The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast is the podcast for teachers and parents and anyone interested in cultivating learning gardens and nature-based curricula for children. It’s a show that will help you transform your outdoor space and will offer “seeds of inspiration” for playful learning outdoors. Each week, Victoria Hackett and her guests will share tips and actionable strategies that you will need in order to set in motion, manage and grow your Outdoor Classroom. You’ll learn how to implement ...
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Are you an elementary teacher that wants to add more science into your teaching schedule but feel like you don’t have the time? Do you know the value of cultivating science skills in your students but feel like you don’t know the best way to incorporate them in your classroom? Then this is the perfect show for you! Naturally Teaching Elementary Science is a podcast designed for the elementary teacher with too much on their plate but a desire to best serve their students. Each week Victoria Z ...
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120: Beyond the Classroom: Innovative Environmental Education with Julie Travaglini
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In this episode, we sit down with Julie Travaglini, the Senior Director of Education and Curriculum at Allegheny Land Trust. Julie shares her journey and passion for environmental education, emphasizing the importance and benefits of connecting people with nature. She discusses various strategies for effective teaching and engagement, highlighting …
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16. 10 Fall Picture Books to Help Your Introduce Seasonal Signs, Falling Leaves, and Animals in Autumn
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Fall is coming, so now is a good time to start scoping out fall picture books to help you teach seasonal concepts. Picture books are a great way to explore the changing of the seasons in words and pictures. In this episode I cover 10 picture books that introduce the signs of the seasons, falling leaves, and animals in autumn. Press play to hear abo…
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119: Don't Just Listen – Experience Buddy Builders Outdoors for Real Impact
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Episode Summary: In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, we explore the concerning decline in playtime among children and how it affects their ability to form friendships and develop essential social skills. Join us as we discuss the underlying reasons behind this decline and its long-term implications. Key Points Discussed: Introduction…
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118: End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcasts Playlist
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End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcast Playlist In this dynamic episode, we explore five transformative educational approaches that shape the future of outdoor learning. We begin with the "Walden Project," an immersive nature-based initiative inspired by Henry David Thoreau, which fosters a deep connection with the environment through experiential ed…
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15. 6 Citizen Science Projects for Elementary Students and Teachers
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Citizen science projects are amazing, real-world opportunities to develop your students' science skills, get them involved in the community, have them contribute to the scientific community, and to nurture future stewards of the Earth. But what are citizen science projects? Citizen science projects are opportunities for non-scientists to collect an…
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117: The Power of Persistence in Outdoor Classrooms
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Episode 117: The Power of Persistence in Outdoor Classrooms In this episode, I explore the transformative world of outdoor classrooms, emphasizing their benefits and the vital importance of connecting students with nature. Drawing from my own experiences and expertise in outdoor education, I discuss how persistence plays a crucial role in achieving…
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14. Outdoor Classroom Routines and Procedures: 5 Easy Activities for Your First Week Outside
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It's that time of year again, where you're getting ready to practice your classroom routines and procedures with your students. You practice everyday, multiple times a day, in the hopes that your students will catch on and be set up for the school year. Your efforts are not in vain; the time you spend practicing your classroom routines and procedur…
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13. Integrating STEM Into Your Classroom: How to Get Started with Naomi Meredith
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Are you interested in integrating STEM into your elementary classroom but you're not sure where to start? Naomi Meredith, former classroom teacher, current STEM coach, and host of the Elementary STEM Coach podcast, joined me to share her tips and tricks for getting started with STEM. Naomi spent 6 years in 2nd and 3rd grade and 5 years as a STEM te…
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116: The Answer is YES, The Question is HOW with Andy Webster from the Walden Project
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Podcast Episode 116: The Answer is YES, The Question is HOW with Andy Webster from the Walden Project Guest Bio: Andy Webster Andy is a New York State Certified Earth Science Teacher with a decade of experience as a public school science teacher. In 2017, Andy left the traditional classroom setting to begin The Walden Project: a full-time outdoor e…
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12. 8 Different Seasons Books: Introducing the Four Seasons with Picture Books
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Helping young learners understand the way that seasons are made can be a challenge! Investigating this abstract concept can be made easier with different seasons books. In this episode, I cover 8 picture books that introduce the changing seasons, how they come to be, and their seasonal signs that can clue your students into their differences. Press…
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11. Teaching with Phenology: How to Plan Your Science Standards Around the Seasons
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Organizing science curriculum can be a challenging task, but I'm here to help. Using phenology, the study of nature throughout the year, you can organize your science standards into a beneficial plan for your students. In this episode, I break down how to plan your year's worth of science standards around the seasons. Tune in to hear about the bene…
