Beaver Hollow is Open for Students

Outdoor classrooms are viable alternative to indoor instruction to consider this fall, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to public health experts, the transmission of COVID is comparatively low outside, making outdoor classrooms a practical alternative to indoor study. The benefits of outdoor learning go well beyond the avoidance of disease transmission, however. Recent studies indicate that the overall academic performance of children increases when they learn outdoors, which researchers attribute to the increased relevance and hands-on experience of outdoor learning. Student enthusiasm and engagement in learning increases when they are able to link their studies to real world experiences. Additionally, scientists have known for decades that time spent in a forest has multiple benefits for mental and emotional health, including reduced stress and anxiety, and improved short-term memory and positive emotions. Students who spend time outdoors have increased attention and focus when returning to indoor learning.

The Beaver Hollow Outdoor Education Area is ready to host school classes, learning pods, homeschoolers, and students working on individualized lessons or projects. Beaver Hollow offers a pavilion with six large picnic tables for class work, a large open area for projects, and a boardwalk overlooking a marsh teeming with wildlife. The Friends can loan binoculars and bird guides to your group this fall, and snowshoes for winter explorations.

Questions? Contact the Friends at info@northpikescreek.org.