Simply put, nature-based early childhood education for young children (0-8 years old) is where learning occurs in the context of nature. In other words, nature and the outdoors permeate virtually every aspect of a NbECE program.

Outdoor spaces should include a range of different natural features such as sand, soil, grass, a variety of different plantings and trees.

Learning outside supports creativity and problem solving in children, enhances cognitive abilities, and improves academic performance. Studies in the US have shown strong progress in social studies, science, language arts, and math through nature based education programs.

Benefits of Including Nature in the Curriculum Nature also provides other benefits such as: Fostering curiosity, exploration, imagination and patience (something that can be very difficult when you are sitting in a classroom). Exposure to nature also enhances young children’s language development.

5 Tips for Incorporating Nature in the Classroom

1. Bring nature in. Decorate the classroom with pieces of the outdoor world.
2. Display inspiring images of the natural world.
3. Keep books about nature on the bookshelf.
4. Make nature a part of classroom routines.
5. Adjust lessons so that the curriculum is place-based.

Nature is the physical world and everything in it that’s not made by people.

Just about every Montessori classroom has a place for a “Nature Table.” The Nature Table is an attractive arrangement of plants, insects, animals and/or items that the children themselves have contributed to the collection. The objects on the Nature Table are refreshed or changed often by the teachers.

Here are a few ideas of subjects you should incorporate into your outdoor classroom for both younger and older children:

• Math. A math station is a must-have for outdoor classrooms.
• Art. An art station in an outdoor learning space fosters creativity and critical thinking.
• Science.
• Literacy.
• Sensory Play.
• Dramatic Play.

Outdoor education and play support emotional, behavioral and intellectual development. Studies have shown that students who learn outdoors develop: a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making and problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline and initiative.

Activities permitted vary depending on where you are (check the links above) but these are some examples:

• Hiking and camping.
• Hunting and fishing.
• Canoeing, kayaking and rafting.
• Sailing and motorboating.
• Biking.
• Rock Climbing.
• Horseback riding.
• Skiing.

An Outdoor Classroom is a space for children to interact with the natural world through play-based and multi-sensory activities. The goal of the Outdoor Classroom is simple: to increase the quantity, quality, and benefits of outdoor experiences for children!