Through a lively combination of stories, research findings, reflections, and practical ideas, explore the wonderful ways daily experiences with nature enhance young children’s curiosity, engagement, self-regulation, and care for themselves and the world around them. Bring learning and play together: through gardening, risky play, creative expression, and STEAM experiences. Dive into how blending our research-based guiding principles with your unique vision and pedagogy can shape nature-rich environments, materials and interactions to bring wonder and discovery to life in your program, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve already begun implementing an outdoor program of your own.
Together in this keynote, we will:
- Affirm the importance and benefits of daily connections with nature for young children and those who care for them.
- Gain practical ideas and inspiration for integrating gardening, big body play, loose parts and more into your outdoor program.
- Discover the qualities and features of natural outdoor classrooms that support the ways young children learn best: through caring relationships and play!
