Welcome Aboard: The Online Learning Coach Journey
by Beth Werrell
by Beth Werrell
Rising temperatures. Melting snow. Crocuses and tulips peeking out of the soil. Spring cleaning. Yard work. Spring fever. Signs of spring can make students and Learning Coaches feel restless. When the sun comes out, take advantage of the opportunity to build nature smarts.
The concept of nature smarts comes from naturalistic intelligence, which is part of psychologist Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences. These intelligences, or strengths, are not fixed like a standard IQ. Each intelligence can grow and develop throughout a person’s life. He or she can build number-logic smarts, body smarts, and other competencies. One way to develop nature smarts is to explore and learn about the world outside the schoolroom windows.
Children who have innate nature smarts enjoy working with nature and studying the environment. Some topics that often interest a budding naturalist include:
Get creative during the spring and summer to find nature-based learning opportunities for your child. It’s easier than you think. Consider the ideas listed below.
These activities will encourage children of all ages to have fun outside.
You can expand this list with your own ideas.
The following chores show children how nature affects our habitats. They also teach responsibility!
Add outdoor chores to the family calendar to stay on track.
A strong naturalistic intelligence can thrive indoors, too. Some outdoor activities adapt well to an apartment or other indoor environment.
Looking for more activities to keep learning fun? Check out these fun outdoor PE activities that get your kids moving and staying active!