Roosevelt Island Explorers Children's Garden Grows In Southtown - Parents, Children And Educators Working Together To Form An Outdoor Roosevelt Island Learning Environment

Image Of Roosevelt Island 455 Main Street Children's Garden

A Roosevelt Island Children's Garden is growing in Southtown on the lawn behind 455 Main Street. The garden initiative was organized by local resident Leila Vujosevic and the Roosevelt Island Explorers (RIEX).

Image From RIEC's Leila Vujocevic

According to Ms. Vujocevic:

Roosevelt Island Explorers is a group of experienced educators and professionals exploring the possibilities for a rich early childhood program on Roosevelt Island. Our work is grounded in deep respect for children’s competencies and a strong belief in their ability to figure out the world around them, our fascination with Roosevelt Island as a distinctive learning environment, and our inspiration by the Reggio Emilia experience, internationally recognized as a model of excellence in early childhood education .

This summer, we have initiated and sponsored a Children’s Garden at 455 Main Street.

Image From RIEC's Leila Vujocevic

Together with children,

Image From RIEC's Leila Vujocevic

their families,

Image From RIEC's Leila Vujocevic

and with generous support from the building management and staff, we have created an outdoor classroom,

Image From RIEC's Leila Vujocevic

which has become a joyful place for explorations and strengthening our close community. This is only a metaphor for what we believe could become a deep and bonding learning experience for young children, their families and the larger Roosevelt Island community.

Image From RIEC's Leila Vujocevic

We hope to engage other groups and individuals who care about young children in a conversation about possibilities for an early childhood education experience unique for our magnificent Island.

Image From RIEC's Leila Vujocevic

More information on the RIEX Children's Garden, educational philosophy and other information is available at their web site here.