Gathering & Tour: DCDEE North Central Region
As part of the two-year project Supporting Naturalized Outdoor Play and Learning Environments in North Carolina Child Care Facilities, the Natural Learning Initiative (NLI) hosted a regional Gathering & Tour at The Growing Place Child Care Center, Asheboro, NC. Sponsored by the Department of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE), this event provided an opportunity to explore best practices for outdoor play and learning environments (OPLEs) in action.
The Growing Place began transforming its outdoor spaces in 2011 with an NLI design created through the Shape NC initiative. By building support among church and local community members, the center undertook incremental developments to create a diverse, naturalized space for children.
The Gathering & Tour aimed to inform and inspire childcare providers—especially those without inviting outdoor play and learning environments at their centers—about the significant benefits these environments offer. These environments foster physical, emotional, and cognitive development by giving children opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and play in natural settings.
Participants attended a presentation on the principles and advantages of outdoor play and learning environments, supported by research and real-world examples. This was followed by a tour of The Growing Place, where attendees observed the integration of outdoor spaces into daily activities. This firsthand experience demonstrated how thoughtful design and effective use of these environments enhance both learning and the overall operations of the center.
The event empowered childcare providers with practical ideas and inspiration to implement or advocate for similar outdoor play and learning environments in their own programs.
Presentation and Activities
Nilda greets guests at the Gathering & Tour, sharing insights about the exciting experiences they can look forward to exploring.
Catherine Davis, the Director, shares her center’s journey in gradually developing their Outdoor Play and Learning Environment (OPLE).
Alberta Forney explains how an Outdoor Play and Learning Environment (OPLE) has positively impacted the health and well-being of the children at her center.
The Trogdon family demonstrated creative, natural ways to engage children in reading using painted stones, loose parts, and other materials.
Posters highlight the developmental journey of the host center, The Growing Place.
The Growing Place posters continued.
Preschool Area
Welcome to The Growing Place’s Outdoor Play and Learning Environment (OPLE)!
Two girls enjoy the shade of the river birch trees as they settle in for some afternoon reading.
A sensory pathway is best experienced barefoot.
Bamboo cuttings and other loose parts offer intriguing materials to enhance earth play.
A curious child confidently climbs a tree, exploring and strengthening their skills.
