Outdoor Learning with Little Learners: Make it Successful and Fun with the 5 Senses!

I know what you're thinking (because I'm that way, too).

Outdoors? Like the great, wide, open OUTSIDE? Where there are no four walls and anything could happen?

I often refer to myself as being a recovering perfectionist, and aspiring good-enough-ist. As an educator, I've also learned that:

- Perfection doesn't exist

- A beautifully crafted lesson doesn't need to involve a Pinterest perfect "classroom transformation," overstimulating supplies, or harping on a cutesy theme (and trust me... I am the former Queen of Cute!).

In fact, lessons that truly stick with kids are cerebral, cater to the whole child, build risk-taking, and allow true creativity to take center stage.

Taking learning outdoors provides students with fresh air, a hands-on approach, and a direct connection to nature. By moving lessons outside, we have the power as teachers to create engaging, memorable learning opportunities that foster lots of curiosity and enthusiasm.

And you know what? It's not as daunting as it sounds. Here are my TOP 5 practical ideas and tips for taking learning outdoors!

1. Plan Lessons Around Nature

Utilize the natural environment to teach various subjects. For example, a math lesson can be as low-prep as measuring tree heights, or counting/sorting different colors of leaves. The outdoors offers endless opportunities for experiential learning!

2. Outdoor Reading Sessions

Take reading time outside. Whether it’s under a tree, on a picnic blanket, or in a school garden, a change of scenery can make reading more enjoyable and relaxing for students. Encourage them to bring their favorite books or select nature-themed literature!

3. Nature Journals

Students can document observations, draw sketches, and write reflections about their outdoor experiences. This activity can enhance their writing and observational skills while making a deeper connection to the environment.

4. Physical Education and Games

Incorporate outdoor physical education classes. Activities like hiking, running, or playing team sports in an open field can improve physical health and teamwork skills. Consider organizing nature scavenger hunts to make physical activity fun and educational.

5. Art and Creativity

Use the outdoors as inspiration for art projects. Encourage students to create nature-inspired artwork using materials like leaves, rocks, and flowers. Outdoor spaces can also be perfect for music and drama activities, allowing students to perform in a natural amphitheater.

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS:

Safety First: Definitely  that all outdoor activities are safe and that students are supervised at all times.

Weather Preparedness: Be prepared for various weather conditions by having a backup plan or suitable outdoor gear.

Accessibility: Make sure that outdoor activities are accessible to all students, considering any mobility or sensory needs.

By taking learning outdoors, you can create enriching, memorable experiences that inspire an appreciation for nature. Explore these ideas and adapt them to fit your teaching style and curriculum needs!

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Ready to get your students outside?

Try a 5 Senses Nature Walk!

You can download these free printables HERE!

Here's to the great outdoors!

My Top 2 Math Workshop Books Every Teacher Should Read

True story: As a child, I had terrible math anxiety. 

I didn't "get" math. There was a definite gap in my concrete and abstract understanding of concepts, and I had to work really hard to understand traditional algorithms.

As a high schooler, there was lots of extra help after school, and too many late nights around the dining room table shedding tears over my homework.

If I had lots of hands-on materials and visuals, I totally would have been better with my multiplication facts (and lots more!).

If you would have told the younger Erin that math would be one of her favorite parts about being a teacher, she would have laughed in your face. But here we are... it's true!

MATH: MY TOP 2 READS

1. Math Workshop in Action by Dr. Nicki Newton

Here's a snapshot at the structure of math workshop, that Dr. Newton guides you through setting up!

Mini-Lessons are concise and engaging, providing a clear and direct introduction to the day’s learning objectives.

Independent Work involves students practicing the concepts and skills introduced, and working at their own pace.

Small Group Instruction allows teachers to provide targeted support to students in flexible groups.

Math Centers are stations set up around the classroom that are hands-on, and give students practice with a variety of math concepts.

Reflection and Sharing is a time when students come together to discuss their learning experiences and share their work.

Doesn't it sound MAGICAL?

Why Math Workshop in Action is Essential for Teachers

You'll learn how to set up and conduct your math workshop, + more.

1. Practical Strategies: Dr. Nicki Newton is A. MAZING. She provides a wealth of practical strategies that you can implement immediately! From setting up the classroom environment to managing small group instruction, the book offers step-by-step guidance to make the math workshop model work in any classroom.

2. Student Engagement: The workshop model is designed to engage students actively in their learning. By incorporating hands-on activities, games, and collaborative tasks, the magic of the workshop model is brought to math instruction! It's really exciting to read about how to create a dynamic and interactive math block where students are motivated and excited to learn.

3. Differentiated Instruction: One of the key strengths of a math workshop model is its ability to accommodate diverse learning needs! You'll learn strategies for differentiating instruction, ensuring that all students, from struggling learners to advanced students, receive the support and challenge they need.

4. Focus on Conceptual Understanding: Rather than relying solely on rote memorization and procedural skills (because, UGH), the math workshop model emphasizes deep conceptual understanding. Dr. Newton offers techniques to help students grasp underlying mathematical concepts, fostering a profound and lasting understanding of math!

My Top 2 Reading and Language Arts Books Every Teacher Should Read

Balanced Literacy?

Readers Workshop?

Guided Reading?

If you're anything like me, you feel like you've done it all.

Teaching reading is one of the most critical responsibilities teachers have. After all, it lays the foundation for all other learning - opening up a world of knowledge and possibilities for our kids (No pressure!). With the huge variety of approaches and methodologies available, finding the best ways to teach reading can be overwhelming.

Never fear! Integrating research-based strategies can make the complex task of reading instruction more effective and successful.

It's been so much fun sharing my top reads that stretch across the curriculum. Keep reading for books that will transform your literacy instruction!

READING AND LANGUAGE ARTS: MY TOP 2 READS

1. The CAFE Book (Expanded 2nd Edition) by Gail Boushey and Allison Behne

Once upon a time, I lived and breathed everything about CAFE & Daily 5 when it came to literacy instruction. The CAFE framework (Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, and Expanding Vocabulary) was THE system when it came to helping students set personalized goals and provide targeted instruction.

Don't get me wrong, it still is. Now, it's improved. Why? The Accuracy instruction better embraces the importance of phonics instruction and the Science of Reading. Instead of "Check the Picture," strategies like, "Map it," and "Look Carefully at Letters and Words" are being implemented. Hooray!!!

This book is one that you're going to want to get your highlighters and sticky notes out for (and I think you'll love it!).

The expanded second edition enriches the original CAFE framework with updated research, new strategies, and enhanced tools to better support teachers and students.

Why The CAFE Book is Essential for Teachers

You are taken through setting up "The CAFE menu," a visual tool that outlines the four key literacy goals: Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, and Expanding Vocabulary. Step-by-step, you'll also learn how to conduct individual conferences, create strategy groups, and track student progress. All of this with updated research and insights!

1. Personalized Learning: The CAFE framework emphasizes individualized instruction. It supports teachers in tailoring instruction to meet the specific needs of each student! This personalized approach is crucial for addressing diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom.

2. Student Engagement: One of the core principles of The CAFE Book is engaging students in their own learning process. We all know that when students are involved in goal setting and self-assessment, it makes it a lot easier for you to foster motivation!

3. User-Friendly Tools: The book provides a ton of practical tools, including updated assessment forms, checklists, and record-keeping templates. These tools simplify the process of tracking student progress and planning instruction.

4. Support for Diverse Learners: Recognizing the diversity in student abilities and learning styles, the CAFE framework offers strategies for differentiating instruction. This ensures that all students, regardless of their starting point, receive the support they need to grow as readers.