In-service Brings Nature into the Classroom

Part of PIC's fall In-service days included a training focused on deepening children's connections with nature inside the classroom.

Research shows that making meaningful connections with nature promotes the healthy growth and development of a child in areas such as, increasing focus and concentration, promoting a sense of peace and calm, and benefiting children with conditions such as ADHD and autism.

How can we bring elements of the outdoors into the classroom?

Following a discussion of using more natural materials in the classrooms, teachers had time to do hands-on activities. This was an opportunity to use their own creativity and imagination, "play" with materials in new ways, and reflect upon ways to inspire their own children.