Last Fall, at some of our NYC Playgrounds sites, we saw schools utilizing their outdoor spaces for the classes that were able to attend in-person learning. You can read on the Trust for Public Land’s blog about one school’s experience in the Two Bridges neighborhood of Manhattan. Ms. Soong used the garden as inspiration for her middle school art students and utilized the play spaces as a way for stressed students to reset after they completed their assignments.
As we look towards warmer weather this Spring, here are a few ideas, resources, and tips for getting your students outside. This toolkit was developed through a collaboration of parks, and education organizations (including us), all focused on the importance of outdoor learning. You’ll find tips on materials, outdoor classroom management, resources for students with special needs, and a list of organizations offering curriculum and programming.
Enjoy and don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support!