This seasonal series is packed with practical approaches to help teachers take learning outside. Join experienced practitioners during this inspiring (and useful!) virtual series. Classes will meet on the last Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:00 pm EST, dates include September 27th and October 25th. Read on for detailed descriptions of each session. A professional development certificate will be awarded at the conclusion of the series.
SESSION DESCRIPTIONS
Tuesday, September 27th from 6:30-8 PM (EST)
Loose Parts: Where to Find Them, How to Use Them, and Why You Want Them
Presented by Jane Pilskalnietis
Do loose parts have to be all natural in a nature-based program? Do I have to spend lots of money on materials? Jane will guide us through the fun and benefits of loose parts play and share the tips and tricks she's learned from years of experience teaching children.
Tuesday, October 25th from 6:30-8 PM (EST)
Planning and Designing Nature Projects in Metropolitan Areas
Presented by Jasmin Field, A Hint of Jasmin
Join Jasmin as she describes, shares and highlights research obtained from the Outdoor Neighborhood Classroom of Edgewood, MD. This was Edgewood's first nature-based learning program that was open to all neighborhood residents (and surrounding areas), targeting Early Learners and Early Elementary Learners that represented a community of diverse backgrounds. The goal of the program was to educate, evaluate and expose African-American children (as well as additional children of color) to the range of learning benefits obtained from nature-based activities, including: nature play, creative art and critical thinking skills, through projects outdoors. Additionally, this workshop is intended to strengthen perspective of Teachers as it relates to concerns or cultural contrasts that may contribute to less minority student enrollment in nature programs.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
This course is ideal for anyone who facilitates nature-based education and outdoor learning, which may include: teachers and administrators in preschool, childcare, or elementary school settings; naturalists, environmental educators, or outdoor educators; wilderness survival enthusiasts; and parents.
MEET YOUR PRESENTERS
Jasmin Field, A Hint of Jasmin
Jasmin is a Michigan State graduate that has become an Early Childhood Education Consultant over time. My professional Theater, Event Planning, Alzheimer's Care and Pre-K Teacher experiences are utilized to help families to strengthen academics for the developing mind. Through her company, A Hint of Jasmin, she provides Lightning Learner Packs for parents and children- an interactive learning resource that promotes the exploration of necessary subjects through hands-on learning. She also launched the first Outdoor Classroom in her community this Summer which enriched the lives of children in her own neighborhood and surrounding areas through nature play, art, math, building projects and literacy. Jasmin is honored to be a Wife to my Husband Justin- one of the biggest supporters of my work- and a Mother of three children that have been my inspiration for creative learning: Noah (6yrs), Lillian (3yrs) and Evelyn (1yr on October 8th).
*If you are unable to make a session, don't worry! We will record each session to share with all registered individuals.
