Bee Balm Learning Center Outdoor Space
Donation protected
With the recent announcements by the CDC as well as Public Health Madison Dane County I am sure many of us are feeling some levels of relief and gratitude. On the other hand, I am sure we are also feeling some trepidation in regards to what this means for our safety and future. As we all adjust we must think about what this means for ourselves, families, communities, and our children.
The child care industry, like many industries, was hit hard by the pandemic. Many centers were forced to close. Luckily, with the support of our families and dedication of our team Bee Balm Learning Center was able to remain open. I want to take this opportunity to discover what Bee Balm will look like post pandemic. I find myself asking questions like; in what ways can we help children work through their feelings of uncertainty and fear, and how can we help reduce stress and build resiliency among the children, families, and team members.
Amidst the pandemic our outdoor spaces were spaces of safety and freedom for both our team members and children. It was a place where they were allowed to take a mask break and explore and play without as many worries of social distancing and germs.
In further reflection of our company values of lifelong learning, community, and celebration of individuality, I realize our outdoor spaces are the perfect place to invest to meet our post pandemic goals. These spaces should reflect a place where children come to learn through hands on experiences. They are not just playgrounds for running, climbing, and jumping, but rather a place that develops all their skills, including; cognitive, language, social, and emotional. Additionally, it has been proven that connections with the outdoors and more specifically nature has numerous benefits for both children and adults, including stress relief and resiliency. These skills are more important now than ever. The outdoor spaces should also be a place where everyone can come together comfortably to discover the meaning of community and give us plenty of opportunities to socialize. Lastly, the spaces should be a place that meets all developmental stages and interests where all children feel valued and safe and are able to have fun.
To accomplish these goals we have contracted with a company, Nature Explore, to provide a design package for all three of our outdoor spaces. Once that is complete we will be working with a builder to execute the plan. The total estimated cost for this project is $80,000. We have already raised $25,000 and have dedicated $20,000 from Bee Balm's budget and cash flow. Therefore, we are looking to raise $35,000. Any donation amount is greatly appreciated. Donations can be made directly here, or as a check made payable to Bee Balm Learning Center (write "playgrounds" in the memo please).
Thank you for your support!
The child care industry, like many industries, was hit hard by the pandemic. Many centers were forced to close. Luckily, with the support of our families and dedication of our team Bee Balm Learning Center was able to remain open. I want to take this opportunity to discover what Bee Balm will look like post pandemic. I find myself asking questions like; in what ways can we help children work through their feelings of uncertainty and fear, and how can we help reduce stress and build resiliency among the children, families, and team members.
Amidst the pandemic our outdoor spaces were spaces of safety and freedom for both our team members and children. It was a place where they were allowed to take a mask break and explore and play without as many worries of social distancing and germs.
In further reflection of our company values of lifelong learning, community, and celebration of individuality, I realize our outdoor spaces are the perfect place to invest to meet our post pandemic goals. These spaces should reflect a place where children come to learn through hands on experiences. They are not just playgrounds for running, climbing, and jumping, but rather a place that develops all their skills, including; cognitive, language, social, and emotional. Additionally, it has been proven that connections with the outdoors and more specifically nature has numerous benefits for both children and adults, including stress relief and resiliency. These skills are more important now than ever. The outdoor spaces should also be a place where everyone can come together comfortably to discover the meaning of community and give us plenty of opportunities to socialize. Lastly, the spaces should be a place that meets all developmental stages and interests where all children feel valued and safe and are able to have fun.
To accomplish these goals we have contracted with a company, Nature Explore, to provide a design package for all three of our outdoor spaces. Once that is complete we will be working with a builder to execute the plan. The total estimated cost for this project is $80,000. We have already raised $25,000 and have dedicated $20,000 from Bee Balm's budget and cash flow. Therefore, we are looking to raise $35,000. Any donation amount is greatly appreciated. Donations can be made directly here, or as a check made payable to Bee Balm Learning Center (write "playgrounds" in the memo please).
Thank you for your support!
Organizer and beneficiary
Manuel and Bekah Barrales
Organizer
Madison, WI
Rebekah Barrales
Beneficiary