Storytelling is a major component of early literacy development, which can be challenging when children are still developing their basic printing skills. Recently I discovered story stones to help my students practice their oral language skills, and discover the joy...
Earth Day is a time to reflect and think about ways we can all lead more sustainable lives. It is the opportunity to take the time to come up with changes we can implement, both big and small, that will help preserve and protect our planet. At Natural Pod, children’s...
Collaborating to Create Better Learning Environments ~ At Natural Pod, we have the fortune of working with a wide array of stakeholders who aspire to create better learning environments. Recently, we worked with Dave Ferguson, Principal at ZMM Architects in West...
Learning Support Environments require special planning to ensure that it meets the needs of the students that it serves. Consideration needs to be made to ensure that there are a variety of useful spaces and that the spaces create options for students to feel...
There is a common belief that today’s schools are moving away from the idea of creativity in the classroom due to new education standards. Yet it is possible for innovative thinking to be part of your students’ daily experience no matter the curriculum. The best...
Creating an outstanding learning space where educators enjoy working and kids experience great learning outcomes has never been more important. Learning is changing and educators are exploring new ways of bringing 21st century experiences into their classrooms. One...
Did you know that you have the tools to help ensure a learning environment for your students that is healthy and enhances academic performance? Did you know that almost everything you do that has a positive effect on personal health can also help protect the health of...
We know you want what’s best for your students. You want them to be healthy, happy, and in an environment in which they can perform at their best. Did you know that you already have many of the tools at your fingertips necessary to create the ultimate green classroom?...
Sometimes on rainy days it is a challenge to get our students outside. While I like to think that we shouldn’t let the rain stop us, sometimes it’s nice to have a cozy day inside. On the days when we are out in nature I like to collect a selection of items that can be...
Whether you realize it or not, every day you have the ability to empower your students to become stewards of our amazing planet. From modeling positive behaviors, to making curricular connections, to fostering a sustainable classroom environment, there are countless...
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” The above quote exemplifies the essence of one of the latest and most impactful trends in 21st Century classroom learning, project based learning. Project based learning (PBL) is a...
Have you ever found it difficult to breathe in a room after purchasing new furniture or applying a fresh coat of paint? And have you ever been forced to avoid spaces as a result of those overwhelming smells? Do you wonder what is in those nasty fumes you are...
There are many different types of learners and your environment should, ideally, be able to accommodate them all. Scientists and psychologists have developed a number of different models to understand the different ways that people learn best. The VARK model,...
Looking to bring some warmth, light, and cheer to your classroom during the long winter months? Read on to learn ways to help you and your students beat the winter blues! Bring on the light: Light tables can brighten up any area in your room with their subtle...
Creating flexible, dynamic learning environments is essential to meeting our 21st century learners where they are. Presenting students with choice and allowing them to take charge of their learning is vital when arranging a successful learning space. Megan Baker, a...
An essential to most primary classrooms is a sensory table of some kind, whether it’s a traditional sandbox or another variant such as lentils, bubbles, or water. Sensory tables provide an excellent opportunity for students to experience their senses in a free-play...
Imagine the feeling you get upon entering a room filled with light and natural elements. Have you ever wondered how this type of environment affects how children think and feel? Have you considered the impact that they have on a child’s ability to learn and absorb...
On September 30th 2016 the Forest Stewardship Council invites you to participate in FSC® Friday, a global celebration of responsible forestry. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate responsible forestry in Canada and worldwide. At Natural Pod all of our furniture...
Most of us know that being outdoors has calming and restorative powers. We also know that it can reduce stress and improve mood. But did you know that it can also help connect us to one another and improve attention and focus? Research has shown that children who...
School is back in session and you are getting back to routines, getting to know your students, and getting to know your classroom. Now is the perfect time to set up a flexible classroom that will set you and your students up for success. Did you know that your...
Sprig, the last classroom table you’ll ever need
