Why Montessori Has Always Believed in Outdoor Learning!
Long before the term “forest school” became trendy, Montessori educators were already guiding children outdoors every day — because nature‑based learning has always been a foundational part of our philosophy.
In Montessori education, time spent outdoors isn’t an add‑on, or a trend — it’s a core part of how children learn and thrive. Dr. Montessori observed that children are happiest when they can move freely, explore their environment, and connect with the natural world. Nature offers an endless invitation to wonder: the changing seasons, the textures of the earth, the quiet details that spark curiosity. When children step outside, they aren’t just “getting fresh air.” They’re engaging in purposeful, joyful learning that supports their whole development.
At West Side Montessori, our campuses were intentionally designed to honor this philosophy. Our Toledo campus sits on 37 acres of woods, trails, and open green space, giving children daily access to a landscape that inspires exploration. Both campuses feature gorgeous natural playgrounds where children climb, dig, build, imagine, and collaborate — experiences that strengthen confidence, independence, and emotional well‑being. Outdoor learning isn’t a special event here; it’s woven into the rhythm of every day, every season, and every stage of development.
Year‑round outdoor education is one of the most joyful parts of our school culture. Whether children are observing animal tracks in winter, tending gardens in spring, or studying pond life in fall, they learn to appreciate the beauty and responsibility of caring for the natural world. These experiences help children regulate their emotions, develop resilience, and return to the classroom more grounded and ready for purposeful work. Simply put: children are happier when they spend meaningful time outside — and Montessori has known this for more than a century.
For years, our Fisher Outdoor Education Program has deepened this connection by giving students structured opportunities to explore, question, and discover. Soon, that vision will expand even further with The Den, our new multi‑use outdoor education building. The Den will offer space for science experiments, seasonal observations, nature‑inspired art, and community gatherings — all rooted in the belief that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. It’s a natural extension of what Montessori has always practiced: honoring the child’s relationship with nature and creating environments where curiosity can flourish.
Toledo Campus
Perrysburg Campus
West Side Montessori is an independent, accredited Montessori school educating children from 6 weeks old through 8th grade (infant, toddler, preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, and middle school). We are one of the leading private schools in Toledo and the nation.
WSM does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic origin, race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability in the administration of its admission policy, educational policy, or any school-administered program.
WSM does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic origin, race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability in the administration of its admission policy, educational policy, or any school-administered program.