Nature is an integral part of children’s learning experience
Totem Lake Children’s Academy believes that children should have continuous hands-on experience with the natural world. Our outdoor time is so much more than “recess.” It provides limitless opportunities for children to learn about their environment and develop a sense of wonder. As educators, we harness these opportunities to further explore what children learn indoors and bring what children learn outdoors in. Our outdoor classroom is designed based on well-researched and field-tested guiding principles developed by Dimensions Educational Research Foundation and National Arbor Day Foundation. Part of their extensive research shows that regular time in nature facilitates improved social and physical development, supports creativity and imaginative play, reduces stress, inspires collaboration and reduces violence and bullying, among countless other benefits.
“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth finds reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” – Rachel Carson, American marine biologist & conservationist
Certification in Progress!
Our Outdoor Classroom is in process of certification by Nature Explore®. The Nature Explore Classroom Certification Program is as national initiative that recognizes schools and other organizations that have made a commitment to providing outdoor classrooms and comprehensive programming to help children use the natural world as an integral part of learning. Learn more at https://natureexplore.org/.
Quick Fact
Children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to become myopic.
One study found that two hours per day of outdoor activity reduces the risk of myopia by about a factor of four compared with less than one hour per day.
Unfortunately, children today spend half as much time outdoors as they did 20 years ago.