Abstract

Fern Ridge Early Learning Center is applying for a grant to create an outdoor nature learning center. An outdoor nature center will incorporate all areas of learning into one outdoor play area. Children will be able to plant seeds and plants, grow a garden, count with natural materials, and participate in outdoor art activities. Children will learn to use new, descriptive language based on their surroundings. They will be provided ample opportunities to engage in natural learning. The outdoor nature center at Fern Ridge will have opportunities for all of the children at the center, including having a separate covered area for infants and young toddlers to get the fresh air all children need. Because the center services infants through school-aged children, there will be materials safe for the younger children but that can be expanded upon for the school aged children. Receiving this grant will benefit the children of Fern Ridge Early Learning Center by opening up a new world of exploration for children of all ages and development levels and will incorporate materials that all the children will enjoy. The administration at Fern Ridge is asking for $3500 for completion of their outdoor nature learning center.