Fun in the Great Outdoors: Outdoor Classroom Day

Outdoor Classroom Day is a global movement dedicated to integrating outdoor activities into the daily routines of every child. Through two annual days of action, teachers take their students outside to both play and learn. Moreover, throughout the year, the Outdoor Classroom Day community actively advocates for increased outdoor time on a daily basis.

Watch this inspiring video that showcases the joy and adventure experienced during our recent outdoor day at our nature school site in Kisongo: YouTube link.

Our outdoor day was a remarkable event filled with exciting adventures. As we crossed the bridge, some children delighted in making connections to the story of the 'Three Billy Goats Gruff,' demonstrating how they relate their learning to their everyday experiences.

Descending into the canyon was a truly memorable experience, requiring balance, grip, and control of speed. Along the way, we encountered a variety of fascinating sights, from wiggly caterpillars to beautiful butterflies, adorable baby beetles, and even spiky thorns. The children found these discoveries highly stimulating.

The adults also had the opportunity to relive their childhood games when we stumbled upon ant lion pits in the dry, loose soil (known to many of us as 'chukuchuku'). Just like we did as children, we sang to the ant lions in the pits, hoping to coax them out. Luckily, we were able to witness one emerge.

Amidst the simple pleasures of the day, there was nothing quite as exhilarating as chasing bubbles and the satisfying pop as they burst. The boarding house grounds echoed with screams and shouts of joy as the children energetically chased the floating bubbles.

Outdoor writer Gene Hill once said, "Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies." With this in mind, we decided to surprise the children by taking them to Mr. Chege and Ms. Rogers's house, as we had heard that there were adorable little puppies waiting to be discovered. The sight brought sheer delight to everyone present, and we anticipate many children returning home to ask their parents to bring a furry friend into their lives.

Reflecting on the day, we recalled the wise words of a Chinese proverb: "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." To leave a positive impact on the nature school site, we made sure to plant a tree before departing. By doing so, we left the place better than we found it, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among the children.

Overall, it was a day brimming with excitement, adventure, and unforgettable moments. The children revelled in the joy of learning outdoors, connecting with nature, and forging lasting memories.

Article by Fiona Kombe