Monday, February 22, 2010

Aquatic Connections Plans Nature Explore Classroom

Aquatic Connections is in the planning phase of a Nature Explore Classroom to be located at their water garden center in Trevose, Pa. The owners and staff of Aquatic Connections will be working with the Arbor Day Foundation, the Dimensions Educational Research Foundation, schools, teachers, students and parents throughout the planning process in order to incorporate fun, educational activities for children ages 4 to 8 years old. For more information, please send an email to: online@aquaticconnections.com.

What is a Nature Explore Classroom?
Nature Explore Classrooms are dynamic, nature-based play and learning spaces. These nature-rich outdoor spaces are being constructed at schools; nature centers; national forests, parks, and wildlife refuges; zoos; arboretums; and child care centers. Nature Explore Classrooms enhance the
physical environment and add natural beauty to the surrounding area.

The Nature Explore Classroom Certification Program is a national initiative that recognizes schools and other organizations that have made a commitment to providing outdoor classrooms and comprehensive programming to help children use the natural world as an integral part of learning. Grounded in over a decade of research and field-testing, this widespread initiative is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Foundation in collaboration with environmental, educational, design and health organizations.