of our beautiful local parks.
3. Grab a blanket and enjoy a good book or a picnic.
4. Schedule parties and playdates for outside locations.

 

 

For a successful experience, planning and thinking ahead before getting outside is best. It's a good idea to have spare clothes available for children, no matter their age, during outdoor activities. Think about keeping a full change of clothes in your car or in your on-the-go bag. For warmer days, we’ve found that water bottles, closed-toed sandals, sunscreen, and bug spray will make the day more fun. While on cool, cold, or rainy days, think about layers, water-resistant clothes, boots, hats, mittens, and extra clothing changes. On cooler days, those cozy moments with cocoa and kid-approved hand warmers will feel even better.

Don’t let the change of seasons keep you indoors. Remember, snow happens! Rain happens! Seasons and weather provide different types of adventures for children to play, learn and grow. So, one final thought - mood follows action. Go ahead and get outside, even if staying indoors seems oh-so-tempting. You won’t regret the experience or the memories.