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ERIC Number: EJ1493515
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 6
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1068-6177
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
When Climate Changes Interrupt Outdoor Learning: A Planning Framework for Early Childhood
Heather Olsen
Dimensions of Early Childhood, v53 n3 p14-19 2025
Early childcare programs are vulnerable to heatwaves, wildfires, storms, and power outages--conditions worsened by climate change. These events disrupt options, reduce outdoor time, and pose direct health risks to children and staff. As thermal conditions become uncomfortable or unsafe, childcare programs may reduce outdoor activities, limiting valuable opportunities for learning and development. The article outlines a four-phase planning framework for designing high-quality outdoor learning spaces to mitigate these risks. It emphasizes the connection between developmentally appropriate practices and the importance of outdoor learning. The article offers insights into gathering local climate data and conducting a thorough site analysis prior to purchasing materials or finalizing curriculum decisions. Additionally, it addresses maintenance and monitoring strategies to support informed decisions related to sustainability, curriculum integration, and long-term usability.
Southern Early Childhood Association. PO Box 8109 Jacksonville, AR 72078. Tel: 501-221-1648. e-mail: info@seca.info; Web site: www.seca.info/dimensions
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A