The Arlitt Nature PlayScape

The Arlitt Nature PlayScape is located on a previously underused campus space at the University of Cincinnati. The redesigned space opened on August 15th, 2012, as an outdoor classroom rich in natural elements that offer children diverse opportunities for learning while meeting the high standards of the University Campus Architect.   While providing preschool children daily nature-oriented play and learning experiences, the Nature PlayScape also promotes an understanding and love of the natural world, has allowed teachers to extend the indoor curriculum outdoors, has provided a research venue generating numerous studies and publications on early childhood development, and serves local educators in furthering their professional development in early childhood. The PlayScape is open to all 24/7 and is a model for families who want to create backyard nature-oriented gardens. The collaborative design process included team members in the field of education, architecture, landscape architecture and environmental graphics.