With summer in full swing, we all are spending time outdoors with our children. Maria Montessori viewed the outdoor environment as an extension of the indoor - meaning it, too, should be orderly, offer purposeful work to do, and allow for independence..and movement!

Take a look at your back and front yards. Is there space for movement? Is there meaningful work activity for your child to participate in?

Take a look at these ideas below. Create your own activity under each category. Don't feel pressure to do all of these. Pick a few, emphasizing the quality of the experience for your child and and remember to have fun!

Developing the senses:
Lay out a blanket for cloud gazing. At night, gaze at stars.
Is it raining outside? Put on your rainboots, go outside, and feel the rain in your hands as it falls!
Language:
Learn the names of the plants, trees, shrubs, and flowers in your yard. Point those out to your child. Learn the names of those plants and trees that line your block. Share the names with your child on your walks.
Exploring Nature:
Plant milkweed. Observe caterpillars.
Listen for birds. Can you name them? Learn the names and share them with your child.
Later, find pictures of birds in a book together.
Care of the Environment:
Place a small dust brush and dust pan on a shelf. Show your child how to help as spills happen.
Show your child how to scoop out the pet food and pour into the animals' bowl. Create an independent activity that fits the feed schedule, i.e. once or twice a day.

Rinse recycleables and then sort them together with your child, teaching him or her the names of products and category identification, i.e. plastics, paper, and aluminum items

Set up small table or work space for art, music, and/or planting activities. Place a watering can on a shelf that your child can access. Let your child fill the can and help water plants and flowers.