Nature Play & Learning Space
An outdoor learning environment connecting children with nature and supporting cognitive, emotional and physical development, the Nature Play and Learning Space provides endless opportunities for children to experience open-ended play that encourages confidence, decision-making, problem-solving, collaboration and so many more intra and interpersonal skills.
All of our First School students are encouraged to engage regularly with the space. Daily schedules are designed with the intention of providing multiple opportunities for classes to spend time outside to explore, experiment, collaborate, and play.
Features of the Space
Each element of the playground is thoughtfully designed to support the First School curriculum and highlight the pillars of early childhood education - social/emotional learning, cognitive development and physical development.
- A sensory garden exposes children to a variety of sights, smells and textures.
- A textured pathway with objects grouped in sets of 10 creates a unique tactile experience and provides a natural exposure to mathematical patterns.
- Musical instruments help children understand that space is three-dimensional by listening for and locating sounds in nature.
- A variety of climbing, sliding, and swinging elements provide opportunities to develop muscle strength and endurance and learn spatial awareness and body control.
The Nature Play and Learning Space officially opened in Fall 2022. Key was thrilled to partner with Nancy Striniste, the founder and principle designer at EarlySpace, LLC to develop and construct this amazing addition to our campus.