5 Steps to the Wonderful World of Willow Structures
5 Steps to the Wonderful World of Willow Structures
Willow Structures are a great addition to any Outdoor Classroom.
A small group of creative gardeners from The First Church in Salem, Massachusetts created a fantastic Willow Structure in an effort to develop some kid friendly areas outdoors.
Today I wanted to share a little of their story, steps they took and lessons learned in hope that you will be inspired to add a Willow Structure to your Outdoor Classroom. Welcome to the Wonderful World of Willow Structures.
Step One: Observe the Outdoor space and see where children are playing.
The First Parish Church gardeners described, “The garden space is used by a herd of preschoolers after their nursery school class is over.
Step Two: Brainstorm your vision
Gardeners noted, “One of our thoughts was to make a willow tunnel or structure in an area where the kids already like to play (and where they have been destroying the perennials).”
Step Three: Research
The First Parish Church Gardeners noted, ” We found a grower for our Willow Structure kit. Learn more here: Willows Vermont Thank you Lynn Taggart and Jan Eschauzier for your inspiration and fantastic
Step Four: Gather an Installation Team & Install!
Don’t forget to take pictures.
Step Five: Water and Enjoy!!!
Thank you Lynn Taggart and Jan Eschauzier for your inspiration and fantastic photos.
Now I want to hear from you. Do you have a Willow Structure in your Outdoor Classroom? What activities can you imagine children embarking in within this space? Leave a comment below.
About Victoria Hackett, M.Ed. My mission is for every child in every school to have access to an Outdoor Classroom. Therefore, I inspire educators to teach outdoors and lead an on-line virtual community of Natural Teachers all over the world to create their own Outdoor Classroom story. |
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1 Comment
I love the willow structures. What a fun way to create a pathway or fort. I understand that willow branches can be purchased in local nurseries and planted in March for growth in the summer.