Students Learn Better Outdoors!!!

Head Master David Gido conducting an impromptu lesson in the new outdoor classroom

We recently added a proper outdoor classroom in the Flood Garden.  The outdoor classroom will not only serve as a wonderful place to learn but will also create extra classroom space.  We added a used whiteboard and parallel siting space for the children to share their learning in the garden.  Also, with the addition of floor mats, the can transform any empty outdoor space into a classroom.

Many studies show that children learn better outside. According to the National Wildlife Federation learning outdoors has a great impact on student's academic performance.  According to a 2010 report, learning outdoors among many things,

•  improves classroom behavior,
• increases student motivation and enthusiasm to learn
• improve performance in math, science, reading and social studies
• reduces Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• increases scores in standardized tests
• helps under-resourced, low income students perform measurably better in school

 We are anxious to begin taking advantage of the outdoor classroom as a resource and see how it improves our student's learning.  We will keep you posted and show you along the way, how we use this space in our lesson and what our students think about it as well.

The Flood Garden will offer many opportunities for projects, challenges and hands on learning for our students, teachers and parents.  We appreciate any ideas and suggestions from those of you who are already using outdoor spaces to teach young children.

Understanding the challenges of teaching and learning outdoors.