Tools & Trainings
Take a guided interactive virtual tour of an outdoor learning environment at a real child care center with labels marking key elements to promote learning and engagement. There are also videos by the Natural Learning Initiative linked to the labels to explain the purpose of each outdoor feature. Program staff can use this tool for inspiration on how to design their outdoor learning environment.
This checklist can be used for self-assessment by a director or classroom teacher as well as the mentor to determine what elements may be needed to provide a high-quality learning environment. Some items may not be required for Texas Rising Star but are indicators of high-quality learning environments.
This planning form helps programs identify indoor and outdoor interest areas and the real objects provided in those areas. Use this form with teachers to reflect on what’s currently available and what improvements can be made.
This publication by Green Schoolyards America promotes the importance and benefits of nature play for young children. Program staff can utilize the recommendations and examples for designing their own outdoor learning environments in a safe and resourceful manner.
This guide lists different types of activity settings and design considerations for outdoor learning environments. Each activity setting is accompanied by a picture to illustrate how the setting can promote learning and interactive play. Program staff can use these guidelines to incorporate common natural elements into an interactive outdoor learning environment for children.
RESOURCES
Select an assessment measure to explore examples, activities, and tools that support quality improvement for that measure.
Outdoor Activities
This video includes a collection of photographs of outdoor learning environments. Notice how these toys and materials support learning in small groups while reinforcing what children are learning indoors. Note: This video has no audio.
Appreciation of Nature
This video illustrates materials that support exploration of infants in an outdoor learning environment through a collection of labeled photographs. Note: This video has no audio.
This publication by Penn State Extension discusses the benefits of incorporating natural elements in children’s play and how providers can set it up. It also includes pictures from classrooms as examples.
This outdoor environment provides children with plants and dirt to encourage them to play and interact with nature. Here, they can plant seeds and care for them as they grow into plants.
Children can appreciate nature in these outdoor spaces. In one area, they can play and interact with sand; in another area, they can explore landscaping items like pebbles and rocks.
Equipment and Materials
This video illustrates materials that supports children engaging in physical activity in an outdoor learning environment through a collection of labeled photographs. Note: This video has no audio.
This engaging play structure provides many opportunities for children to move, crawl, and twist. This structure also provides additional shade while children are playing.
Infant Outdoor Learning Environment
This video illustrates materials that support exploration of infants in an outdoor learning environment through a collection of labeled photographs. Note: This video has no audio.
This outdoor environment for infants has several developmentally appropriate materials. There are balls, play mats, and rattles for the baby to explore outside.