Outdoor Learning at Blanchard
Blanchard is blessed with a particularly abundant amount of wildlife and natural space. Our campus includes a variety of outdoor learning spaces as well as access to the Hager Conservation Land. We view outdoor learning as a way to affirm and strengthen our STARR values while providing enriching educational experiences to all children.
The guiding question that drives outdoor learning at Blanchard is: "Why are we trying to connect our students to the natural world?" Our goals include:
* to foster a sense of curiosity, wonder, and genuine inquiry;
* to teach the value of "slowing down;"
* to hone observational skills;
* to practice writing and drawing skills; and
* to promote respect for, and appreciation of, nature.
Classrooms regularly utilize the outdoor classrooms for morning meeting, cross-grade buddy activities, and academic lessons. Additionally, we hold two school wide outdoor learning days each year. On these days, students participate in a range of activities such as:
* journaling and reflection
* creating art and engineering projects
* identifying plants, animals, and habitats
* playing games and singing songs
* going on guided nature walks
* learning with visiting naturalist teachers
* conducting scientific experiments
We hope you can join us for our next outdoor learning event!