Outdoor Play and Learning and our "Second Classroom"

Play is one of the main ways that children consolidate their learning. The way we really make our skills permanent and enriched and highly developed, is often through our play experiences.
-Doris Bergen, Professor of Educational Psychology, Miami University

Students at the Valley School spend time outdoors every day, rain or shine. What some students call recess, we refer to as our “second classroom” — a place where students can practice skills from many disciplines while following their own questions, ideas and desires. Our playground is designed to meet the needs of young, growing students and to inspire unstructured, student led investigations, creations and play. We provide monthly “provocations” to help spark student inquiry, exploration, creativity and collaboration. Valley School students get plenty of exercise and get plenty muddy too.

Our OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Coordinator works as a part of our Student Services Team to strengthen academic and social skills through connection and play. By using guided recess meetings, play coaching, and playful learning strategies in the classroom we can meet students where they are and help them continue to develop academic, social, and physical skills.

WE TELL STORIES - Literacy Skills

WE ACT LIKE SCIENTISTS AND MATHEMATICIANS - STEM Skills

WE MAKE FRIENDS - Social and Emotional Skills

Students: Experience and manage a range of emotions, Take Risks, Initiate Plans, Share Ideas, Read Emotions, Take Turns, Join Groups, Include Others, Give “I Statements”, Communicate Feelings, Negotiate Rules, Listen, Make Friends, Argue, Advocate for Self and Others, Give Compliments, Take Breaks, Solve Problems, Manage Conflict, Care for Others, Determine Fairness, Demonstrate Kindness, Have FUN

WE GET STRONGER - Large and Small Motor Skills