The outdoor classroom is on the rise. In recent years there has been the rise and rise of Forest School and alongside this an enormous increase in outdoor learning in kindergartens and pre-schools across the world. As this is likely to be an option for your kindergarten or preschool then we thought it would be helpful to outline the main advantages and disadvantages of the outdoor classroom.
Pros:
1. Outdoor Classroom Improves Personal Children Development
Image Credit: Great School Partnership
Children work better in groups when they’re in the great outdoors. They’re not sat in regimented seating patterns – but have a fuller sense of freedom.
Collaboration outdoors can improve emotional, intellectual and behavioural development. Children learning outdoors will help to develop their creativity, problem-solving, independence, confidence and more.
Playing in natural spaces supports a children’s sense of self, allowing children to recognise their independence alongside an interdependence and connectedness with their ecological worlds. Moreover, students demonstrated more positive social behaviour when learning and playing on green school grounds.
2. Outdoor Classroom can Improve Children’s health
Image Credit: Study International
Outdoor learning can improve our well-being – physical, mental and emotional.
The powerful combination of a diversity of play experiences and direct contact with nature has direct benefits for children’s physical, mental and emotional health. Free play opportunities in natural settings offer possibilities for restoration, and hence, well-being.
Outdoor learning has been proven to reduce stress in young learners. Learning environments in kindergarten with a greater number of plants, greener views, and access to natural play areas demonstrated a lower level of stress.
3. Outdoor Classroom Connect Children To Nature
Image Credit: kinderpedia
Humans have natural biophilic tendencies, when we are deprived of these opportunities, negative outcomes can follow. According to reports, diminished use of the senses, difficulties with paying attention and higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses.
Unfortunately, in the 21st century, kids are exploring and interacting with the surrounding natural environment less often. In fact, three-quarters of Singapore children spend less time outside, so there can hardly be a bigger argument for taking learning outdoors.
Learning outdoors can also inspire kids to become physically active in their spare time it can be a great tool in fighting against the risk of childhood obesity.
4. Outdoor Classroom Gives Practical Experience
Image Credit: Rooted Forest School
Whether it’s examining certain types of leaves and species of butterflies, using a compass or starting a gardening project, outdoor learning gives a practical, real-world experience that kids love to soak up.
As well as learning these new specific skills, outdoor activities have broader benefits – problem-solving, thinking skills and teamwork, as well as feeding over into curriculum areas such as mathematics and English.
Cons:
1. It doesn’t suit all children
Image Credit: Tree Canada
It is not for all children. Like any parent choosing a school, make sure you visit your local kindergarten or preschool and assess if you think it will suit your child.
2. Safety and hygiene
Image Credit: Romper
As children spend time outdoors, they are moving more, climb trees and jump in puddles, there is a slightly bigger chance that they get injured. They are also more exposed to potentially unhygienic items. Both of these safety risks are closely managed by kindergarten or preschool.
Outdoor Classroom Furniture
Image Credit: Schoolyard Blog
Deciding which outdoor furniture is best for your classroom may feel overwhelming. It’s important to consider how much space you have and what materials will work the best. Durable wood such as teak lasts for years, but it can be pricey depending on how many pieces you need.
On the other hand, aluminum furniture is sturdy, lightweight and affordable. When buying patio furniture for your outdoor classroom, durability is a top priority. Kids can be tough on furniture, so you’ll want to find pieces that can stand up to constant use. Opt for easy-to-clean tables and seating that resist staining or discolouration. A few functional options to consider include:
Image Credit: Demco Interiors
Benches: Outdoor benches provide plenty of space for several children to sit comfortably. Backless benches tend to blend in more with the scenery, while models with backrests allow students to relax during lessons.
Sectionals: Sectionals provide the perfect spot for quiet reading time or group activities. Many sets also come with coffee tables so that students can have a surface for writing or projects.
Chairs: Outdoor chairs are a versatile option for outdoor learning. Sturdy and comfortable patio chairs are a great way to recreate the classroom environment outside. Folding or stackable options work best for clean-up at the end of the school day.
Looking for a good plan design for your kindergarten? Our experts are ready to assist you!
Speak with The Experts
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Childcare Center Renovation Singapore is a reliable company for renovation and interior design. They have about ten years of experience in this field and also have a good reputation from customers.
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