Garden and Nature Education are effective ways to develop a balanced curriculum focusing on the “whole child”; cognitive development, physical development, social/emotional development, spiritual and creative development. Children learn best when they follow their interests and the teaching team takes the opportunity to allow the child’s observations, discoveries and interests to lead their learning in a natural setting. The whole child approach to learning is an effective way to prepare children for school readiness that isn’t formal academic instruction, however meets the current understandings about how children best grow and develop at a pace and ability that makes sense. Children learn through teacher supported lessons, and child led explorations with experienced staff members who are scaffolding the learning opportunities that gardening and nature provide in only a way that the outdoors can.

Some examples of Garden/Nature learning opportunities:

• Math in the garden
• Music in the garden
• Science extensions and activities
• Nutrition and cooking activities
• Nature Walks