Create a Schoolyard Habitat
Certify Now!Today's children are the first generation to grow up plugged into electronic media and isolated from nature. To help reconnect kids to the outdoors, the National Wildlife Federation assists schools in developing outdoor classrooms called Schoolyard Habitats®, where educators and students learn how to attract and support local wildlife. These habitats become places where students not only learn about wildlife species and ecosystems, but also where they hone their academic skills and nurture their innate curiosity and creativity.
Schoolyard Habitats® Overview:
The National Wildlife Federation has encouraged individuals and communities to create and conserve wildlife habitat since 1973, when the Backyard Wildlife Habitat™ program began. In 1996, the Schoolyard Habitats program was created to meet the growing interest and distinct needs of schools and school districts in creating and restoring wildlife habitat on school grounds. The Schoolyard Habitats program focuses specifically on assisting school communities in the use of school grounds as learning sites for wildlife conservation and cross-curricular learning.
The entire school community can become involved in creating valuable habitat for wildlife in your neighborhood. While creating a dynamic outdoor classroom, and expanding educational opportunities for teachers and students, you will also be creating positive change in your local environment. Learn more...
Schoolyard Habitats® benefit students, teachers, communities and wildlife:
- Students exhibit increased comprehension, performance and motivation.
- Teachers have a local site for interdisciplinary studies.
- More opportunities and resources for creative instruction
- Reduced costs for school grounds upkeep and maintenance.
- Restores available habitat that gives local wildlife food, water, cover and places to raise their offspring.
More Schoolyard Habitat® Resources:
- Frequently Asked Questions about Schoolyard Habitats®
- Schoolyard Habitats Lesson Plans
- Ideas for where to get help in your community
- "The Schoolyard Habitat Movement: What it Is and Why Children Need It" by Mary Rivkin, Ph.D.
- "Down By the Schoolyard" by Stephen R. Coffee
- Educator Resources
Schoolyard Habitats® is a part of the National Wildlife Federation's Be Out There™ initiative, which aims to inspire families across America to open the door and get outside! A daily dose of the outdoors improves children's physical, mental and emotional well-being. Join the Be Out There movement to get children outside, connecting to nature. The benefits of outdoor play are real: healthier kids with a life-long appreciation of wildlife and nature.
