Childcare Resources, a leading advocate for early childhood development and education in Indian River County, is pleased to announce a generous gift from the John’s Island Foundation to fully fund an educational outdoor classroom.
Through funding from John’s Island Foundation, the current 122 children attending the Childcare Resources School will have access to an outdoor classroom and age-appropriate equipment that promotes motor experiences, imaginative and fine-motor development, and exploration of natural materials.
Tara Beard, Childcare Resources School Director, understands the important benefits an outdoor classroom will have for students. “The most important period of life is from birth to age six,” she says. “During these critical early learning years, it is essential that children have access to outdoor spaces that provide stimulation for physical and cognitive development.”
The outdoor classroom includes an art studio with four-sided easels and a water sensory trough, as well as balance beams, tunnels, bridges, and platform blocks. Its flexible design ensures that the space can be easily reconfigured, continually inspiring creativity and supporting the development of all students.
“Outdoor classrooms are dynamic spaces where children can observe and experiment,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Childcare Resources Executive Director. “Thanks to the John’s Island Foundation, our children are receiving these fundamental learning experiences.”
By immersing program students in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment, the new outdoor classroom will foster curiosity and creativity.
“John’s Island Foundation is thrilled that our grant to Childcare Resources’ outdoor classroom will help children enjoy fresh air and the outdoors while also learning,” says Kathy Balderston, Vice President of Core Grants. “A wonderful educational combination.”
Kommentarer