I have learned a lot so far trying to reconnect students with nature... and much of my learning has been from my mistakes. After attending the Outdoor Classroom Institute, I began to reflect on this journey and have pretty much summed it up here!
Why Bother?
Some of the benefits of students reconnecting with the outdoors include:
- Higher test scores
- Supposedly (in Britain) more children are currently being admitted into the hospital for falling out of bed versus falling out of trees which I just find insane
- It increases their concern and appreciation for the environment
- Increases to self-discipline and self-control
- Improved motor abilities
- Possibly prevents myopia
- May prevent asthma
- Prevents obesity
- Improves cognitive functioning
- Improves academic achievement
- Reduces stress
- Improves concentration
- Improves Classroom behaviour
- Potential to improve symptoms of depression
Some Failures
Weeds -
Lesson Learned - Set up a plan for taking care of the garden over the summer. Perhaps have teachers sign up for one week each over the Summer months, or have parent volunteers do it if possible. Landscape tarp can work well, or use naturalized plants that can survive in spite of weeds and without any watering.
Being a Killjoy -
Lesson Learned: Students need time to explore. Ever give out math manipulatives? Know how you have to give that free exploration for a few minutes? I think the same is required with Outdoor Classrooms. I am going to try a model I call "EAT". Students need to Explore when they first get outside, do an Activity that gets their energy out, and then they can concentrate on the specified Task.
I Forgot About Me -
Lesson Learned: You can only help others if you aren't a crazy mess yourself ;-)!