The place of the out-of-doors as a laboratory for teaching children is examined in this book intended for elementary school teachers and other professional workers in social agencies. Outdoor activities conducted in school yards, community parks, and school campsites are described. The relationship of outdoor activities with respect to academic potential and social and emotional development is explored. The changing relationship between man and the land is traced. A brief historical description of the development of outdoor education is included. Outdoor projects related to science, social studies, language arts, physical education, and fine arts are analyzed. The development use, and administration of outdoor laboratories and school camps are also traced. A discussion of the trends and issues in outdoor education concludes the book. (SW)