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115: Legacy of Bloom: Family Tales of Gardening with the Hacketts
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Legacy of Bloom: Family Tales of Gardening with the Hacketts Episode Overview: In this special episode of "Legacy of Bloom," we sit down with my 91 year old Mum Judith, and older brother, Christopher, to explore their deep-rooted love for gardening. Spanning several generations, the Hacketts share personal stories, cherished memories, and invaluabl…
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10. 10 Best Nature Apps to Use in the Elementary Classroom
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We've reached the 10th episode of the podcast! 🥳 To celebrate, I'm sharing the 10 best nature apps to use in the elementary classroom. Aside from being *FREE* and available on Apple and Android products, listen in as I explain why I LOVE these 10 apps: The Weather Channel (or another weather app) My Lightning Tracker Merlin Bird ID iNaturalist Seek…
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114: Balanced and Barefoot: Q&A with Author Angela Hanscom
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Introduction Welcome to today's special episode! We are thrilled to host Angela Hanscom, the esteemed author of Balanced and Barefoot. This LIVE Q&A event was inspired by our insightful discussions during the book club within the CIRCLE Membership. After diving deep into Angela's valuable insights, our members were inspired to initiate separate dis…
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9. Exploring Invertebrates: 10 Picture Books to Introduce Animal Characteristics
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Introducing invertebrates in your classroom can give your students a more complete picture of animals and their unique characteristics. However, it can be challenging to distinguish the differences between some groups, so consider using picture books to help you illustrate those differences! In this episode, I review 10 picture books (actually 43 b…
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113: Roots of Learning: Nature in Elementary Science Education with Victoria Zablocki from Naturally Teaching
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In this episode of "Roots of Learning," we explore the innovative ways that elementary school teachers can integrate nature into their science education curriculum. Our discussion delves into the importance of connecting young learners with the natural world and how this connection can enhance their understanding of scientific concepts. Key Points …
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8. Learning Gardens: Creating Dynamic Outdoor Classrooms with Victoria Hackett
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Learning gardens benefit children of all ages, including elementary students. Victoria Hackett from Outdoor Classrooms is on the podcast today to share her experience with developing and using learning gardens to teach children in the hopes of inspiring more elementary teachers to use them in their own teaching. Victoria has experience touring and …
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7. Animal Characteristic Breakdown: Reaching Your Curricular Goals By Teaching with Animals
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Animals are inherently interesting to students, so let's take advantage of their characteristics to help you reach your curricular goals! In this episode I introduce different Next Generation Science Standards that can be enhanced by teaching animal characteristics. I also conduct an animal characteristic breakdown where I explain what makes mammal…
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112: Day Four: Growing Minds: Gardens as Outdoor Learning Stations
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Summary: In this episode, we explore how gardens can be transformed into outdoor learning stations that enrich educational experiences for students. We'll discuss the benefits of hands-on learning, the integration of gardening into various subjects, and the benefits of adding learning stations to your outdoor classroom. Key Points Discussed The mai…
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111. Day Three: Cultivating Creativity: Gardens for Art & Beauty
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Description: In this episode, we delve into the fascinating intersection of gardening and artistry in your outdoor classroom. Discover how cultivating this teaching garden can be a profound form of creative expression and contribute to the wellness of your children and aesthetic beauty of your outdoor classroom. Join us as we explore inspiring stor…
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110: Day Two: The Edible Eden: Gardens that Feed
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Episode Summary: In this episode, we delve into the world of why edible gardens with a focus on the benefits of planting kitchen gardens with kids. We also share inspiring engagement questions. Benefits: 1. Educational Opportunities 2. Hands-On Learning 3. Healthy Eating Habits 4. Responsibility and Patience 5. Connection to Nature 6. Physical Acti…
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109: Day One: Unveiling the Secrets of Summer Wildlife Gardens
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Introduction Welcome to the first episode of our free 5-part series, "Unlock the Secrets of Summer Teaching Gardens"! Today, we will embark on a fascinating journey to discover the hidden gems in your summer wildlife garden. I'm Victoria Hackett, your guide through this adventure, where we’ll explore various ways to attract and support wildlife in …
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6. 5 Outdoor Education Safety Tips for Teaching in Nature
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If you've considered teaching outside but you're worried about safety, make sure to listen to this episode. I cover 5 outdoor education safety tips to help ease your mind and get you prepared for the upcoming school year. After 8 years of teaching outside, it all boils down to these 5 things. Listen in as we talk about: Preparing your outdoor space…
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108: Unlock the Secrets of Summer Teaching Gardens: FREE 5-Day LIVE Event
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Episode Summary Welcome to an exciting episode of Outdoor Classroom Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to announce a special opportunity for all garden enthusiasts, educators, and nature lovers. Join us for the "Unlock the Secret of Summer Teaching Gardens" - a FREE 5-Day LIVE Event designed to immerse you and your children in the beauty and wisdom of …
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5. Science Skills for Students: 10 Picture Books for Encouraging Kid Scientists
