Introduction
Young children are active and inquisitive.
Everything is worth exploration with all of
their senses. Their minds and bodies are
growing at a phenomenal pace, developing neural
connections they will use for the rest of their lives.
Learning is everything; experience is everything.
Whether it is the taste of a carrot freshly picked
from the garden, the sight of sunlight on a dewdrop,
or the sound of music made with some rocks found
in the yard, young children are making discoveries
and creating connections. They are beginning to
understand their individuality and the individuality
of others. They are beginning to build relationships
between themselves and others and between
themselves and the world around them. Providing
opportunities for the growth and development of
the whole child, opportunities to develop a sense
of wonder about nature, and earnest engagement in
discovery about the real world are the foundation
for learning in early childhood. It is vital for early
childhood environmental education programs to
build this foundation.