Environmental Games

By Michelle MacMillan

Many of us have a childhood memory of playing some sort of predator-prey themed game on a school field trip; almost every outdoor education centre has their own version of this type of game where students take on the role of various animals in the food chain. While we may not remember the day we learned about carnivores and herbivores in the classroom, we can strongly recall the feeling of running through the woods trying to escape from whomever was playing the role of the predator. This type of learning-through-play can be extremely memorable and valuable for students.

It is more important than ever for children to get outside and connect with the natural world. When considerable amounts of students’ time are spent sitting at desks or looking at screens, providing opportunities for hands-on outdoor experiences can be a valuable way to enhance their learning. With even a small outdoor space, you can create dynamic, fun, and engaging lessons that your students will remember.