Preschool on the Go: 6 Outdoor Learning Must-Haves

Preschool doesn’t have to happen at a desk… or even inside your home! Some of our favorite learning moments have happened while exploring the world around us, and bringing a few simple supplies along makes it surprisingly easy. Here’s a look at what we packed for our Preschool-On-The-Go adventure and how we used it to turn an ordinary vacation into a week of successful outdoor learning!

Why Preschool Belongs Outside

As a previous classroom teacher, I understand the benefits of being in a structured environment, full of all the supplies and resources you could ever need. As I have turned into a stay-at-home mom/homeschool teacher though, I have learned about the immense possibilities of bringing the learning outside.

It opens up doors to so many unique learning opportunities that would otherwise never come across your desk (such as this giant praying mantis!), while still allowing you to complete your everyday tasks. It’s also been linked to lower stress and greater academic performance 💡

With the right set of supplies, a general plan, and a can-do mindset, you’ll be set for a week of outdoor learning just like we were. So grab those keys and open those doors, we are going on a learning adventure!

Our Preschool On-the-Go Essentials:

Here’s everything we packed in our Preschool-On-The-Go tote; Most of it we already had lying around! It wasn’t about buying all new things made for the outdoors, but grabbing the essentials that would work for wherever we were headed.

• Storage Tote: I had an extra one from a sensory bin that was given to us, but you can use anything really! As long as it fits these other items, you’re set.
  
  
• Lap Whiteboard + Marker: There are too many activity possibilities with this item to not include it, with anything from writing, to math, and even art! Here are 3 no-prep whiteboard activities that we have done inside and outdoors.
  
  
• Themed Book(s): If you are planning a trip somewhere unique, try finding some books about the area! It’s great to relate the images and facts you’re reading to things you see 🔭

• Number Blocks: These served a few purposes for us and they were really handy. We could practice number recognition, addition, and they were great for building towers with!
  
  
• Play-Doh: Another super versatile tool that’s insanely easy to pack. You can use it for anything from building shapes, to doing leaf impressions, to having a sensory break!
  (Disclaimer: Play-Doh apparently tastes good to foxes, so don’t leave your tubs out in nature too long 😬)
  
  
• Crayons + Paper: This is a no-brainer. A box of crayons is the perfect on-the-go art supply, with no sharpener needed or worries of them drying out. Throw some scrap paper in and you’re set!

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Getting Started with Outdoor Learning Activities:

Outdoor learning activities don’t need to be labor-intensive or time consuming. The best activities are the ones that encourage an exploration of nature, and support meaningful moments together! Here’s an activity that is super simple and requires no supplies:

Rainbow Scavenger Hunt

• Explain the game: Gather your family and explain that you will be hunting for every color of the rainbow – out in nature! You can either pick/grab the item, or simply take a picture of it.
  *Make sure to brief on not-safe plants, and leaving people’s personal gardens alone*
  
  
• Take time to explore: The purpose of this game isn’t only to practice naming colors, it’s also to gain a more in-depth appreciation of the flora and fauna around you!
  
  
• Celebrate your success: Maybe each member of your family found a whole rainbow, or maybe you each took a few colors. Either way, you practiced color names, working together, and scanning your unique environment!

Final Thoughts

Taking preschool outside has reminded me that learning opportunities are truly everywhere. You don’t need a classroom full of supplies or a perfectly planned lesson, just a few versatile essentials, a little creativity, and a willingness to explore! Whether you’re heading to the park, the beach, or simply your own backyard, nature can be one of the best classrooms your child has.

❤️ Until next time