2009-11-20 20:23:02 -

Inspired by the educational concept that outdoor learning and play enriches and contributes to the well being, health, and social development of children, Kaiser Permanente Watts Counseling and Learning Center : today unveiled and dedicated an environmentally friendly outdoor learning space for its Preschool Education for Parents and Children (PEPC). "This newly designed outdoor space is a place where young bodies and minds can grow alongside trees, vegetables and grass," said Joanne Robinson, M.Ed, executive director of the Watts Center. “We are very pleased to be able to offer our community preschool children an outdoor learning area that is inviting, exciting and fun.”


The outside classroom complements what the children learn by exploring nature. For example, science

lessons discussed inside would become a hands-on experience in a living environment. The outdoor space is interactive, giving children a place to climb, dig, and take in the sights, sounds and scents of their park-like surroundings.

"This renovated outdoor learning space was created to be an extension of the indoor learning environment," said Vikki Franklin, M.A., preschool manager. “It is rich with opportunities for children to explore, discover and interact with nature and each other.” The well-designed learning space is nearly 3,000 square feet and features scrubs and vines such as Ginkgo Biloba, Fortnight Lilies, Heavenly Bamboo, Hibiscus Huegeli, and Boston Ivy.

The state licensed preschool opened in 1971 and in 2005 received accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. It is the only nationally accredited preschool in its three surrounding zip codes. Twenty preschoolers attend the preschool located at 1465 E 103rd St. at the corner of Success and 103rd Street.



ABOUT KAISER PERMANENTE WATTS COUNSELING AND LEARNING CENTER

For more than 40 years, the Center has offered free or low-cost counseling, summer camps, and preschool for families living in the greater Watts area. The families need not be members of Kaiser Permanente to utilize the Center’s services. For details about all the Center’s services, call (323) 564-7911. For more information about Kaiser Permanente, visit www.kaiserpermanente.org : .


Kaiser PermanenteSouthern California RegionMarie Y. LemelleOffice:

626-405-5384Mobile: 818-912-0014 marie.y.lemelle@kp.org : mailto:marie.y.lemelle@kp.org