At Little Elly, we believe that some of the most valuable lessons extend far beyond the four walls of a classroom. For young children, the outdoors offers an engaging, dynamic environment that fuels their natural curiosity and creativity. That’s why we incorporate a thoughtfully designed outdoor experience into our curriculum, turning nature into a vibrant, hands-on classroom.

Why the Outdoors?

Learning through nature offers benefits that traditional classroom settings often can’t replicate. It enhances physical, emotional, and social skills while encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving. Fresh air and natural sunlight promote health, and studies show that outdoor activities improve attention spans, reduce stress, and boost mood, setting the stage for joyful, productive learning.

Our Outdoor Learning Approach

We integrate outdoor activities as an essential part of our daily routine. These experiences aren’t simply an extension of the classroom—they’re a crucial element of the curriculum, designed to complement and enhance classroom-based learning. Here’s a glimpse into how we take advantage of the great outdoors:

1. Gardening and Planting Activities

• Through gardening projects, children learn about growth, seasons, and sustainability. Tending to plants teaches them responsibility and patience while understanding the natural world. Little ones get to see first-hand how seeds transform into plants, linking this process back to science and environmental studies.

2. Nature Exploration Walks

• Our nature walks spark curiosity as children observe plants, insects, birds, and small animals. These guided explorations help develop observation and listening skills, as we encourage children to engage with the world around them, asking questions and sharing discoveries. Each walk brings a new story, from spotting a butterfly to finding an interesting rock, giving children a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature.

3. Outdoor Art and Sensory Play

• From finger-painting with mud to creating collages with leaves and petals, outdoor art is a fun, tactile way for children to express themselves. Sensory play outdoors, using natural materials like sand, water, and leaves, enhances sensory awareness and fine motor skills. We use textures, colors, and shapes found in nature to expand children’s artistic horizons.

4. Team Games and Physical Challenges

• Outdoor play is essential for developing physical skills like balance, coordination, and strength. Team games and obstacle courses teach cooperation, resilience, and problem-solving. When children jump, run, and navigate physical challenges, they develop confidence and learn to trust their abilities, all while enjoying the joy of free play in a safe, supervised environment.

5. Science in the Open

• The outdoors provides endless opportunities to introduce basic science concepts. Children learn about the water cycle by observing clouds and rain or explore concepts of physics when they build and topple towers in the sandbox. They see science come alive in front of them, reinforcing classroom concepts in a memorable, hands-on way.

The Impact: A Well-Rounded Child

Our goal is to nurture well-rounded, confident children who are ready to take on the world. Outdoor learning promotes cognitive, social, and emotional development, fostering a love of learning and a sense of respect for nature. At Little Elly, we’re proud to provide children with these experiences, as they learn and grow through nature in ways that will benefit them for years to come.

Join Us in the Journey!

We invite you to learn more about our unique approach to outdoor learning. Let’s work together to inspire young minds and spark a lifelong love for exploration and growth!