Fun in the Winter Sun!
Posted by Faith BarbutoI was out for a hike with a friend recently, discussing what a lovely day it was- it was 39 degrees- when we realized our idea of what constitutes outdoor weather has really changed of late! There is a saying in Denmark, “There is no bad weather, just bad clothing!” Here in the Unquowa early childhood department we fully embrace that motto. From Muddy Buddy rain suits to full in winter gear, we have found ways to enjoy our time outdoors no matter the weather! Being outside is a fundamental part of our philosophy and crucial to healthy child development. In my PreK classroom we aim to spend at least 2 hours outside every day- and that’s on a cold day! What exactly are we doing out there? We are learning in the most important way, through play! Children who spend more time outside develop a deeper connection to nature, and are more passionate about conservation. Through imaginative outdoor play students learn problem solving, how to cooperate with peers, gain independence and most importantly how to have fun without an adult leading the activity. Most of us grew up spending most of our free time outside but sadly that is not the world our children live in. I have seen in my years of teaching just how much young children need the chance to be wild and unstructured! Each day my students are learning outside, recent lessons include bird-watching, searching for shapes and symmetry in trees, looking for signs of winter and reading street signs but there are also many opportunities to just explore, observe and just play! This has been a cornerstone of Unquowa education since the beginning and this year students of all grades are outside more than ever. Here’s hoping that when we come out of this pandemic people will still embrace the importance of spending time in the great outdoors!
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