Rachel Larimore 5/1/22 Rachel Larimore 5/1/22

Recommended books for nature-based educators

Are you looking for professional development resources related to nature-based education? Here’s a list to get your started. We’ve grouped the titles below by those relevant to all nature-based educators and titles focused on specific age-levels.

Rachel Larimore 4/28/22 Rachel Larimore 4/28/22

Nature-based learning environments: What every early childhood leader needs to know

This webinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, helps early childhood administrators address the unique considerations for designing a nature-based classroom—Inside, Outside & Beyond.

Rachel Larimore 4/23/22 Rachel Larimore 4/23/22

Benefit-Risk Assessment Template

Rachel Larimore 4/8/22 Rachel Larimore 4/8/22

Soundscapes: Noticing the sounds of nature

I often think of that quote in Spring when the natural world seems to get louder and louder with bird song, frog calls, insects, and so forth. Each of these sounds tells a story and, if we pay attention, the sounds connect us to place.

Rachel Larimore 3/30/22 Rachel Larimore 3/30/22

Sit spot to rejuvenation

In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she introduces sit spots and explains how they can be an opportunity for rejuvenation.

Rachel Larimore 3/25/22 Rachel Larimore 3/25/22

All in the name: The meaning behind Samara

The meaning behind our name, Samara.

Rachel Larimore 2/18/22 Rachel Larimore 2/18/22

The power of video

In this era of seemingly endless isolation and disconnection, video is a way to re-connect!

Rachel Larimore 1/14/22 Rachel Larimore 1/14/22

Comparison is a thief

Thinking about marketing led me to reflecting on a quote by Theodore Roosevelt: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” I agree with Teddy. I also think comparison robs our profession of respect and reputation.

Rachel Larimore 1/7/22 Rachel Larimore 1/7/22

Resolve to focus on assets

The new year brings about thoughts of goal setting and resolutions. With the mention of goals/resolutions, most media messages focus on how we’re not good enough. Please don’t “should” on yourself.

Rachel Larimore 12/17/21 Rachel Larimore 12/17/21

Limited by our own understanding

Our teaching is limited by our own understanding and language. Of course, it’s impossible to know everything about everything. Yet, we CAN remain curious and interested.

Rachel Larimore 12/10/21 Rachel Larimore 12/10/21

Awe, wonder, & a moment of delight

I encourage you to think about WHY you take children Beyond the designated play area. Ask yourself how the structure and activities of time in the Beyond are supporting your goals. Is there time and space for children to experience awe, wonder, confusion, curiosity, interest, and/or surprise?

Rachel Larimore 12/3/21 Rachel Larimore 12/3/21

Indoor plants are important too!

In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she talks about the importance of indoor plants and how to incorporate them in your classroom in authentic ways.

Rachel Larimore 11/19/21 Rachel Larimore 11/19/21

Planning for emergent curriculum

All too often I hear people talk about emergent curriculum as though it's a free for all with no planning involved at all. Not true!

Rachel Larimore 8/2/21 Rachel Larimore 8/2/21

What is a nature-based preschool?

In this video Dr. Rachel A. Larimore, Founder and Chief Visionary of Samara Early Learning, describes the broad concept of nature-based early childhood education and nature-based preschools specifically.