How Outdoor Learning Facilitates Preschool Language Immersion

Benefits of Language Immersion
April 29, 2022

KSS Preschool Outdoor Learning

It’s that time of the year again in San Francisco. The sweet bay trees have blossomed, and the temperatures are rising, so it can only mean one thing — spring has sprung! This season, KSS Preschool will open its doors and encourage our young language learners to participate in outdoor educational and recreational activities. Here’s why we think outdoor learning is a great idea: 

Learning Outdoors Could Boost Educational Achievement

Research suggests that outdoor learning could improve academic outcomes for children. In one study, researchers divided 255 school children into two groups: The first group participated in teaching activities outside, while the second group received education indoors. 

The results? The children who attended the ‘outdoor school’ increased their test scores by 27 percent compared to the ‘indoor’ group. Moreover, the children who studied outside received higher ratings for self-esteem, learning motivation, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and relationship-building.

While this study examined school-aged children, kids who learn a second language outdoors at an immersion preschool could experience similar results. KSS Preschool will combine indoor and outdoor learning this spring, providing young language learners with the best-quality education and learning support.

Read more: How Language Immersion Teachers Make an Impact

Learning Outdoors Could Lead to All Kinds of Health Benefits

The health benefits for children who spend time outdoors are almost limitless. Here are some of the ones parents need to know about:

  • Regular and safe exposure to the sun can boost the intake of vitamin D, one of the body’s most essential nutrients. Topping up vitamin D levels might result in healthier bones and support good immune function. 
  • Studies show that spending time in the sun is good for getting a restful night’s sleep. Going outdoors can regulate the body’s temperature and sleep-wake cycle. That can help preschoolers who might have trouble sleeping at night.
  • A green, natural environment can be beneficial for mental health and reduce the stress hormone cortisol. 

Read more: The Lifelong Benefits of Early Learning Language Immersion

Mother Nature Might Inspire Language Acquisition

Mother Nature might inspire children who learn a new language outdoors. Surrounded by visual stimulation such as trees, plants, flowers, and wildlife, preschoolers can learn foreign-language words for everything they encounter in outdoor environments and develop their vocabulary skills. 

Being outside can also improve socio-emotional development in young language learners. Students can explore nature together and develop life-long relationships. 

Read more: Language Immersion Can Improve Your Child’s First Language

These are just some of the benefits for children who spend time learning a second language like Spanish outside. This spring, many of our language learners will take part in educational and social activities in the great outdoors and develop new skills and relationships. 

KSS Preschool is a Spanish language immersion preschool for children aged 2-6 in the San Fransisco Bay area. Schedule a tour or apply nowOur curriculum includes language acquisition, as well as creative activities such as cooking, singing, dancing, and art projects.