And, on Saturday, April 25, the aquarium will team up with Western Oregon University to teach parents and educators how play during children’s early years is connected to learning and development.
The free workshop explores how to connect children with nature through hands-on sessions focused on an education method called nature play.
“Creative natural play spaces and activities promote social, cognitive, physical and emotional development, especially during early childhood,” said McKenzie Reeves, the aquarium’s education specialist.
Participants will spend the day exploring the world of learning through a child’s eyes. Adults taking the course will assume the role of playing children as they explore these education methods. Participants will leave with ideas for creating their own natural play spaces and developing age-appropriate nature play curriculum.
The course may be counted toward Professional Development Unit requirements for childcare providers and Western Oregon University students.
The course is free but advance registration is required. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing. Contact Reeves at McKenzie.Reeves@aquarium.org or 541-867-3474 x5222.
The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Road, Newport. For more information, go to www.aquarium.org or call 541-867-3474.
