REALIZATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IDEAS IN THE ENVIRONMENT OF THE KINDERGARTEN

Ecological path, which is called ,,The green path”, was established in 1997 in the territory of Šiauliai nursery-kindergarten ,,Žiogelis” after the evaluation of the surrounding environment of the institution and in pursuant of implementation of tasks of ecological – environmental education, paying attention to the policy of the institution (environmental and healthy lifestyle), possibilities of self-expression of the children. The purpose of ,,The green path” is to form ecological - environmental attitude of the children, stimulate their self-expression in the nearest environment, and strengthen their health using the game-like - complex - practical principles of education. Tiny feet of the children guide through the ten stops of ,,The green path”. Each stop has its individual educational effect where the special tasks are being implemented. Methodical references are prepared for each stop of ,,The green path”. An objective material is collected; various practical exercises are prepared for both individual and collective activities of the children. Folk material, poems, stories, songs and various games are provided. Educational - cognitive activity in , The green path” is carried on not only in the groups through the organization of educational activities, but also through the organization of various excursions, trips to the nature (according to the age), historical and other places. It gives knowledge; expands the view of the children, forms manners of proper behaviour in the nature. Successful organization and development of ecological - environmental education and health strengthening is determined by favourable means and conditions, which directly stimulate activity of a child in the nature, in the surrounding environment (observe, explore, experiment, clean, cherish, create, rest, move, protect the nature) initiates environmental knowledge and skills; educates work skills; forms cultural - hygienic skills; educates social skills. Due to the consideration of the pedagogues about the age, needs and experience of the children; creative and purposeful help, the creative skills, abilities, provision of the children are developed. ,,The green path” allows to implement environmental and health strengthening projects, organize various events. Key words: education, child, practical activity outdoors, nontraditional spaces.