A Week of Outdoor Learning in Maternelle

During the week of May 12 to 16, every Maternelle class put a special emphasis on “classe dehors,” spending more time teaching and learning in the various outdoor spaces our school has to offer.

The TPS classes set up a sensory parkour course in their courtyard area. They filled bins with different materials like grass, flowers, and water. Every Maternelle class visited the course, and students took off their shoes to feel the materials on their feet.

TPS classes spend about two hours outside every day, no matter the weather. It provides students with an opportunity to explore, play, and be creative. All Maternelle classes spend time outside at recess, playing in Discovery Park, and walking through the forest.

The French International forest provides countless learning opportunities for students. We have several different low elements and outdoor classroom spaces. Some classes went out and used the other elements, while others used the classroom spaces and did their regular lessons.

The Maternelle program is a play-based learning environment, and that learning can occur anywhere.