The Nature Explore Classroom at

Gretchen’s House Dhu Varren was constructed from the ground up and opened in October 2003. Over the last 20+ years, the playground has been transformed to meet the needs of the children, and more recently to incorporate the ideas of the Nature Explore curriculum.

In addition to providing natural materials for the children, we also lean heavily on reusing, repurposing, and recycling materials as much as possible. Our fleet of Cozy Coupes have been donated by families over the years. An original house structure has gone from a playhouse to a safe space for infants and now is our Art Area. In that space, classroom easels have been moved outdoors and attached to that area for outdoor art. Families have generously donated a variety of items from boxes to household items to mailboxes. One family even donated and brought in the large climbing log in one of our gathering areas, which the children enjoy daily.

Our community comes together to create and maintain our outdoor classroom. Parents consistently
donate items to use in that space. Teachers collaborate on ideas for the space and work together daily to help support the children as they actively explore and engage with materials. Our maintenance team supports us in keeping everything in working order, and has assisted in the past with projects that require more time and materials. Our administrative team steps in when needed to clear sidewalks, provide new materials, and help solve problems that arise in that space.

Since we have embraced the Nature Explore curriculum we have noticed children more engaged and
excited about the outdoor classroom. While it is a space for children to exert energy and get fresh air, it has also become a place where new and exciting discoveries are taking place. Impromptu bug hunts happen consistently. Blankets are laid out to lay and look up at the clouds (and airplanes) in the sky. Herbs and vegetables are sampled from the growing areas. Children are able to feel free to explore the world around them while sharing it with their friends and teachers. It truly is a fantastic way to spend the day!

Address

1580 Dhu Varren Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105