Noah's Ark Preschool to construct Nature Explore Classroom

Noah's Ark Christian Preschool and Kindergarten, a ministry of the Barrington United Methodist Church, has started construction of a Nature Explore Classroom, one of approximately 60 classrooms in the United States. The grand opening is planned for the fall of 2011.

The Nature Explore Program is a collaboration between the Dimensions Educational Research Foundation and the Arbor Day Foundation to connect children with nature through dynamic, nature-based play and learning spaces. The Noah's Ark classroom will be approximately 7,000 square feet and include many unique areas, such as nature art and pathways through the plantings, where the children can experience nature in a safe and engaging environment. Upon completion, the classroom will be certified by the Arbor Day Foundation.

The director of the preschool, Mary Bradley, grew up on a Kansas farm where most days were spent outdoors working or playing. After reading Richard Louv's book, Last Child in the Woods, Mrs. Bradley began researching children and nature and observed what Mr. Louv calls “nature deficit disorder” all around her – children are not spending very much time in unstructured outdoor activities. Subsequently, funds were raised for a conceptual plan and the construction of our Nature Explore Classroom. Trees have been donated from a local nursery and soon construction will begin on the different areas within the classroom. Most of the work will be performed by volunteers.

To learn more about Noah's Ark Preschool and the Nature Explore Classroom, please contact Mary Bradley at (847) 844-3738 or e-mail her at mbradley@barringtonumc.com.