Outdoor Learning Opportunities: Bringing the Classroom Outdoors

Throughout this advanced training, participants will discuss in depth the importance of outdoor play for young children.  Participants will also discuss research that indicates the reasons why children are not being encouraged to play outdoors as much as in the past.  Through large and small group discussion, pictures and descriptive outdoor play scenarios, participants will be exposed to many innovative ideas to bring the indoor classroom environment outdoors including such ideas as dramatic arts, visual arts, musical opportunities, nature journaling and planting a garden.  Participants will also be introduced to the Preschool Outdoor Environment Measurement Scale (POEMS) which was designed as an assessment tool for those seeking ideas for high-quality outdoor learning environments.