When I was a teacher, stepping outside seemed to be the solution to everything. Kids acting out? Take them outside. Struggling to focus? Get them outside. Feeling overstimulated? Go outside. And even if teachers themselves can’t concentrate, a quick walk outside can help!
The outdoor world is its own classroom, complete with its own teacher and materials. Embrace that! The possibilities are endless. Treat the outdoor environment as you would the indoor.
Prepare children! Introducing new experiences or materials? Teach the children how to engage with them. Play alongside the kids. Games offer numerous opportunities! They allow children to collaborate towards a common goal, fostering teamwork, patience, and rule-following. Again, the opportunities are endless.
Planning a walk? PREPARE them. Safety should always be the top priority! Teach them traffic rules, the meaning of stop signs, the difference between stopping and crossing, and the games like red light green light that help them understand. Encourage them to stay together and follow directions. When you prioritize safety, children begin to trust you. Making them feel secure leads them to want to listen and trust you. Leaving the classroom or school in general is a significant undertaking—it requires a lot of work and dedication—but it is incredibly rewarding in the end. The opportunities are endless.
Outdoor play is a vital part of the day. Being outside offers benefits in many aspects of life. We enjoy fresh air, the chance to move, to be loud, and to tackle new challenges and materials. But there are so many other added bonuses. We have the opportunity to explore new spaces and places, to observe how others live and interact, and to embrace risk and mobility. The opportunities are endless, so what are you waiting for? Get outside!
Check out my first ever children’s book Walking Wednesday available now!
The Transforming Teacher 