Exploring Education and Nature in Latvia: A Journey of Inspiration
A Collaborative Adventure in Learning
As part of the International Nordic Plus Outdoor Game Education Project, our journey brought us to Latvia, the second destination on this incredible adventure. Alongside Finland, participants from Lithuania, Sweden, Denmark, and Estonia gathered to connect, learn, and be inspired. Our destination was Jumpravas Pamatskola, fondly known as Zvanins—a picturesque kindergarten nestled in the tranquil town of Jumprava.
Memorable Moments
Our arrival at Riga train station set the tone for an enriching experience. Greetedwarmly by our host and participants from the Nordic countries, we embarked on ascenic hour-long journey to Jumprava. Upon arrival, a peaceful walk through a small forest led us to the kindergarten, a haven of natural beauty and thoughtful design.
Despite the chilly, wet morning, the sight of a well-maintained yard and seasonal, nature-inspired crafts lifted our spirits. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, tea, and traditional Latvian pastries, coupled with friendly faces and warm welcomes, made us feel instantly at home.
Inside, a compelling video presentation introduced us to the school’s rich history and evolution. The staff’s dedication and creativity stood out, particularly in their efforts to produce a film emphasizing the importance of early childhood education—a testament to their commitment to nurturing young minds.
After a delicious lunch, we explored the kindergarten’s themed classrooms. Each space reflected a deep connection to nature, with natural materials incorporated into activities such as counting, coloring, and crafting. Families played an integral role in enhancing the learning environment, making education a collaborative effort.
The emphasis on identity was particularly inspiring. From using picture boards in the youngest classrooms to teaching older children to write their names in cursive, the progression highlighted the value of personal growth and self-recognition.
Two standout spaces included a sensory room for relaxation and a music room where instruments made from natural materials allowed children to explore creativity through sound. Both indoor and outdoor areas were thoughtfully designed to spark imagination and provide freedom for young minds to thrive.
Engaging Roles
One of the most engaging experiences was participating in Latvia State Forestry’s “Pig-Man” program, a creative initiative to instill environmental awareness in children. The story of the Pig Man—a young man transformed into a mythical figure for littering the forest—resonated deeply.
We joined the children on a forest walk, collecting natural materials for crafting sock puppets while cleaning the trails of litter. The activity culminated in an open-air performance of songs and dances inspired by the program, bringing the story to life in a memorable way.
Over the following days, we took part in nature-themed games designed to teach children about animals, the environment, and the importance of resource conservation. A concert celebrating Latvia’s National Day, performed by the children and staff, beautifully blended cultural pride with artistic expression.
Our journey also included a visit to Latvia’s oldest candy factory, where we participated in candy-making activities, sharing ideas about education and community involvement. We then toured a stunning library, a modern masterpiece built from wood and glass. Its design embraced natural sunlight and featured a plant wall that recycled water, embodying sustainability and functionality. The visit concluded with a fascinating guided tour of the natural museum, leaving us inspired by Latvia’s commitment to blending education with nature.
Carrying Inspiration Forward
The ideas and insights we gained from our time in Latvia are already making an impact. At home, we’ve begun incorporating practices inspired by Jumpravas Pamatskola, including engaging parents and local businesses to contribute natural materials for educational projects.
We’re also introducing more nature-focused games and encouraging children to use familiar toys in creative, sustainable ways. Several new projects are in the works, centered on themes of water, food, and recycling. These initiatives aim to foster environmental awareness among both children and adults, laying the foundation for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
By blending these learnings with our Finnish educational values, we hope to nurture responsibility, imagination, and a deeper connection to the natural world.
A Lasting Impression
Our journey to Latvia was more than a visit—it was a transformative experience. The inspiration, creativity, and shared sense of purpose we encountered will continue to shape our educational practices and values. This chapter of the Nordic Plus Outdoor Game Education Project was not just about learning; it was about building a brighter, more sustainable future together.
Stay tuned for more updates as we carry forward these valuable lessons and embark on the next steps of our journey—Denmark!