Outdoor Learning Environments (OLEs) is the new term coined a few years ago. Till now, childcare centers have used OLEs for adding diversity to the playing experience of kids. OLEs connects kids to nature and promote healthy development. This is a practice that incorporates flowers, grasses, trees, shrubs, vegetables and edible fruits. It also brings them close to the Mother Nature and they learn to care about the environment.
Consider an example; four years old kids living in a city haven’t seen an
apple tree. The kid knows the mother buys apples from the supermarket. However,
when he actually sees an apple tree and plucks an apple with his own hands, he
realizes that it is the tree that gives apple and no one should cut that tree.
Therefore, sending children to naturalized kids
nurseries in Dubai Emirates is always beneficial. Here are some points
advocating social, physical, academic and psychological positive impacts of
natural Outside Learning Environments:
Multiple
Development Domains
Dr Stephen R. Kellert
of Yale University in his work “Reflections on Children’s Experience of
Nature,” writes that nature is important to children’s development in every
major way – socially, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually.
Creativity and
Problem Solving
Playing in nature develops creativity, intellectual and problem-solving
skills in kids. They are likely to be engaged in creative forms of playing.
Cognitive
Abilities
Regular exposure to green outdoor enhances kid’s cognitive abilities and
also increases their ability to focus.
Nutrition
Kids showing interest in growing their own food are likely to have more
knowledge about nutrition. They eat more fruits and vegetables, and also
continue this healthy eating habit.
Eyesight
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, kids spending more
time in outdoor settings are less likely to suffer from myopia
(nearsightedness).
Academic Performance
American Institute of Research and many other organizations have
conducted studies to know the effects of natural settings on the academic
performance of kids. It was found that kids scored 27% more marks in science
exams after studying in an Outdoor Learning Environment. Apart from science,
significant improvements have been seen in other subjects such as social
science, math and language arts.
Social Relations
Kids spending time outdoor are better in getting along with others.
Unstructured and free play in outdoors makes them smarter, happier and
healthier.
Apart from these are many other benefits of naturalized learning
environments such as:
- Increased physical activities
- Self-discipline
- Reduced symptoms Attention Deficit Disorder
- Reduced Stress
No comments:
Post a Comment