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We are one of the few Nationally Certified Nature Explore Classrooms!
As children build with both geometric and organic shapes, they are strengthening mathematical, visual-spatial, and abstract thinking. As children grow and develop they need to successfully master physical challenges in order to gain self-confidence and a sense of control over their environments. Learning how to maneuver their bodies in a variety of settings helps children gain skills that keep them safer. (Dimensions Educational Research Foundation, 2008) |
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Research shows regular time in nature…
1. Facilitates better social and physical development.
2. Improves fitness, motor-skills, and well-being
3. Supports creativity and imaginative play
4. Inspires collaboration and reduces violence and bullying.
5. Reduces stress
6. Creates feeling of empathy for nature-the first step toward developing the next generation of environmental stewards.
1. Facilitates better social and physical development.
2. Improves fitness, motor-skills, and well-being
3. Supports creativity and imaginative play
4. Inspires collaboration and reduces violence and bullying.
5. Reduces stress
6. Creates feeling of empathy for nature-the first step toward developing the next generation of environmental stewards.
Our Outdoor Natural Classroom project originated as an idea submitted with a grant to the WIU Sustainability committee based on our recycling. We educate about the benefits of recycling and making choices today that will benefit the children tomorrow. As a winner for our age group, we received $250 to get the classroom going. Our goal with this project was to use as many natural repurposed items as possible. The stage, arbor, and picnic tables were all made from reclaimed telephone poles. Many of the other items are getting a second life on our classroom.