Outdoor classroom for children becomes certified

The CSC Nature Explore Outdoor Learning Environment is the fifth Certified Nature Explore Classroom in Nebraska and the 24th in the nation.

Nature Explore Classrooms are part of the Nature Explore Program, a collaborative project of the Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Educational Research Foundation. Developed in response to the growing disconnect between children and nature, Certified Nature Explore Classrooms are designed to help fill the void by educating young children using research-based principles for integrating nature into their daily learning. The first Nature Explore Classroom is located in the Tree Adventure attraction at Arbor Day Farm, the Arbor Day Foundation’s interactive conservation venue at Nebraska City.

The classrooms offer interactive elements – including climbing structures, musical instruments made of natural materials, wooden blocks, small waterways, and natural materials for building and creating art – that give children important and inspiring nature experiences. While connecting children with nature, such unstructured play and activities are shown to enhance concentration, develop creativity and problem-solving, relieve stress, and improve skills in many areas.

Outdoor classrooms designed according to principles described in the Dimensions Foundation’s Learning With Nature Idea Book are eligible to become certified Nature Explore Classrooms.

The CSC classroom is at the Burkhiser Technology Complex. At the new classroom, children can create visual masterpieces in a nature art area, climb and crawl on structures, build with natural materials, and practice their balance, agility, and creativity in designed areas.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy Nature as it was meant to be,” said Kim Madsen, Child Development Center director. “It is my hope and dream that children as well as adults in western Nebraska and around the world develop a love for nature and an appreciation for what nature provides each and every day in so many unique and exciting ways. I am proud to be a part of this wonderful project, proud to be a native of western Nebraska continuing a long family heritage of good stewardship of the land, appreciation for God’s creations, and the love of nature as a way of life. I too am proud of the visionary leadership of many, many dedicated community partners who care about the future of children, are committed to making a better world, and who value nature enough to support this wonderful Nature Explore Outdoor Learning Environment that generations to come will have the opportunity to enjoy.”

Arbor Day Foundation representatives also say the new classroom is an asset for families and the community.

“The Chadron State College Development Center Laboratory has taken an important leadership role in a profoundly needed initiative to connect young children with nature, setting a wonderful example for education centers across the country,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Everyone at the Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Educational Research Foundation appreciate the commitment Chadron State College has made to the Nature Explore program and the role that nature plays in the lives of young children.”