The new K-4 outdoor classroom, The Magic Room, was finished after six months of on-off construction and students have begun participating in hands on activities using materials that aren’t found in a regular classroom.

Materials which help the young students develop motor and problem solving skills such as water, dirt, bottles, toilet paper rolls and cardboard can be found inside The Magic Room. Additionally, it is an English-only zone, so students learn a second language in a fun and interactive way.

“The idea is for kids to understand how the materials work and what they do. They have to work with materials of reality that aren’t found in a classroom,” Juan Fernando Mesa, Director of TCS General Services and construction leader, said.

The Magic Room is not a traditional classroom with a teacher explaining the right way to color in an image. It is a space where students can learn by themselves and with their peers, and have the chance to be independent.

“Students learn to let their imagination fly by making a reality the construction of their ‘dreams’. We are hoping they can take full advantage of a hands-on project that will give them the skills to feel confident that they can create,” K-4 teacher Javier Velez said.

Students have been using magic room to learn English while they explore materials materials that aren’t a regular part of thier learning environment. According to research, students learn most when they are having fun, an play encourages healthy development in children more than any other activity.

“It is an English only zone, it helps students speak more english without it feeling like they are in a classroom. Right now students go there to do activities and crafts,” Liliana Lopez, K-4 teacher said.

So far, students seem to enjoy the Magic Room where they get to be creative, curious and more importantly, they get the chance to create. So far students have created a variety of crafts using recycled materials such as plastic bottles and cardboard to fashion swords and rockets.

“My favorite part about the magic room is making crafts!” Luciana Moreno, K-4 student, said.

Teachers also enjoy The Magic Room because it provides the chance for them to interact differently with students than they normally do in the classroom. Instead of teachers giving instructions to the students, the students decide on the activites and the teachers provide guidance.

“Our students are eager to work in this room, although we’ve taken small steps because we know we need to abide by certain rules that guarantee a good use of their time and of the room itself -cleanliness, order, following instructions,” Velez said.

Magic Room is a very relaxed space, many materials and furniture are recycled or second-hand.

“Whenever there was extra money from other projects, or materials that weren’t being used they were put into the outdoor classroom, students will have a totally different experience there than in a regular classroom,” Mesa said.

Mesa also mentioned how Magic Room isn’t even a ‘real’ construction. There were no walls or beams needed, it is simply a structure with a ceiling and a concrete floor.

“No constructions permits or licences were needed because it is a very small project,” Mesa said.

So far, everyone who’s been in the Magic Room has had an incredible experience. It will continue to be used by K-4 students and in the future other grades will begin to use it as well.

“I love the Magic Room because I can take my projects home and show my parents what I made!” Camila Trujillo, K-4 student said.