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Science skills are abstract and can be challenging for students to understand. However, picture books are a great way to make science skills more concrete because they show skills in action. They can also show the results of those skills, illustrating why they are important in science. In this episode, I cover 10 picture books that introduce scienc…
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107: Outdoor Classroom CIRCLE Book Club: #2 Balanced and Barefoot by Angela Hanscom
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Have you heard? I have just announced our second Outdoor Classroom’s CIRCLE Book Club selection! It's Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children by Angela Hanscom. Book description: Today's kids have adopted sedentary lifestyles filled with television, video games, and computer screens. Bu…
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4. 6 Invasive Species Activities to Use in the Elementary Classroom
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Providing hands-on experiences with plants while teaching science can be challenging when we want to preserve the integrity of our school yard ecosystem. But I have a hack for you...invasive species activities! Tune in to find out why invasive species are perfect for up-close investigations, harvesting, and being the subject of fascinating research…
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1. 10 Science Activities for Elementary Students That Aren't Experiments
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Are you interested in science activities that will better reach your elementary students? Do you feel like finding experiments is challenging and not very rewarding? I'm here to help lift the weight off your shoulders. In this episode, I'm introducing 10 science activities for elementary students that aren't experiments. Examples and actionable ste…
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2. Outdoor Learning Environment - 3 Things to Plan for Back to School
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Outdoor education has many benefits for teaching science but can seem daunting, especially when your plate as a teacher is already so full. Listen in as I break down how to set up your outdoor learning environment to make outdoor education more attainable. We'll talk through planning your routines and expectations and how to practice them your firs…
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3. Teaching with Books: Thinking Outside the Box with Steve Frisbee
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Teaching with books is a great way to make science more approachable and enjoyable for your students. But it's not just about reading books, it's about making them engaging and integrating them into your science lessons. That's why I'm excited to have Steve Frisbee on the show today. He shares my obsession with children's books and he has a lot of …
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106: Tuning in to Outdoor Play with Meagan Duncan from Connected Kids Thrive
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Today I'm chatting with Meaghan Duncan about how effective communication increases cooperation and elevates connection. She believes, with the right tools, it is possible to turn moments of contention and correction, into moments of quality connection outdoors in nature. Listen and learn her tips and tricks for both parents and educators. MEET MEAG…
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Trailer - Naturally Teaching Elementary Science
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Are you an elementary teacher who understands the importance of science education but struggles to find the time and resources to include it into your curriculum? Do you dream of incorporating outdoor education experiences and integrating science and literacy, but feel overwhelmed by where to begin? Then this podcast is for you! Join me each week a…
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105: Equitable Access to Nature: Breaking Barriers with Mandy Slavik from the Boston Outdoor Preschool Network
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Mandy and I discuss the Boston Outdoor Preschool Network's Forest Days Program in this episode. From there, we talk about how important it is for everyone to have equal access to nature, how to start a nature program in the city, and how to connect nature to curriculum! Pour yourself a cup of tea and listen. I promise you, this conversation will mo…
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104: Releasing the Artist Within: A Children's Outdoor Art Show with Laura Delgado from The Montessori Tree
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Have you ever heard a two year old child announce to you, "I am an artist."? This is exactly the result of Laura Delgado's tireless effort to create an all inclusive art show for young children. Do you want to host an art show, but don't know where to start? Laura discusses her experiences with the Outdoor Classroom Art Show as well as success stra…
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103: The Future of Outdoor Learning: Adapting to Change
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There has to be a good reason for the change because it is difficult. Usually, change is reactive. A scarcity attitude is one of the main obstacles I hear from educators who are reluctant to switch to an outdoor teaching paradigm. Not Enough Time Why does it lack? The response from the students The anticipation of out-of-control behavior Absence of…
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102: Revitalizing Tradition: A Journey with The Secret Garden That Feeds
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Have you been keeping up with my stories on Instagram? This year, I decided to try something entirely different after nearly giving up on planting and maintaining my edible garden. In this episode, listen to the story that inspired me to test out a new system in my Secret Gardens that Feeds. I've been using photos to record the process so far, but …
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101: Therapeutic Forest School: Perspectives on Nature-Based Wellness with Tamara Wineland from AdventureME & Trek Outdoors
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This episode is an Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk with Tamara Wineland from AdventureME and Trek Outdoors. A licensed micro-forest and nature school serving children ages 3-5 in Black Forest, CO. Their approach is not an unsupervised free-for-all, but a behind-the-scenes facilitation of exploration and learning. They use a blended pedagogy that a…
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100: One Hundred Episode CELEBRATION!!!
