Good Neighbors

Good Neighbors participant sitting near a tree drawing a planting

Learning Through Landscapes

Intro_׀_Pre-Visit_׀_On-Site_׀_Post-Visit_׀_Get Involved

Good Neighbors brings learning to life through a series of carefully sequenced, hands-on activities that unleash imaginative minds and address grade 3 learning standards in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Using the thematic focus of Parks for People, students solve real-world problems using knowledge and skills from language arts, science, art, mathematics and social studies. This integrated approach engages all learners, and provides a myriad of opportunities for acquiring and applying higher order thinking.

Participating students learn why parks are important for people, and begin to imagine their own role in the care and stewardship of these special landscapes. To see Good Neighbors in action watch this documentary video hosted on YouTube. You can also explore the program by reading the Good Neighbors Brochure.

At Fairsted students:

  • Explore the restored landscape to learn how design decisions affect the character and function of a place.
  • Investigate the Olmsted design office to learn about the tools, steps and people involved in park-making.
  • Create a 3D park model based on client needs to better understand how thoughtfully-designed parks strengthen communities.

Pre-visit materials prepare students for their field experience and post-visit activities extend learning and encourage students to apply their new skills and understandings to their personal lives.
 
Texture of student drawing against a brown background
 
Ranger showing a slide show during a pre-visit to a classroom
Pre-Visit

Pre-Visit Activities in the classroom provide students with the scaffolding to make the most of their Fairsted experience.

A student creating a model of a park
On-Site

Students investigate a restored landscape, tour a historic design office, and build a model park while at Fairsted.

A landscape architect shows students a plan during a visit to her office
Post-Visit

Post-visit activities extend learning beyond the on-site program.

Students discuss a model of a park with a Landscape Architect
Get Involved

Find out how you can get involved in Good Neighbors.

 
Texture of student drawing against a brown background
 
Portrait of Frederick Law Olmsted

Parks for the People

Long before the "No Child Left Inside" movement, there was Frederick Law Olmsted. The 19th century landscape architect saw his profession as a means to design "natural" spaces to promote physical health and spiritual well-being and bring together all the members of the community for a shared experience. Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site seeks to advance this legacy in today's world by engaging young people in learning about the history and contemporary relevance of Olmsted-designed parks and the profession of landscape architecture.

Last updated: March 5, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

99 Warren Street
Brookline, MA 02445

Phone:

617 566-1689

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