CRAWFORD COUNTY—The Crawford Park District is now registering students for its 2021/2022 nature-based pre-school program. Research has shown that a lack of time in nature leads to attention difficulties, higher rates of physical & emotional illness, and diminished use of the senses in children. Nature-based preschool fosters curiosity, inspires confidence & independence, encourages problem solving & reflection, and strengthens balance, coordination, & 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 a teacher
This program incorporates outdoor learning with Ohio’s Early Learning & Development Standards, which focus on math, science, social studies, language & 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 8:30-12 and an afternoon session from 1-4:30 pm. Class sizes are limited to six students per session, and registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. The 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.