unwalling at EMEI Eliene Macedo dos Santos

a pedagogical and administrative experience

Abstract

The idea of ​​“unpairing” in early childhood education—something widely practiced at Emei Eliene Macedo dos Santos—aims to take learning beyond the four walls of the classroom. Rather than keeping children confined indoors, this approach encourages them to explore outdoor spaces and connect with nature as part of their daily learning. The belief behind this method is simple but powerful: being outdoors supports children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development, while making learning more playful and spontaneous. Inspired by researchers like Léa Tiriba, this approach aims to blur the boundaries between “inside” and “outside” school. By doing so, children are free to explore, move around, and build a stronger connection with the world around them. At Emei, unpairing is more than a teaching choice—it is supported by Brazil’s national education policies. These policies promote the idea of ​​broad and inclusive learning environments, as outlined in the National Curricular Guidelines for Early Childhood Education. Similarly, the BNCC (National Common Curricular Base) highlights the importance of children learning in ways that connect them to cultural and natural contexts. Outdoor spaces, in this sense, become places where children can not only play, but also develop social skills and gain independence. This philosophy is also supported by thinkers like Zabalza, who sees physical space as an active part of a child’s growth—not just a backdrop. According to this view, the design and use of educational spaces can either open up possibilities for learning or restrict them. Thus, classrooms and playgrounds are not just places—they are tools that help children learn through interaction, exploration, and discovery in safe and engaging environments. Ultimately, this shift in thinking represents a more inclusive and flexible vision of education—one that recognizes that learning does not happen only at a desk. Instead, it happens in many spaces and through many types of experiences. By breaking down physical and symbolic barriers, this approach helps redefine what a meaningful education can look like.