[Photo credit: Mary Turner]

Hello from Mimi’s House Family Child Care in West Lansing, Michigan! With over 20 years as a licensed early educator, I’ve seen how a natural outdoor classroom benefits children. All children deserve the chance to connect with the world around them, which is why I became a Certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom. At Mimi’s House, we embrace Michigan’s four seasons, exploring the changing weather in our outdoor classroom, rain or shine. Our days include stomping puddles, building snow dens, creating art in the garden, bug watching, caring for our plants, and following the children’s interests and play. We also have several gardens—a pollinator garden, butterfly garden, kitchen garden, herb garden, grow tunnel, pumpkin patch, and a “grow a row” bed to donate to the community. In 2024, we were honored with the Michigan Grow More Award for our commitment to agriculture education, nutrition, and gardening. Our outdoor space is designed to engage the children’s seven senses, foster inclusivity, and encourage free exploration and discovery.

ADVERTISEMENT

Tips from Mimi’s House

[Photo credit: Mary Turner]

1. Invest in nature-based training. Look for free or low-cost options to spark fresh ideas and motivate your goals.

2. Start a simple garden. Use available materials, like a storage tote with drainage holes, and involve children in planning and planting.

3. Be resourceful. Use free natural resources, repurpose items, and seek grants or seed exchange events. Join local social media groups for donations, share your vision with child care families, and reach out to businesses for support.

4. Create a vision board. Set goals for helping children connect with nature, plan outdoor enhancements, and brainstorm ways to overcome program-specific challenges.