April 21, 2015

I stumbled across a TED talk that got me thinking about how much we need to do in regards to learning and teaching opportunities.  I had considered Steiner/Waldorf models of outdoor gardens and outdoor teaching, but hadn’t given thought to the shape, size and design of schools.  This kindergarden school in Japan bursts the four-wall model we have all become familiar with.  It nurtures activity, fitness, community, nature, play and fun!  A circular environment brings children back to learning and follows their “play activities” running in circles.  Tree climbing and exploration are also natural to children and can be found throughout this amazing facility.  The designer makes the case for children taking risks, falling down and hurting themselves as a natural and good phenomenon!
http://www.ted.com/talks/takaharu_tezuka_the_best_kindergarten_you_ve_ever_seen