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For most schools, the 100th day falls sometime in February or early March. Many teachers use the countdown in their lessons by having children tally the days on a whiteboard or by filling a countdown chart with numbers or stickers. Many wear special t-shirts to celebrate the 100th day of school. In looking back at the most listened to Outdoor Class…
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99: Starting a Nature School with CIRCLE Member Katie Minor from Wonderforest School
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In this Outdoor Classroom Tour and Talk we are talking with CIRCLE Member Katies Minor about her how her family childcare program evolved into the Wonderforest School. In this episode, we learn about Katies start-up journey, and how she brings adventure, fun, and learning outdoors. Not matter where you are in the process of creating an outdoor clas…
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98: Exploring Nature in Spring: A Masterclass
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Due to the overwhelming success of the winter course, I have made the decision to virtually unlock the Secret Gardens Outdoor Classrooms and share my detailed method for bringing the learning gardens back to life in time for spring. Are you an educator who adores using your outdoor space as a teaching tool? Are you interested in knowing more about …
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97: Inquiry-Based Learning in an Outdoor Classroom with Edwina Cottino
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Teaching outdoors fosters natural opportunities for inquiry-based learning as it involves open-ended investigations into the wonder of children. In this episode, all the way from Australia, we have Edwina Cottino from Edslessons.com sharing her insight on advocating for outdoor play, nature pedagogy and inquiry-based learning outdoors. We discuss e…
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96: Five Ways to Introduce Poetry into the Outdoor Classroom
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Nature is a great resource for inspiration, especially when getting children to write. Inspired by Episode #95, today’s mini-episode digs deeper into simple ways to introduce poetry to children in your outdoor classroom. They include: 1. Share and discuss poetry 2. Recite and act out poems outdoors 3. Write poems in a sit spot outdoors 4. Integrate…
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95. Legacy Of Impact: Changing The Face Of Public Education Through Outdoor Classrooms with Jodi Simpson
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After the pandemic, many teachers began teaching outside. The woods, trails, playgrounds, and parks near their schools became their classrooms. Educators happily discovered that nature provided new academic and social-emotional learning opportunities. Nature-based learning, which can be as simple as bringing natural materials into the classroom or …
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94: Massachusetts Environmental Education Conference
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This month I presented at the MEES (Massachusetts Environment Education Conference). In this episode, I am sharing highlights from my workshop and the overall conference. I am also reflecting on the importance of gathering in person with like-minded educators. becoming an advocate of environmental education sharing our outdoor classroom stories. CO…
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93: Ignite Outdoor Learning & Try Something New Everyday
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Have you ever tried something new and felt like you were writing with your non-dominant hand? Do you ever hear the monkeys in your mind singing, “You can’t do that!” “You are crazy for even trying!” BUT you go ahead and do it anyway…. Are you an educator thinking about moving your classroom outdoors despite the uncertain and vulnerable feelings of …
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92. Seven Tips to Harvest a Connection to the Natural World
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Are we doing enough in our outdoor classrooms to harvest a connection to the natural world? In this mini-episode we discuss 7 tips for connecting children with nature in your outdoor classroom. 1. Start with Curiosity as it is the first step to active learning. Ask yourself: What am I curious about in nature? What are the kids curious about in natu…
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91: Connect with Nature in a Disconnected World with Robyn Broudie from Roots 2 Rise
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Today we have an Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk with Robyn Broudie from Roots to Rise. Roots 2 Rise Outdoors offers year-round nature-based exploratory programs for children ages 2 to 10 throughout Toronto, Canada and surrounding areas. Offering an alternative approach to education, they believe that by facilitating opportunities for children to …
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90: Five Steps to Grow Holistic Development, Health and Well-Being in your Outdoor Classroom
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In this episode, we not only look at the steps to grow holistic development, health, and well-being in your outdoor classroom; Victoria also breaks down each step into mini-how to steps. They include: 1. Drink more water and less sugary drinks. Require children to bring water bottles 2. Watch less screen time. Send home outdoor activities for famil…
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89. Explore, Create and Play with Charlotte Ellis from Seasons: A Tour and Talk
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Today we have an Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk with Charlotte Ellis all the way from the UK representing her program called Seasons. In this episode, we discuss, the mission of Seasons and how their programs are reconnecting people with nature to benefit holistic development, health, and well-being. In our discussion, we talk about the importanc…
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In this mini-episode we explore the upcoming Exploring Nature in Spring Masterclass that will be featured inside the CIRCLE Membership community. Inspired by Episode #85 with Author Janet Fox and her book Wintergarden, in our masterclass, we explore how the world of seeds and plants cultivates wonder for children! From the tiniest sesame seeds to t…
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