Outdoor Learning

Nature-Based Learning

Our morning program is a fusion of our enriching indoor and outdoor environment, with an emphasis on nature-based learning.  It allows our teachers to focus on providing the social, emotional, intellectual and physical development that Playschool is respected for, in the safest, most engaging setting we can provide.  The focus on nature is an opportunity to fully embrace the relationship between our bodies, our minds and our environment. Our extensive play-yard allows groups to experience healthy exploration and interaction within the cohort. 

While outside, classes each have their own semi-permanent, roofed structure with hand-washing and sanitizing equipment. The building is utilized for restrooms, administration, and when weather is unsuitable for outdoor learning. Our teachers go indoors with small groups of children for learning activities.  More information about Covid health and safety measures can be found on our Safety page.

Increased outdoor play has been shown to have many physical, mental and cognitive health benefits for children. Outdoor play and learning has been shown to enhance empathy and connection with others as well as improve mood and decrease anxiety for both children and adults.

Outdoor play and learning benefits include:

• Greater development of fine and gross motor skills
• Longer attention spans
• Decreased hyperactivity
• Increased self-regulatory control (ie. children have less behavioral issues such as hitting or biting)
• Increased sensory development
• Decreased levels of obesity
• Improved mood
• Decreased anxiety

Classrooms

All classes will operate as both indoors and outdoors for five mornings per week. 

Children aged 2 years, 7 months-old through 6 years-old are placed into one of five classrooms:

• Yellow Room
• Purple Room
• Green Room
• Orange Room
• Blue Room/Kindergarten

Daily Program

Each classroom follows a daily routine that includes free choice, group time and snack time. Once a week, each classroom makes their own special snack on cooking day. Each class will create a routine which structures their day outdoors just as it did indoors. For example, some classroom areas will include a firepit, and our workbench will be moved outdoors.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Conferences are scheduled twice yearly to communicate child progress and growth. Teachers are available throughout the year for additional parent communication via e-mail and meetings.