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What an absolutely incredible time it was at our professional development day this past Saturday! We will welcomed Dr. Michele Lucia from Walden University as she presented “Nurturing Young Children in Nature.” Together we gained an understanding of the key factors in how to implement nature-based play and why it matters. We were also encouraged through outdoor play as a way to improve young children’s physical abilities, develop strategies for teamwork, emotional regulation, and fostering independence. Finally, we explored how outdoor play boosts cognitive growth such as problem-solving and curiosity.

Let’s review our three buckets of learning that the workshop supported:

1. Physical Development - Outdoor learning provides numerous opportunities for young children to enhance their physical abilities. By playing and exploring outside, children can develop their fine and gross motor skills along with encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

2. Cognitive Growth and Environmental Awareness - Outdoor settings offer a wealth of sensory experiences and learning opportunities that foster cognitive development.

3. Social Well-Being and Emotional Intelligence - The outdoor environment is an ideal backdrop for developing teamwork with social interaction, independence and confidence.

To learn more about how you, as an early childhood educator, can incorporate nature into indoor spaces along with providing a learning culture through play and creativity; where children can develop the skills and confidence to connect with the natural world; visit Childhood by Nature: https://www.childhoodbynature.com/7-ways-to-bring-the-outdoors-inside/

“Play is the highest form of research.” - Albert Einstein

Wishing you all the best,

Amanda & Todd