Outdoor Classroom: Design Inspiration!

If you are anything like me, and have done some thinking about The Outdoor Classroom, you are probably super inspired and trying to come up with ways to incorporate one into your work with children!

But sometimes the question is, where should I begin?  I always find it helpful to have some concrete examples for inspiration to get my creative juices flowing and to help make the decision-making process of design and implementation easier.

This post is to serve as a collection of ideas of some possible designs for your outdoor classroom!  Enjoy!

I love the use of the clear, coloured roof of this outdoor classroom, below!  Imagine how fun it would be to be a child sitting beneath this shelter.  I'm sure the concept of light and colour would spark the interests of many...imagine the possibilities of learning!

http://www.infiniteplaygrounds.co.uk/canopies-and-outdoor-classrooms/outdoor-classrooms/


This next image shows how areas for music-making can be incorporated outdoors.  How inviting does this look?

http://natureexplorecommunity.org/2012/seca-outdoor-classroom-contest/

How exciting would it be for a child to see a library set up outdoors!  Sometimes just changing the environment slightly to something unexpected and out of the ordinary would make children want to engage in activities they typically would not be to keen on.

http://www.yourfuturelibrary.ca/design-photos/covered-outdoor-reading-lounge-for-kids-just-to-enhance-to-this-idea-we-could-have-small-furniture-for-kids-kids-size-sofas-and-chairs

Setting up a garden for children to plant and care for their own greenery utilizes the children's five senses in their learning and exploration.  I also love how this photo shows the mirror added behind the garden.  It allows the children to see all around the plants and utilizes the space effectively.

http://www.pinterest.com/pin/316166836312945012/



Incorporating a pond, like the one below, may allow children to study wildlife and the lifecycle of any plants or animals living in it.  The responsibilities children take on upon caring for a pond may teach them compassion, teamwork and responsibility!

 

http://www.ladycross.derbyshire.sch.uk/Curriculum/Outdoor+Learning

Below is a photo of Deephaven Elementary School's outdoor classroom.  You can see how the open space has some areas divided to encourage small group interactions.  The different areas also support various types of play, by providing sections with tables, platforms, gardens, and open spaces.

 

http://www.panoramio.com/photo/17905576

For more Outdoor Classroom inspiration, visit my Pinterest Board at http://www.pinterest.com/leevh/the-outdoor-classroom/
 

If you have an outdoor classroom that is already up and running and you are willing to share some photos, please Tweet me!  My twitter handle is @leevictoria - I'd LOVE to hear from you!