Children thrive outside in nature. As an early childhood special educator, I repeatedly saw the benefits of playing outside for young children. I remember one little girl (I’ll call her Ginny) who had beautiful dark hair and big brown eyes. She also had developmental delays, especially in the area of language. She was quiet and shy, especially in the mornings. When she entered the classroom, she chose to go to the quiet book area and snuggle on a bean bag chair with a book. When it was circle time- which I strived to make fun with music and movement- she sat quietly in her chair, thumb in her mouth and holding her blanket, watching but not participating.
After circle time, it was time to go outside. Ginny loved to ride the “Flintstone” car and started to use word and gestures or signs to ask me to push her around more. She laughed and giggled when we played “Ring Around the Rosie”. She lit up and became alive and happy in a way that did not happen inside the classroom.
The Children & Nature Network recognizes and posts the benefits of nature to nurture children’s growth. Check out their website by clicking on the photo below. There are also resources about caring for nature and our earth.
After circle time, it was time to go outside. Ginny loved to ride the “Flintstone” car and started to use word and gestures or signs to ask me to push her around more. She laughed and giggled when we played “Ring Around the Rosie”. She lit up and became alive and happy in a way that did not happen inside the classroom.
The Children & Nature Network recognizes and posts the benefits of nature to nurture children’s growth. Check out their website by clicking on the photo below. There are also resources about caring for nature and our earth.