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Happy Midsummer!
The research is clear: nature is the place that helps all humans feel more relaxed, engaged, and happier. The primary goal of this newsletter, for both children and the adults who care for them, is more time in nature.
Outdoor play is so much more than recess, or a "break" from the indoors. Playing outdoors offers benefits that are not possible indoors, so the more time we all spend outside, the better!
For some people, however, it takes a mindset shift to contemplate the outdoors as a learning environment in its own right. Furthermore, many ECE training programs do not offer specific education on the unique benefits of outdoor play, or the planning and preparation of outdoor learning environments (OLEs). Given the research that supports the essential benefits of time in nature in all seasons, this newsletter offers actionable ideas, resources and research that supports child-led play and nature connection for educators and families in ELRCs 8, 9 and 10.
Please read on to learn the benefits of messy play, and how simple and inexpensive it is to add an outdoor kitchen (with or without the mud!) We hope you'll sign up for the Summer 2023 Outdoor/Mud Kitchen Challenge, where we offer free resources and support so the children in your care can quickly begin enjoying the joy and many learning benefits of this easy addition to your outdoor play area.
If you haven't already done so, please click the link below to receive our monthly newsletter. If you're really ready to dig into nature play, consider the free coaching and professional development that Community Connections for Children offers early learning providers in ELRCs 8, 9, and 10 (details below).
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