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ERIC Number: EJ975482
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012-Jan
Pages: 7
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1538-6619
EISSN: N/A
Supporting Whole-Child Learning in Nature-Filled Outdoor Classrooms
Wirth, Susan; Rosenow, Nancy
Young Children, v67 n1 p42-48 Jan 2012
"Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts." This much-repeated quote speaks eloquently to the kinds of life-enhancing skills children develop when they interact with caring adults in thoughtfully designed nature-filled outdoor classrooms. As a network of these classrooms springs up around the country in spaces where children spend their days (early childhood programs, elementary schools, children's museums, arboretums, parks, and zoos), teachers and families are increasingly reporting the positive benefits for children. This is good news in light of recent research that outlines the harmful effects of increased screen time and decreased nature-child connections for too many young people. Early childhood educators can play an important role in providing opportunities for children to connect with nature as a part of daily learning. In this article, the authors recommend that programs that support young children develop a comprehensive plan addressing the following four recommendations: (1) Provide thoughtfully designed nature-filled outdoor spaces that children can use daily; (2) Provide effective professional growth opportunities for staff; (3) Involve families; and (4) Join worldwide networks. (Contains 3 resources.)
National Association for the Education of Young Children. 1313 L Street NW Suite 500, Washington, DC 22205-4101. Tel: 800-424-2460; Tel: 202-232-8777; Fax: 202-328-2649; e-mail: editorial@naeyc.org; Web site: http://www.naeyc.org/yc/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A