Post on 07-Feb-2016
description
IslandWood
School Overnight Program• Primary focus is to
provide residential learning experiences for 4th – 6th graders
• Project-based field work
• Close year-round relationships developed with partner schools
Graduate Program
• Based on the principle that a more sustainable future demands knowledgeable, committed and reflective educators
• 10 month residency in environment, education and community
• In partnership with UW College of Education
Adult Leadership Programs
• Leadership retreats
• Teacher development workshops
• Hosting the Sustainability Education Summer Institute, July 27 - 29
Using the outdoors to nurture early learners
Kids are drawn to nature.
Skillful teachers can use nature to create powerful learning
experiences.
Connecting to Place
Learning and practicing care
The outdoor classroom is:
• Not recess or outdoor play time
• Nor is it about environmental advocacy
Ecophobia
• Vast global and environmental issues should not be laid at the feet of early learners
• No tragedies before 4th grade
The teacher in the outdoor classroom
How to be outside with kids
• Start small
• Start local
• Focus on Place
Get help and make sure they are
prepared
Plan ahead have the supplies you need on
hand
So, what are we going to do outside?
The outdoor classroom
Build anticipation
• Use a familiar prop that kids can associate with adventure.
• Create a bag or box of surprise tools to explore nature
• Create special places just for kids
• Create rich sensory experiences
• Build confidence and a sense of wonder about the world
Combine music, movement and creative expression
Employ mimicry
Dig things up and turn them over
get dirty
For learning sake, get your kids outside