To create such an environment we followed several principles. We used local natural resources, such as driftwood, river boulders, native plants and tree logs to create a child’s space that is open-ended, simple, and has a flow from one area to the next. This outdoor area has been integrated with the indoor classroom, creating one sense of place and identity, reducing any transition that may take place between the two areas with an uninterrupted in/outdoor flow. This allowed the children to become engaged in meaningful and bigger activities. They are allowed to take parts of the outdoors inside and to take parts of the indoors outside. Given them this time and space has given them ownership and a sense of belonging.
The key to the success of our outdoor environment is preparing our environment with purposeful, engaging activities that are hands-on, real and practical. We have structured the environment in such a way that children can make discoveries on their own. Montessori uses the term "prepared environment". This refers to an environment that is designed to facilitate maximum independent learning and exploration by the child. Such an environment provides a variety of activity as well as a great deal of movement. Tools, materials and activities are placed outside on designated shelves, they are in order and they are aesthetically pleasing. At all times, children have access to these tools and activities. Gardening, animal care, nature discovery and physical activities are incorporated into the living landscape.
Once the environment became more established, sustainable practices, such as recycling, catching rainwater, wormery, composting, and waste reduction followed as children started to take care of their environment. Earth stewardship is an important goal of the outdoor environment at Tawa Montessori. It is so important that it is integrated throughout our whole preschool programme and it is an important part of our school’s philosophy.
Together we share and celebrate our discoveries and accomplishments in a community of respect, – respect for the teachers, respect for the children, respect for the living things, respect for the materials and for all work in progress. You can follow our ongoing journey in this blog.
