Gladwyne Montessori's planned orchard, greenhouse, playing field, nature trail, and elementary playground.
New Outdoor Learning Spaces
In our fast-paced world, children are increasingly disconnected with nature, missing out on opportunities to truly explore and experience nature with meaning and purpose. When a child spends time in nature, it is freeing, inspiring, healing, and peaceful. In nature, children are filled with a sense of wonder and a desire to explore.
Gladwyne Montessori’s new outdoor learning spaces will provide an opportunity for children to spend meaningful time in nature, with ample opportunities to practice sustainability and learn what it means to truly love and care for the earth.
Specifically, we plan to:
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Add two acres to our outdoor environment, including a nature trail, where children will learn about native plants, trees, insects, and birds.
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Develop a series of outdoor learning spaces (including an outdoor learning terrace) where students can learn, create, and explore in the open air.
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Plant a small orchard and install a greenhouse, where children will observe plant life cycles while tending and harvesting fruits and vegetables.
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Establish permaculture, pollinator, and native plant gardens where children will study biodiversity, ecosystems, and weather patterns.
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Introduce a grass playing field and a hardscape play area where children can run free, engage in a game of kickball, or simply observe the clouds.
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Create new, dynamic playgrounds where children can practice playful and positive unstructured social interactions, while building strength and safely challenging their bodies.