So, I am finding the results of this experiment very interesting. I look forward to spending time outside like I look forward to my morning coffee. It's exciting to think about what I might see each day and also what has changed overnight. I make Chad take tours around the yard with me so I can tell him about the creatures I have seen and the things I have learned. I talk to Gus about the butterflies and I take Sanford to see his favorite plants each day. I'm certain the neighbors are wondering why I skulk around my yard like I work for National Geographic. It just makes me happy. And curious. And inspired.
I am mindful of the time I give my learners to do various types of learning. With our once a month trips to Houk Stream this year, I felt like maybe I was spending too much time outside the classroom. After only a week amidst this project I can say most definitely it should be more. I'm better understanding why behavior issues are virtually non-existent at The Place Project. I know why some of my learners produce more writing and why I don't have to do a song and dance to engage them. My learners are happy. And curious. And inspired.
I'm excited to know that so many of my colleagues are curious about how they can incorporate an outdoor education experience for their learners. We will have a wonderful cohort of collaborators. What I learned this year is that it is so much sweeter to succeed with a team than on your own.
Yesterday and today I caught some awesomeness:
*click images for larger view and captions!
I am mindful of the time I give my learners to do various types of learning. With our once a month trips to Houk Stream this year, I felt like maybe I was spending too much time outside the classroom. After only a week amidst this project I can say most definitely it should be more. I'm better understanding why behavior issues are virtually non-existent at The Place Project. I know why some of my learners produce more writing and why I don't have to do a song and dance to engage them. My learners are happy. And curious. And inspired.
I'm excited to know that so many of my colleagues are curious about how they can incorporate an outdoor education experience for their learners. We will have a wonderful cohort of collaborators. What I learned this year is that it is so much sweeter to succeed with a team than on your own.
Yesterday and today I caught some awesomeness:
*click images for larger view and captions!
METAMORPHOSIS!
I found this little guy and have been back to see him for three days. See the changes?
I found this little guy and have been back to see him for three days. See the changes?
And what I didn't catch with my camera? A beautiful doe resting about 20 feet into the woods. And a little groundhog family that scurried back to safety once I startled them. But I know where they live. And I will be watching. Stay tuned...