Outdoor Learning- Fresh Air Thursdays

Each Thursday we will be taking our learning outside! There is a lot of research about the benefits of being in nature and learning in the outdoors. It builds a stronger connection to the environment and increases an appreciation and respect for nature. It improves academic achievement through experiential learning and direct observation. It improves creativity, critical thinking and problem solving skills. It improves health and well-being. It reduces stress. It increases patience, self-discipline and capacity for attention. It develops stronger social and team work skills. It increases self-esteem and it reduces challenging behaviours. We work on gross motor skills, balance and our vestibular system which is linked positively to gains in focus, attention and academics (such as in letter formation and tracking during reading). There are also strong Indigenous roots to this type of learning on the land. This outdoor learning helps us to gain appreciation and a first-hand perspective of First Nations knowledge, “There is a teaching in every part of creation. It is our task to find it, learn it, and apply it.” – late elder Ken Goodwill (First Nations University of Canada, n.d.)

Forest based nature schools have embraced experiential outdoor learning through play and discovery throughout the world. Although, we don’t have access to a forest, we do have lovely outside areas to explore in our school yard. We are endeavoring to spend time outside each Thursday learning in the outdoors and we are calling this outdoor exploration, Fresh Air Thursday. We will be looking closely and honing observation skills, exploring the seasons and engaging in outdoor literacy, numeracy and creative activities.

We will continue this outdoor learning throughout the seasons rain, snow or shine. So please dress your child appropriately each Thursday!