Green Curriculum

OCP’s Green Curriculum introduces environmental education to young children in a holistic way that intrigues them and ideally leads to a lifetime of wonder and respect for the natural world. As children deepen their connection with nature, they develop empathy, learn about science, and become eager and thoughtful caretakers of the environment.

Why do we have a green curriculum?

For one, it’s good for the earth and our children. A green curriculum instills in children a sense of responsibility and stewardship as citizens not simply of a particular country but of our earth. Through conscious choices in the classroom, we reduce our impact on the earth’s resources and hopefully set children on a lifelong path of sustainability.

Secondly, a green curriculum helps children become aware of cycles and processes of life on a macro and micro level, through activities and discussions that reflect the changing seasons and, when they can, bring us through the beginning, middle, and end of a process. The natural environment provides broad examples of sensory differences and helps children discriminate and become aware, opening up their worlds to different textures, hues, tones of sound, and other nuances of the five senses.

Finally, a green curriculum seeks to provide balance to the stressors of a very busy modern world. Time spent in nature can help children become centered and calm, aiding in self-regulation. It can improve focus and concentration, jumpstart the ability to make connections, fire up the imagination, and help with problem-solving skills.