The Nature Explore Classroom at
Kids Country Fairlawn
As spring preparation began for the outdoor environment at Kids Country Fairlawn, conversations started with current and perspective parents on the philosophy of Kids Country.
This philosophy includes a love of the outdoors and all the natural things it has for the children to explore and learn. Conversations also touched on all the changes the site was making to create an environment for children to be more imaginative and carefree in their play and to strengthen cooperative play. An excitement was growing as parents observed the changes in the playground.
The outdoor space was transformed with the help of many. Dads chopped trees, providing various sizes of stumps for balance and tree cookies for stepping. The children were instrumental in setting up all the areas. Many came and helped clean up the space and were assigned duties based on their age. The playground has now become visually pleasing with a relaxing feel. Neutral tones have been incorporated as well as splashes of color throughout. The space has been personalized with native plants, trees, ornamental grasses, a variety of perennials and gardens. Regional materials and a variety of other items were donated from local companies.
The Ohio Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights is posted in the space and a copy was handed out to each of the families. Posting photos on Facebook of the children engaged in the areas has allowed parents a window into their day.
