Outdoor Environment
At Parkside, we believe that outdoor play is essential to a child’s growth, well-being, and development. Time spent outside provides children with opportunities to explore, discover, and engage with the natural world while developing important social, emotional, and physical skills.
Through a variety of outdoor activities, children play and work together, learning how to communicate, cooperate, and problem-solve in real time. Collaborative play helps focus and channel their energy in positive ways, fostering concentration, self-confidence, and resilience. As they navigate challenges, take risks, and make decisions, they build independence and self-help skills that extend beyond the playground.
Outdoor play also nurtures a sense of wonder and curiosity. Whether tending to a garden, engaging in imaginative play, or exploring the changing seasons, children develop an appreciation for nature and a deeper connection to their environment. Physical activity supports their overall health, improving coordination, strength, and motor skills while allowing them to release energy in a joyful and constructive way.
At Parkside, we intentionally design outdoor experiences that complement Montessori principles, allowing children to move freely, engage in purposeful work, and build confidence in their abilities. Through active exploration and shared experiences, they develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth.
Why Parkside
The name Parkside reflects both our deep connection to nature and our Montessori roots. Our school’s spacious outdoor environment sits alongside Claude Moore Park, offering children endless opportunities to explore the beauty of the natural world. Each month, our students embark on guided hikes through the park’s scenic trails, immersing themselves in hands-on learning experiences that foster curiosity, observation, and a deep appreciation for seasonal changes.
True to Montessori philosophy, we believe that nature is a child’s first classroom—an environment that encourages independence, exploration, and a sense of wonder. Outdoor learning is woven into our curriculum, allowing children to develop confidence, resilience, and a connection to the world around them. Through these experiences, they cultivate respect for nature, an understanding of ecological systems, and the freedom to move, discover, and grow.
The name Parkside also pays homage to our location in Sterling Park, a vibrant community with a rich history. The leaves in our logo are a tribute to the Sterling Park signage, symbolizing growth, transformation, and our commitment to nurturing each child’s potential.
At Parkside, learning extends beyond the classroom walls. Whether observing wildlife, feeling the crisp air of autumn, or experiencing the renewal of spring, our students engage with the world in meaningful ways—developing a lifelong love of learning and a deep connection to the environment around them.
