The Montessori concept of the “Prepared Environment”, that the schoolhouse should be designed to facilitate independent learning and exploration, fits well with The Natural Learning Initiative’s (NLI) focus on designing the outdoor environment so that children will have the opportunity to discover nature and the joy of playing outside.  This connection is evident in the designs NLI developed for Montessori Schools at several sites in North Carolina and in Ithaca, NY.

Collaborations between NLI and the North American Montessori Teacher’s Association (NAMTA) have resulted in several NAMTA Journal articles and presentations at NAMTA conferences in 2006 and 2009.

The journal articles are available here:

• Sensory Integration and Contact with Nature: Designing Outdoor Inclusive Environments
• Greening Montessori Schoolgrounds by Design
• Outdoor Settings for Playing and Learning:  Designing School Grounds to Meet the Needs of the Whole Child and Whole Curriculum