Rooted in Nature

At Sunnyside Academy, we deeply value the role nature plays in a child’s development and learning. We know that the benefits of being outdoors go far beyond fresh air and physical activity—time spent in nature is a powerful contributor to cognitive growth, emotional regulation, social development, and academic success. Research shows that being in natural environments reduces stress, improves attention and mood, and enhances creativity and problem-solving skills. Nature provides the ideal backdrop for experiential, hands-on learning that ignites curiosity and supports a child's natural desire to explore, discover, and understand the world around them.

That’s why we strive to be outside every day, not just for recess or breaks, but as an extension of our learning environment. We incorporate outdoor field studies, group games, botany lessons, gardening projects, hikes, and observational activities that encourage students to engage with the living world. These experiences help children develop a deep respect for the environment, connect academic concepts to real-life applications, and build a sense of responsibility and wonder. Whether we’re studying plant life, mapping trails, journaling about the sounds of a stream, or simply pausing to observe the changing seasons, we believe that nature offers invaluable lessons—and we make it a priority to bring those lessons to life.