Freebies!
Free resources related to nature-based early childhood education
Take learning outside in COVID-19
In this article, Dr. Rachel Larimore shares simple ways to take learning outside during COVID-19.
Tips for nature-based learning in the winter: A video
In this video, Dr. Rachel Larimore shares advice on how to prepare for and embrace outdoor learning during the winter months.
Nurture in nature: Getting started with nature-based learning
Nurture in Nature is a blog series hosted by Kaplan Early Learning. In this article Dr. Rachel A. Larimore provides practical advice for creating outdoor learning spaces. While the idea may sound intimidating, she makes it simple.
Using principles of nature-based preschools to transform your classroom
In this article in NAEYC’s Young Children, Rachel Larimore explains how teachers can use principles of nature-based education to transform their classrooms.
How to lead a nature-based program without losing your purpose (or mind!)
This webinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, helps early childhood administrators identify the principles and benefits of a nature-based approach.
Preschool Beyond Walls: Integrating nature into the preschool classroom
This recorded edWebinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, helps early childhood providers consider the principles fundamental to a nature-based approach and integrate those principles into teaching practice.
Facilitating young children’s learning WITH nature
In this edWebinar, Dr. Rachel Larimore focuses on the teacher-child interactions that best support children learning with nature, rather than simply learning in or about nature.
Joys & challenges of managing a nature-based program
Managing a nature-based program can be challenging, but there are also many joys! This webinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, helps early childhood administrators identify the principles fundamental to nature-based education and the benefits of such an approach.
Starter list of children’s books—preschool
There are MANY great nature-based children’s books. This list can serve as a starting point for the first book purchase(s) of your new nature-based or forest school!
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.
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.
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.
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.
The power of video
In this era of seemingly endless isolation and disconnection, video is a way to re-connect!
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.
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.
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.
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?