Nature Explore Classroom
at Early Childhood Center

 

The Nature Explore Classroom at Early Childhood Center in Omaha, NE has expanded their garden this year by adding six new planter boxes.

Families were invited to help plant the classroom garden. This spring event is always a wonderful way to connect parents, children and staff with nature. Families are also invited to help during summer outdoor workdays.

A stage was added to the Music Area with plans to install a Marimba. A Marimba is inspired by traditional instruments found in South America.  This unique and beautiful instrument features a two-octave range tuned to a C diatonic scale.  The Marimba has 15 keys made from strong Ipe wood held up by sturdy Cedar legs.

Outdoor classrooms change throughout the year with additions of new and unique items. Tools, animals, tree cookies, and mini bricks were added to the Building Area.  Plans are in place to add a Water Feature and a Quiet Area this spring.

Early Childhood Center is asking all of their parents to read Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv and Roots, Shoots, Buckets and Boots by Lovejoy; Gardening Wizardry for Kids by Kite and Sunflower Houses by Lovejoy. 

Staff members at the Center continued their professional development this year by attending a Nature Explore Learning With Nature workshop and Using Your Outdoor Classroom workshop. These interactive workshops emphasize the need for children to have consistent time outdoors with an interested, caring adult and to gain techniques for using outdoor classrooms as an integral part of preschool and elementary children's daily learning.

 

Click here to view photos of Early Childhood Center's Nature Explore Classroom!