About two years ago, when we moved into my neighborhood, I took my daughter (then almost one) to visit the "Greenspace". This little corner of green quickly became our favorite hangout. It offered countless opportunities for play, from climbing and rolling on the mini "hills" to pretend-play using the tree stumps and picnic table. When I began my internship at the Brookfield Zoo for my graduate program, this little space took on new meaning for me.
One of the statues of high quality nature play is that it is unbounded, or as unbounded as possible. Playing outside on a playground is great, but the open-ended nature of NATURE is far more conducive to development of the whole child. The Greenspace is a perfect setting for young children and their families to spend time exploring and playing outdoors together, without the arbitrary (and sometimes limiting) structures of a playground.
I have always been surprised that the space isn't more utilized. Then one day a thought occurred to me. There should be a play group in this space. The group could focus on nature play for young children, and give caregivers ideas and tools for incorporating more nature play opportunities for their children at home.
I approached the community organization with the idea, and have been astounded at the amazing support I have received. This spring, my community organization will be hosting a weekly nature play group in our Greenspace, and I have been given the wonderful priviledge of facilitating the group!
More to come!