Nature Learning Experiences

Nature Learning Experiences Through Investigation

At Growing Green, nature learning is not a standalone activity—it’s a living, evolving exploration of the world around us. Investigations are at the heart of this approach.

What Are Investigations?
Investigations are extended, inquiry-based studies driven by children's curiosity and real-world experiences. These studies encourage children to:

Make close observations
Ask questions and form theories
Interact with natural materials and living things
Experiment with their ideas
Gather information and reflect on what they’ve learned

Rooted in science and sustainability, investigation topics are chosen based on children's interests and their everyday experiences in the environment. This makes learning relevant, meaningful, and engaging.

Investigate.
Discover.
Protect.

Why Investigations Matter for Sustainability

Investigations in nature foster deep connections to the Earth. As children explore concepts like weather patterns, water cycles, plant growth, decomposition, and habitats, they gain firsthand knowledge of how natural systems work—and how we can care for them.

These experiences encourage:

Empathy for living things
Environmental responsibility
Systems thinking
Problem-solving and creative solutions

Learning With the Earth, Not Just About It

Real-World Application

Because investigations unfold over time, they create space for authentic learning experiences. For example:

Composting leftovers from snack time becomes an inquiry into decomposition.
Noticing fewer bees on the playground leads to a study of pollinators.
Rain puddles spark curiosity about water conservation and stormwater.

Assessing Growth Through Inquiry

A thoughtful assessment system accompanies each investigation. Teachers document children's learning through observations, conversations, and collected work. This helps track both content knowledge and developmental growth, guiding instruction in a responsive and intentional way.

Sample Investigation Topics for Nature-Based Sustainability Learning:

Where Does Our Food Come From?
How Do Plants Grow in Different Environments?
Who Lives in the Garden?
What Happens to Our Trash?
How Can We Use Water Wisely?
How Do Seasons Change Our Playground?
What Makes a Good Habitat?

Rooted in Curiosity, Grounded in Science.

GUIDED BY CHILDREN'S QUESTIONS, CONNECTED TO THE WORLD AROUND THEM.

Each investigation begins with a simple question---often sparked by a child's observation or shared classroom interest. These extended studies evolve naturally, connecting to key science concepts and sustainable practices. They support children in building critical thinking skills, environmental empathy, and an authentic connection to the world around them.

Guided Discovery Explorations

This two-part resource series invites young children to explore science and sustainability through hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences centered around natural elements and everyday materials. The Puddle guide encourages observation, sensory engagement, and scientific questioning through outdoor water play, fostering curiosity and early scientific thinking. The Fabric guide introduces children to textiles—where they come from, how they’re used, and what happens when they’re no longer needed—while promoting environmental stewardship, creativity, and fine motor skills through sustainable textile activities. Each guide is structured using a learning framework that includes Discover, Engage, Inquire, Examine, Explore, Extend, and Evaluate, supporting both independent exploration and collaborative discovery in early childhood settings.

Nature isn't just the Setting...It's the Teacher.

INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING THAT GROWS WITH CHILDREN

Through long-term, hands-on investigations, children explore real-world questions and develop a deeper understanding of their environment. Whether they’re tracking worms in the garden, testing how water moves, or wondering where trash goes, children are encouraged to observe, experiment, and reflect.