A concrete parking lot at Oak Grove Lutheran School in Fargo will transform into a playground filled with green space that doubles as an outdoor classroom.
Landscape architects this weekend will prepare earthen mounds and install equipment at the private school's elementary site, 2720 32nd Ave. S, the school announced Friday.
Oak Grove parents are purchasing trees, shrubs and bushes for the project in honor of students.
The playground will serve as a classroom where pupils will study science, biology, geology, math and environmental studies, according to a news release from the school.
"Natural playgrounds" are a growing trend at elementary schools and childcare centers.
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Last year Clay-Wilkin Head Start in Moorhead replaced a playground made of sand, shredded rubber and a slide with flowering plants, tall grasses and a makeshift beach.
Roberta Lein, Head Start early education coordinator, said the effort coincided with research that found children "play differently when they interact with nature."
She said research shows children play more calmly and other emotional needs can be met by integrating nature into play spaces.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Melinda Rogers at (701) 241-5524
