Johnson Nature Center Unveils New Outdoor Classroom

The Johnson Nature Center showcased its new outdoor classroom at a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week. The space features a brand new pavilion, a newly-built picnic table and garden boxes, a freshly-painted shed, and several outdoor learning stations designed to inspire creativity and exploration. 

The project was made possible through the generous support of the Alix Foundation and Christine and Scott Alix, the Cohen Foundation, the Rotary Club of Bloomfield Hills, a Placemaking Realtor Grant, and other community contributors. Several volunteers assisted with renovations, including students in the Interact Club at Bloomfield Hills High School. 

TreeSchool students (ages 3 to 5) and their families were instrumental in the design and testing of the space. The young learners were delighted to observe the building process in real-time, watching and even interviewing builders as each component came together. TreeSchool students will use the outdoor classroom daily as part of the program; others will have the opportunity to explore the space through summer camps, scout programs, and special events hosted by JNC.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, families and children explored the various outdoor learning stations. These included art and storytelling areas, an outdoor play kitchen, a tented reading nook, a fort made out of tree branches, and a “risky play” zone where children are invited to climb tree stumps and jump between them. Families could also fish from the dock, look for animals in the water, and engage in water play on the lawn. 

The TreeSchool program offers these experiences and more on a daily basis, outdoors in all types of weather. “I like playing in the mud,” said TreeSchool student Lila Reinhold with a smile. Indeed, messy and playful exploration is openly encouraged in the program.

The Johnson Nature Center extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the donors, community members, and volunteers who contributed to the project. The new outdoor classroom promises to be a cherished resource, nurturing the love of nature and learning for generations to come.