Tentinger Daycare, LLC
Family Child Care Home

Oh, so much fun this year here in Tentinger Daycare’s Outdoor Explore Classroom! This year we have
watched our Dramatic Play areas unfold and come to life. There are so many engaging types of nature-based dramatic play that invite young children to explore, imagine, and create!

Nature-based dramatic play allows young children to immerse themselves in hands-on experiences that connect them deeply with the natural world. Children use natural materials to create meaningful stories and scenarios throughout our space. Children love our pretend outdoor kitchen- using dirt, sand, leaves, and pinecones to cook up creative meals. They also like to role-play as forest animals- taking on the movements and sounds of birds, squirrels, monkeys, deer, foxes, or bears as they build nests, dens, and shelters.

Through sensory-rich exploration, children gain a better understanding of their environment, build empathy for living things, and develop a sense of wonder for nature. They really enjoy becoming explorers or scientists- going on adventures collecting natural “specimens” like rocks or flowers and pretending to research or discover new species building language and storytelling abilities. Constructing fairy houses or forts from logs, sticks, bark, and leaves sparks problem-solving through cooperative play encouraging meaningful peer interaction and teamwork.

They delight in pretending to be weather reporters, farmers, or park rangers which introduces real-world roles in a playful context supporting physical coordination and strengthening fine and gross motor skills. They’re not just having fun-they are developing important skills while building a lasting sense of curiosity and connection to their environment. Here at Tentinger Daycare the children know that: Adventure Awaits…Come Explore Us! -Ann Marie Tentinger

 

Learn more about this classroom on their certification page!