Needham Community Education

In this class, we'll immerse ourselves in the natural world that surrounds our school. We will explore and care for the school's outdoor garden, learn about and celebrate local plants and animals, and discover the magic of nature through imaginative games and building projects. From creating nature obstacle courses and building forts in the woods to constructing miniature animal shelters and designing eco-friendly art, we'll use natural materials to spark creativity and inspire collaborative play. We'll also learn about the importance of protecting our environment and discover how to minimize our impact on the natural world. Through these hands-on adventures, we will cultivate a deep appreciation for the natural world and a love for exploration and discovery. Note: Even on cloudy days or during gentle rain, the outdoors provides endless opportunities for exploration, inspiration and play. Students should be prepared to spend some time outdoors during each class.

Instructor: Nini Catalasan, Instructional Assistant, Sunita Williams Elementary

ACTIVE EXPLORATIONS: In addition to the outdoor movement and break times planned by each instructor, students participating in full-day Summer Explorations classes will enjoy a 40-minute active break each day led by highly qualified Needham Public School P.E. and Wellness Instructors. During this time, students will head to the gym or venture outside to get some fresh air and move their bodies. Whether it's a brisk walk around the grounds, high-energy running games and relay races, or exciting team sports and activities, this time is a great way to break up the day, get some energy out, and boost focus for the rest of class!