Ecosystems in the Backyard: Preparing a Diverse Outdoor Environment for Primary (Ages Three to Six) Children by Mary B. Verschuur

In the Montessori approach, outdoor learning is just as important as classroom learning. The article "Ecosystems in the Backyard: Preparing a Diverse Outdoor Environment for Primary (Ages Three to Six) Children" by Mary B. Verschuur highlights the importance of creating a natural, stimulating outdoor environment where young children can engage with the world around them. For primary-aged children, the outdoors becomes an extension of the classroom—offering them the opportunity to learn about ecosystems, nature, and life cycles in a hands-on, immersive way.

The Role of the Outdoor Environment in Montessori Education

At the heart of Montessori education is the idea that children are active learners who thrive in environments that encourage exploration and discovery. In a Montessori primary classroom, much of the learning happens through sensory experiences. The outdoor environment, especially when thoughtfully prepared, can offer endless opportunities for learning in ways that engage a child's curiosity and innate sense of wonder.

For children between the ages of three and six, the backyard or garden becomes an ideal space for cultivating an understanding of the natural world. In this article, Verschuur advocates for creating an outdoor environment that introduces children to basic concepts of ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability. By preparing a space that mirrors nature's complexity, children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and make connections to the world they live in.

Building a Diverse Outdoor Environment

Verschuur emphasizes the importance of variety and diversity in the outdoor learning space. Here are key elements to consider when designing a Montessori-inspired backyard ecosystem for young children:

1. Natural Features and Varied Terrain The environment should include a mix of different surfaces and elements—grassy areas, dirt patches, rocks, water features, and trees or shrubs. These elements allow children to explore different textures and sensory experiences, helping them develop motor skills and physical coordination while encouraging imaginative play.

2. Plant Life and Biodiversity Planting a range of flowers, shrubs, vegetables, and trees can introduce children to concepts of growth, change, and seasons. Verschuur recommends creating small garden plots that children can take care of, learning about the different needs of plants while experiencing the cycle of life from seed to sprout to bloom.

3. Wildlife and Insects A thriving garden will attract insects, birds, and small animals, providing children with the opportunity to observe creatures in their natural habitats. Montessori classrooms often emphasize the interconnectedness of all living things, and the backyard can serve as a microcosm of these relationships, where children can see firsthand how plants and animals rely on one another to survive.

4. Water Features Incorporating a small pond, water table, or rainwater system allows children to explore the properties of water, including flow, evaporation, and absorption. It also encourages them to observe how water plays a vital role in sustaining life on Earth.

5. Quiet Spaces for Reflection Just as indoor Montessori classrooms have peaceful corners for reading or reflection, an outdoor environment should also include spaces for solitude. A shaded nook, bench, or hammock gives children a place to retreat and engage in quiet observation, whether it's watching a bird's nest or pondering the beauty of a blooming flower.

   
   

Learning Through Observation and Interaction

The beauty of an outdoor learning environment is that it allows children to engage with nature at their own pace. Verschuur points out that young children have a natural fascination with animals, plants, and environmental processes. Through simple activities like observing insects or collecting fallen leaves, children develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

As children explore these ecosystems, they not only learn about biology and ecology but also develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and responsibility. They begin to understand the cycles of life, the importance of conservation, and how they can care for the world around them.

Practical Ways to Implement an Outdoor Ecosystem in Your Backyard

• Encourage Outdoor Activities: Allow children to freely explore the backyard, guiding them as needed, but giving them the space to discover on their own.

• Incorporate Natural Materials: Use natural items like sticks, rocks, and leaves in activities like nature crafts or building structures, fostering creativity and tactile learning.

• Create a Gardening Space: Involve children in planting and caring for the garden, teaching them responsibility and the basics of horticulture.

• Support Inquiry-Based Learning: As children observe and ask questions, foster their curiosity by providing resources (books, magnifying glasses, journals) to help them explore their findings.

The backyard, as described by Mary B. Verschuur, offers a wealth of learning opportunities for young children. By creating a diverse and engaging outdoor environment, we can provide children with the tools to explore and understand the natural world. This type of immersive, hands-on learning not only nurtures a child’s cognitive and physical development but also fosters a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the environment—values that will stay with them throughout their lives.