Date: November 18, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Elizabeth Panox-Leach
Tel: (703) 461-1764
Email: [email protected]
ALEXANDRIA, VA – In caring for creation, it is imperative that passion for outdoor learning and stewardship be taught in the earliest years. At Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS), these crucial lessons are being taught in a brand-new outdoor classroom at the on-campus childcare center, The Butterfly House. Built into the existing outdoor play area, the new classroom features spaces for building, music & movement, water play, a gathering space for classes to come together, a garden area, and so much more. The outdoor classroom reaffirms the teaching philosophy of The Butterfly House, holding that when children play outside in an unstructured setting, they can create, engage in dramatic play, and explore freely.
“As times change, outdoor play is becoming increasingly limited. Early childhood educators realize how important outdoor experiences are for children of all ages,” said Juanita Sanchez, director of The Butterfly House at VTS. “Exposure to natural settings has an intrinsic effect on our emotional and cognitive functioning. Outdoor settings give children the chance to set their imagination free and provide endless opportunities for creativity!”
The Butterfly House is the only early childhood center in Northern Virginia with a certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom. Certification is approved by the Nature Explore team at Dimensions Educational Research Foundation. Heather Fox, director of outreach and communication at Dimensions, said, “The Butterfly House’s commitment to providing research-based and nature-rich learning offers a wonderful example to programs and educators throughout the country.”
The regular use of creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in an unstructured outside setting helps children build critical skills and abilities that will serve them in the classroom and in future careers.
The Butterfly House is a play-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired facility that takes pride in everyday learning experiences. It serves children ages six weeks to six years and offers children a path to self-expression, communication, logical thinking, and problem-solving.
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ABOUT VTS
Founded in 1823 as a beacon of hope in a country new and finding its way, Virginia Theological Seminary has led the way in forming leaders of the Episcopal Church, including the Most Rev. John E. Hines (VTS 1933, D.D. 1946), former presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church; the Rt. Rev. John T. Walker (VTS 1954, D.D. 1978), the first African-American bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington; and theologian, author, and lay preacher Ms. Verna J. Dozier (VTS D.D. 1978). Serving the worldwide Anglican Communion, Virginia Theological Seminary educates approximately 25% of those being ordained who received residential theological education. Visit us online: www.vts.edu.