Outdoor Pedagogy Takes Root in Lyon Nurseries: Jeanne Barret Leads the Way
Lyon, July 15 – Lyon’s early childhood education is embracing a new approach with the opening of the Jeanne Barret nursery in the 5th arrondissement. Following the example of the Mandela Park nursery, this new facility, which opened in June, welcomes 20 children from 15 months old and places a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, including naps and meals, even in the event of rain.
On Wednesday morning, despite a few raindrops, the children at Jeanne Barret nursery were undeterred, improvising a “rain dance” with their caregivers. Clémence Nayrand, director of the Jeanne Barret nursery, highlighted the adaptability of the children: “We have the possibility to equip children when it rains, when it’s cold… When it’s hot, we adapt activities, we do water games. And ultimately, we realize that children worry much less than we do about the weather.”
700 m² of Garden and a Backup Room
The nursery boasts a 700 m² outdoor space featuring lawns, wooden games, and wooded areas. A covered shelter provides protection from the elements, and in case of truly adverse weather, a backup room with natural ventilation can accommodate up to 9 children. During extreme heatwaves, parents who were able kept their children at home, having been informed in advance about the nursery’s operating procedures during such conditions.
Benefits for Child Development and Staff Recruitment
The opening of the Jeanne Barret nursery aligns with a broader initiative in Lyon to integrate more outdoor learning into nurseries, drawing inspiration from the Scandinavian model. Lisa Gauthier, Deputy Mayor of Lyon for Early Childhood, emphasized the multiple benefits: “It is beneficial for the development of children, but also for the nursery professionals.” In a sector often struggling with recruitment, the outdoor nursery paradoxically received more applications than available positions, indicating the appeal of this innovative approach.
A Growing Trend in Lyon
This initiative is not isolated. The first outdoor nursery in Lyon, located in Mandela Park, also champions bringing children closer to nature. This trend reflects a commitment from the city’s authorities, dating back to the previous mandate, to invest more in outdoor education within early childhood facilities.
The emphasis on outdoor activities is believed to foster children’s development by providing a stimulating environment that encourages physical activity, sensory exploration, and a deeper connection with nature. For the staff, working in such an environment can lead to increased job satisfaction and a more dynamic professional experience.
The success of Jeanne Barret nursery, both in terms of child engagement and staff interest, suggests a positive future for outdoor pedagogy in Lyon. This model not only enriches the children’s learning experience but also offers a fresh perspective on early childhood care in urban settings.
Source: https://www.radioscoop.com/infos/la-sieste-et-les-repas-dehors-a-lyon-une-nouvelle-creche-mise-sur-le-plein-air_360014
