Using Field-Tested Principles to Inspire Learning

The Ten Guiding Principles for designing an outdoor classroom are based on years of field testing by Dimensions Educational Research Foundation and represent a well-rounded mix of experiences that can and should occur outdoors for preschool and elementary children.

Adults who observe closely will celebrate the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional growth that can take place for every child every day in the natural outdoor classroom. And the children will delight in sharing the wonder and awe that nature can inspire in each of us, no matter our age or where we live.