CRESTLINE — The Crawford Park District is now registering students for its 2021-22 nature based pre-school program.
Research has shown that a lack of time in nature leads to attention diffuclties, higher rates of physical and emotional illness, and diminished use of the scenses in children.
Nature-based preschool fosters curiosity, inspires confidence and independence, encourages problem solving and reflection, and strenghtens balance, coordination, and concentration.
Interaction with nature is essential in meeting the social, physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of children.
A typical session includes:
● Game or Animal encounter
● Introduction or review of new learning concepts
● Read aloud
● Hike & exploration of the woods, river, pond, or wetland
● Healthy snack
● Free play time & One-on-one work with teacher.
This program incorporates outdoor learning with Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards, which focus on math, science, social studies, language and literacy as well as social/emotional & physical development. It is led by a licensed Pre-K teacher/naturalist.
Classes will be outside rain, snow, or shine, except in cases of severe weather. Learning sessions will be Wednesdays and Fridays with a morning session from 8:30 a.m. to noon and an afternoon session from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Class sizes are limited to six students per session, and registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. Cost is $100/month. This program is for 4- or 5-year-olds who will be starting Kindergarten in 2022.
Due to limited availability, registration forms and September’s payment must be submitted in-person at Lowe-Volk Nature Center to secure a child’s participation in this program.
For more information, call the Crawford Park District office at 419-683-9000.
