We asked our wonderful Twitter community what advice they would give to teachers who don’t have much space for outdoor play and learning. Here are five top tips from educators for getting outdoors in the smallest of spaces and wherever you are. Check out the thread for more.
1. “When space was a challenge we grew veg in pots – the tiniest space can be used and everyone is amazed at veg, greenery, insects and food! Outdoors becomes about life, growth, community.” Educators’ Nature Notebook
2. “Planters are perfect for schools with little outdoor space as they can be made to fit any size or shape. Pupils can grow herbs or flowers, attract insects, study life cycles, plant growth, pollination, sustainable food sources, symmetry in nature, plant growth in sunlight v shade.” Nature Friendly Schools
3. “Urban nature is still nature! Examine what is nearby for class lessons. Bugs, rock types, plants/weeds, clouds. Occasionally walk to a nearby park, if possible, or a walk through the neighbourhood to observe urban nature. Fill planters with flowers/veggies/herbs.” Kirsten McKnight
4. “Use the environment around the establishment: environmental signage, road safety, different types of transport, number and letter trails, shape, colour. There’s lots to learn in the real 🌍.” National Network for Outdoor Learning
5. “Go for a walk around the local area, spotting local landmarks then make maps of their walk. Spot places that would be a great habitat for urban wildlife. Take photos of what they find. Get parents involved – some of them may be able to help develop an outdoor learning space.” Claire Pascolutti
What are your tips for getting outdoors to learn as part of the school day? Share them on social media using #OutdoorClassroomDay to appear on our Get inspired wall!
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Thanks for joining the movement we can’t wait to see what you get up to on the day! Please share this with your colleagues and friends to help us make it possible for every child to get outdoors to learn and play every day 🙂 Check out the resources tabs for ideas for the day – and to make learning and play part of every day!
Thanks for joining the movement, we can’t wait to see what you get up to on the day! Please share this with your colleagues and friends to help us make it possible for every child to get outdoors to learn and play every day 🙂
We’ll send you a newsletter shortly. Time to play is critical for every child – share your moments with us by tagging #OutdoorClassroomDay and make every day a day to learn and play outdoors!
Thanks for joining the movement, we can’t wait to see what you get up to on the day! Please share this with your colleagues and friends to help us make it possible for every child to get outdoors to learn and play every day 🙂
We’ll send you a newsletter shortly. Time to play is critical for every child – share your moments with us by tagging #OutdoorClassroomDay and make every day a day to learn and play outdoors!