Why Go Outside?
I love the beginning of a new school year. Everyone (teachers, kids, and parents) have a clean slate.
It’s a time to approach learning with fresh energy and new perspectives — it’s a great opportunity to establish a regular routine of going outside.
Why Go Outside? Simply put—it can improve both classroom learning and classroom behavior.
There is no doubt that as a teacher, you get pulled in many directions as you try to offer your students the best possible educational opportunities. It’s a balancing act – you have to make some tough choices about how your students spend their time.
That’s why it’s worth remembering that a variety of research has shown that creatively engaging children with the natural world on a regular basis can make a huge difference in their health, well-being, and ability to learn.
- Students who spend more time outdoors in natural areas are more motivated and enthusiastic about learning. Their academic achievement is also higher across multiple subject areas.
- Having a natural view from a classroom makes a difference – it positively impacts both student academic achievement and behavior.
- Students’ classroom behavior is better when they have recess.
But when you can’t go outside, you can use books to foster an understanding and appreciation of nature.
This week’s featured book is Noisy Bird Sing-Along. Bring the outdoors inside using this free downloadable lesson, called Dawn Chorus.
This lesson is aligned with both Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards.
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