Outdoor Learning Environments

Study Notes

Outdoor environments can increase physical activity in children, as they tend to be more energetic when outdoors.
Getting kids outdoors for long periods of time can lead to higher physical activity energy expenditure.
Outdoor environments provide opportunities for children to engage with food cycles, promoting healthy choices and learning.
Well-designed natural learning environments can encourage children to participate in the continuous food cycle, promoting awareness and engagement in learning and healthy choices.

The language describing outdoor spaces in North Carolina has changed to reflect the richness of natural settings.
"Outdoor Learning Environment" is now the official term used in North Carolina, acknowledging the outdoor environment as a serious educational resource.

Outdoor environments provide a space for children to learn, have fun, and develop physically, emotionally, and cognitively.
Children's interests are encouraged in outdoor environments, allowing them to discover and pursue their passions.
Spaces that eliminate the distinction between indoors and outdoors can be effective in promoting learning and play.

Outdoor environments provide diverse and complex spaces that afford incredible physical movement opportunities.
Children develop body awareness and negotiate spaces with uneven terrain, rocks, and varying heights.
Outdoor environments promote physical development in various ways, including movement, curiosity, and exploration.

Outdoor play provides a safe space for children to make decisions without direct adult intervention, fostering decision-making skills and autonomy.
Children develop problem-solving skills in outdoor environments, encouraging critical thinking and independence.
Outdoor play builds self-confidence in children as they successfully navigate challenges and overcome obstacles.

Outdoor environments are rich in opportunities for curiosity-driven learning, encouraging children to explore and investigate their interests.
Children set and work towards achieving their own goals in outdoor play, teaching them about goal setting, perseverance, and achievement.
Intrinsic motivation is fostered in outdoor play, as children are motivated by the activity itself, rather than external rewards or pressures.