By Tuğçe Kasap Bilaloğlu

Early Birds Istanbul employee & Outdoor School Istanbul founder

At Early Birds Istanbul Kindergarten, project-based learning is not just an educational approach, it is a way of life. Over the years, children, staff, and families have worked together on countless projects. Now, the kindergarten itself has become a project. Early Birds Istanbul is evolving into Outdoor School Istanbul, a transformation that embodies its philosophy while spreading the idea of project-based learning throughout Türkiye.

Our project-based learning approach with children follows four key steps that accompany each project. First, we set the goal by identifying a question or challenge (problem) that interests the children. We then conduct a joint brainstorming session in which the children share their ideas. Once we have collected a range of ideas, we move on to the planning stage. The children help to organize tasks and participate in project planning and execution. Finally, we present the results, with the children proudly showcasing their work and celebrating their successes.

The development of Early Birds Istanbul into Outdoor School Istanbul followed the same principle:

Step A: Setting the objective

When Regina decided to become a consultant under her company name Early Bird Istanbul, she received a lot of support from the team and the parents. It was very important to everyone that project-based learning would continue to take place at this kindergarten. Our biggest project began with the question:

How can we ensure that the project-based learning concept continues to thrive in Istanbul while also inspiring other institutions?

How do we formulate goals together as a kindergarten team?

Step B: Joint brainstorming

We met to consider how we could best continue the values and traditions of Early Birds Istanbul. After careful consideration and discussion, Cansu and I decided, with Regina's advice, to take on the responsibility and continue. The name Outdoor School Istanbul clearly reflects the underlying philosophy.

Step C: Replacement and planning

Change requires careful planning, and this transition is no exception. Together, we developed a plan for how Outdoor School Istanbul can preserve the principles of Early Birds Istanbul while opening up new opportunities.

Step D: Presentation of results

The final step in this exciting journey was announcing the good news to the Early Birds Istanbul community. This milestone marked not only the end of one project, but also the beginning of a new chapter.

 Outdoor School Istanbul is now poised to become a symbol of project-based outdoor learning and to inspire children and families. At the same time, Regina continues her mission to inspire other institutions with Early Birds Istanbul. Together, these two institutions will ensure that the philosophy of project-based learning continues to flourish and grow.

In conclusion, the biggest project is the kindergarten itself. It continues to grow and evolve to ensure that outdoor learning remains meaningful and vibrant.