Little Explorers: Discovering Nature on Campus
Our little ones recently enjoyed a nature walk around the Grace Place campus, taking in all the sights, sounds, and colors around them. The highlight? Our butterfly garden, where children noticed flowers, plants, and fluttering butterflies up close.
After the walk, the children expressed what they saw and felt through drawing, turning their observations into colorful works of art. These moments encourage creativity, curiosity, and a love for the world around them.
Time spent outdoors is more than just play—it’s an essential part of early childhood development. Being outside supports children’s physical health by strengthening coordination, building gross motor skills, and providing natural sunlight, which helps regulate sleep and boost vitamin D. Beyond the body, outdoor experiences spark curiosity and creativity, encouraging problem-solving and exploration in an ever-changing environment. Nature also offers a calm, restorative space where children can reduce stress, practice mindfulness, and develop emotional resilience.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Outdoor time is a powerful way for children to grow socially, learning to cooperate, communicate, and build empathy with peers. It also nurtures a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world, planting the seeds for environmental stewardship and a lifelong love of learning. By embracing outdoor play and exploration, educators and caregivers give children more than fun—they give them the tools to thrive physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually.
We loved seeing our little explorers so engaged, learning through their own eyes, and finding joy in discovery. These experiences help nurture a lifelong curiosity and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
