The Outdoor Learning Environment

An outdoor environment that promotes learning, exploration, creativity, discovery, gross motor and play has various plants, natural resources and opportunity for active play. This also serves to create a natural link between the inside and outside environments, as school is a place of learning, and discovery both indoors and out.

An outdoor courtyard play environment, just the same as the indoor environment should reflect that of a third teacher. The environment should create a natural flow of play and opportunity of choice. A platform area (and community area) leading from the entrance should direct the play through the physical layout and environment. With the use of plants, synthetic surfaces, or stones pathways can be created to lead to various play experiences, both constructive and productive.

“The layout of the physical space in schools encourages encounters, communication and relationships” (Reggio Kids)

We encourage each Full Day Kindergarten program to use their imagination and the space they have to create something wonderful. Some times the best ideas and journeys are not easy…but so worth it in the end!
Our ideas for our outdoor environment began in 2010 and began two years later with three little trees and LOTS of asphalt. With support from our Ministry, our Administration, our Parent and Family Literacy, our families and our dynamite team of four educators (and a hard working husband- thank you Martin) this is what we have created so far. Note this is just the beginning, and we are just starting to see our ideas coming together, we still have so much in store!

For more information about the important role of the environment both indoors and out please visit our website at;
http://www.journeytogetherfdk.com/environment-as-a-third-educator/