|
|
|
|
|
Media Inquiries
614-265-6860 |
|
|
|
|
|
Apr
6
Written by:
news editor
Monday, April 06, 2009
04/06/09 ODNR is working with the Ohio Department of Education and others to provide elementary school teachers statewide with resources that will help them use the natural world as their classroom.
ODNR Bringing Classroom and Playground Together
Hands-on, outdoor learning program helps Ohio children thrive
COLUMBUS, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is working with the Ohio Department of Education and others to provide elementary school teachers statewide with resources that will help them use the natural world as their classroom and provide hands-on learning experiences.
Through the Explore the Outdoors program, ODNR is providing Ohio public school teachers who educate children in grades 1-5 with educational resources for a hands-on outdoor program that reunites Ohio children with nature. Each child will be supplied with an activity guide and instructors will be provided with an online resource guide. Available on the Explore the Outdoors web site, www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com, the teacher's manual contains further instructions and additional suggested activities-including some that meet Ohio's curriculum standards.
"Research has shown that children who are in touch with their natural environment do better in school, have increased creativity and improved concentration," said ODNR Director Sean Logan. "For example, one study reports that children who learn in an outdoor setting increased their science scores by more than 27 percent."
The program's engaging activity guide recommends a variety of fun outdoor activities, including Spot a Bird, Learn from a Naturalist or Find a Fossil. These and many other activities can be done at school. For each activity completed, students will receive a special code from their teacher, which is provided by ODNR. Children who enter at least two correct codes on the Explore the Outdoors web site will receive a printable certificate signed by Governor Ted Strickland. Participants can also get entered for other prizes, including a GreenBird birdhouse and a state park camping excursion.
Activities that students cannot complete before the end of the school year can be continued throughout the summer with their families. Families can complete activities and events at state parks, forests, preserves and wildlife areas throughout Ohio. Some can also be done at local parks, green spaces or even at home. Program participants can find activity completion codes posted at welcome centers and kiosks in participating ODNR and partner facilities statewide.
The Explore the Outdoors web site provides activity guides for free download and a listing of special Explore the Outdoors events. From camp outs to clean ups, it is a great resource for finding family-friendly outdoor activities. Contact 614-784-PLAY (7529) or email for additional information or to request activity guides or other program resources.
ODNR appreciates Explore the Outdoors sponsors who share a desire to improve the health of Ohio children and families by getting them outdoors. Sponsors include ODNR Division of Recycling, American Heart Association, American Family Insurance, GreenBird Birdhouses and Whole Foods.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
-30-
For further information, contact:
Cristie Wilt, ODNR Communications
614. 265. 6787
Jason Fallon, ODNR Public Relations
614. 784. PLAY (7529)
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
Tags:
|
|
|