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Training
We offer extensive programming designed to support early childhood practitioners at any career stage. Whether you are new to nature-based learning or a seasoned educator - or even if you need guidance starting your own nature program - ERAFANS can help.
ONLINE TRAINING
We know you don't want to be behind the screen, but don't worry - our online formats beckon you back outside! Online training formats include webinars and webinar series, nature e-courses and our own hybrid field courses.
OUTDOOR TEACHER RETREATS
Topics are carefully selected based on requests from ERAFANS members in a given region or state. Each day-long retreat provides professional development on best practices in early childhood environmental education. In addition, there is space for participants to network, reflect and re-energize. Outdoor Teacher Retreats are offered year-round in different parts of the region. Want to bring an Outdoor Teacher Retreat to your region? Contact us to make it happen!
NATURAL WONDER SUMMIT
APRIL 2018 - date coming soon!
Wonder and curiosity is at the heart of what we do. Join us for the an ERAFANS gathering that celebrates nature-based early childhood education. This summit rotates among nature preschools, forest kindergartens and nature-based schools concentrated in the eastern region of the U.S. Seasoned nature-based early childhood practitioners share inspirational training on topics that matter to you. Click here to learn more.
TEACHER SWAP
Let us facilitate a swap between one of your teachers and a teacher from another nature preschool or forest kindergarten program. This is an invaluable way to gain insight into the varied approaches of nature-based curriculum and the application of best practices in early childhood environmental education. You spend 1-2 days working in a partner program while another teacher spends time working in yours.
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Do you have a training topic in mind but haven’t come across anything that meets your needs? Our trainers will develop a specialized training experience for your team and facilitate it at your school or center. View sample training topics here.
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If you want to transform an existing outdoor space into a natural play space, we can facilitate a design session to get your project moving in the right direction.
COLLABORATIVE TRAINING
We can help you partner with another local nature preschool or forest kindergarten for a combined training experience. This is a fantastic way to share and learn from others in the field.