Freebies!
Free resources related to nature-based early childhood education
What does it remind you of?
This simple question also requires higher order thinking to compare, contrast, and connect to children’s prior experience. This also honors their culture and identity in the learning process.
The boring stuff matters: Policies, procedures, and more!
I know, I know—policies and procedures are boring, but they are SO important to operating successful nature-based programs.
Taking a break that meets your needs
However you choose to spend your break, I hope you find restoration and rejuvenation.
Resources for when things are not okay
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she offer advice and resources for having difficult conversations with children.
Nature is everywhere—even in urban areas
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she reflects on how nature is TRULY everywhere, even in urban spaces.
The first rainy day
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she reflects on the first rainy day at a nature-based school. This includes talking with families about inclement weather and ensuring children have the appropriate gear for positive experiences playing outdoors.
The music shuffle
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she discusses different types of nature-based music and gives recommendations for music resources for children and adults alike!
Slowing down to see…
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she reflects on all the beauty that can be found in nature—you just have to slow down and see it! This post particularly highlights birding wherever in the world your find yourself.
Seeing the whole picture
In this article, Rachel discusses the importance of supporting the whole child and taking a wide enough view to address the root cause of behavior challenges.
How to close the year with intention
The end of the school year is an important time to celebrate the year of learning and adventures the group has had together. How are you marking the end of your time with children? Are you helping to create meaning and memories of the year?
Tips for maximizing outdoor learning through play
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore discusses tips for maximizing outdoor learning through play.
Back-to-school tips for outdoor learning
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore shares some back-to-school tips for outdoor learning, including setting families up for success and structuring the day to support outdoor time.
Outdoor learning & school readiness
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore discusses how outdoor learning supports children’s development and school readiness.
Supporting play equity by inspiring nature-based learning
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore discusses diversity, equity, and inclusion in nature-based settings.
Infants and toddlers need outdoor play too!
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore discusses the importance of outdoor play for infants and toddlers.
3 tips for getting started with nature-based learning
In this video, Dr. Rachel Larimore explains that nature-based learning is achievable with small shifts, and shares three tips for getting started.
Inclusion & accessibility in nature-based schools: An interview with Dr. Larimore & Outside OT
In this interview, Dr. Rachel Larimore answers questions related to inclusion and accessibility in nature-based schools, and gives suggestions for supporting children with disabilities in your program.
Outdoor activities for kids
In this video, Dr. Rachel Larimore shares quick, simple ideas for play and learning outdoors.
Nature-based ECE: Podcast with That Early Childhood Nerd
In a guest appearance on the podcast That Early Childhood Nerd, Rachel Larimore shares advice for including nature in early childhood programs.
Growing with the children: Bringing nature preschool practices to elementary schools
Many families who experience nature-based preschools find themselves looking for a similar elementary experience. In this article, Rachel Larimore discusses a nature-based elementary program.