Chesterfield Montessori School emphasizes the prepared environment, where every element is designed to support a child’s natural development. The outdoors, with its endless wonders, is the ultimate prepared environment, fostering exploration, creativity and physical well-being.
The playground, a miniature world, is teeming with activity. Children are eager to explore its wonders: some examine ants marching in a line, and others chase butterflies and insects. A few collaborate to build structures from collected branches, leaves and pine cones. Some jump in rain-formed puddles, while others dig and gather soil with small shovels and buckets, possibly finding worms.
Every part of the playground offers a new adventure and learning opportunity, as children engage with the natural world.
CMS highlights six essential benefits of outdoor play that are vital for children’s growth and happiness.
- Outdoor play instills a sense of responsibility and respect for nature, as children participate in gardening or caring for animals, understanding the impact of their actions on the environment.
- Playing outdoors fosters independence as children navigate playground equipment or explore a garden, making decisions and solving problems on their own.
- Creativity is enhanced when children engage in imaginative play, such as building structures with natural materials or creating art with leaves and sticks.
- Physical development is supported through activities like climbing, running, and jumping, which improve motor skills and overall health.
- Sensory experiences are enriched as children feel different textures, hear the sounds of nature, and observe wildlife, which sharpens their senses and cognitive abilities.
- Social interactions are promoted when children play games together, learning cooperation and communication.
Examples of Outdoor Opportunities at CMS
- The organic children’s garden provides space for learning, observation and reflection
- Tennis court and basketball court, along with playground equipment designed for each developmental age groups
- Large fields ideal for running and group games
- Composting food scraps and green waste from the classrooms
- Classes regularly go outside for lunch, snack and daily activities
- Morning walks in Elementary where partners of two students are permitted to go for a 10-minute walk within the gates of the school at any time during their morning work period
These experiences collectively embody Chesterfield Montessori School’s approach, nurturing well-rounded, curious and responsible individuals.
Supporting CMS’s Nature-based Learning
As parents, you can create ample opportunities for your child to explore and interact with nature. This can be achieved by visiting various outdoor settings like local parks with playgrounds, community gardens, and nature trails rich in diverse flora and fauna.
It’s important to give children the freedom to take manageable risks, make their own discoveries and solve problems independently. Moreover, you can positively influence children by joining them in outdoor activities, showing genuine curiosity, and demonstrating respect for nature.
Whether you prefer adventure and exploration or relaxation and reflection, it is important to make outdoor activities a regular part of your family’s routine. By seamlessly integrating nature into daily life, you can help your child develop physical skills, unleash their creativity and cultivate a lasting appreciation for the environment.
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14000 Ladue Rd.
Chesterfield,
MO 63017
