Amy & Kids Co. Nature Playschool
We continue spending time outdoors nearly every day, year-round. No matter the weather, the children are comfortable in the outdoor gear my program provides. From snowy adventures to mud puddles and lazy summer picnics, the children have plenty of space to explore, relax, and learn through play.
Since the outdoor classroom has been working so well, we didn’t make any major changes this past year. Instead, we focused on keeping the space comfortable and inviting. We refinished the wooden furniture and equipment, added a new canopy on the patio for much-needed morning shade, and upgraded our napping tents to a better style—now the children can nap outside without being bothered by mosquitoes, and I have an easier time setting up and putting away the tents.
The children’s herb garden remains a favorite spot. They help plant, care for, and harvest the herbs and are welcome to nibble anytime. Sometimes we bring herbs inside to sprinkle on lunch—it’s a simple way to help the children learn where food comes from and encourage them to try new flavors.
One of the things I appreciate most about the outdoor classroom is how it supports whole-child
development. The children gain independence, take appropriate risks, and have space to move their
bodies—running, climbing, digging, building, and sometimes getting quite messy. Big body play, sensory exploration, cooperation, and problem-solving happen naturally here. Whether jumping off stumps, harvesting herbs, splashing in puddles, or settling in for naps under the trees, the children are learning, growing, and connecting with nature every day.
I’m grateful Nature Explore helped me create an outdoor space that supports their development in so many ways—and I’m excited to see where it takes us next.
