Child’s Play outdoor classroom certified with Nature Explore

For the fourth consecutive year, Nature Explore has certified the outdoor classroom at Child's Play by the Bay, a small, locally owned preschool and early child development center in Lewes.

A Nature Explore Classroom is a dynamic, nature-based outdoor space developed by research-based, field-tested design principles focusing on youth education and whole child development. These classrooms allow children to explore and develop a connection to the natural world through engaging in open-ended play while enhancing the physical environment and adding to the natural beauty of a space.

"We are very proud to continue to offer an all-natural outdoor classroom learning experience for young children," said co-owner Alisha Fletcher. "Parents choose Child's Play knowing that their child will spend a significant part of the day in the outdoor classroom making important natural learning connections."

Research shows that children need authentic connections with the natural world as a regular part of healthy growth and development. There is a growing concern that today's children are not getting adequate access to nature. Many lead overly scheduled lives with decreased time spent outdoors exploring nature, and more time spent indoors or on playgrounds devoid of rich sensory experiences. This disconnection results in increased childhood obesity, reliance on behavior-regulating medications and a dislike or even fear of the unknown natural world.

"Being in the outdoor classroom increases children's attention spans, and expands their creativity and imagination. Not to mention the daily real-life connections that are made. They are learning the names of the birds while watching them build their nests and feed their babies. Kids count how many tomatoes are growing on each vine and watch flowers to see which one will bloom first. The conversations and learning opportunities are different every day," said preschool teacher Leslie Caruso.

"One of the most significant findings of Nature Explore's research shows that when children are engaged in authentic play, they are developing skills in a variety of domains simultaneously," said Fletcher. "Research shows that direct observation of children's work over time provides evidence that children are developing these foundational learning skills as they explore outdoor classrooms."

As part of the recertification process, Child's Play is required to provide teachers with professional development focused on nature and the outdoors. In September, the Urban and Community Forestry Program will present a Project Learning Tree module to teachers. After staff complete the training, Child's Play will apply to become a Project Learning Tree GreenSchool.

Ashley Peebles, Delaware Forest Service education coordinator and Project Learning Tree coordinator has toured the campus of Child's Play and is excited about the potential partnership. Peebles said, "Child's Play really understands the importance of creating opportunities for young children to make a connection with the natural world around them. Project Learning Tree's curriculum for early childhood integrates nature-based exploration, art, literature, math, music and movement, and outdoor play into existing programs. Once a PLT GreenSchool, Child's Play will join a network of educators and facilities throughout the nation who make nature integration a top priority. They will also be eligible to compete for funding to enhance their program."

"At Child's Play, teachers can count on annual professional development about the importance of young children playing in nature. Ongoing learning about how to best facilitate children's learning in nature is top priority," said preschool teacher Heather Clark.

For more information, call 302-645-2153 or go to www.childsplaylewes.com.