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 from 7-8:30 p.m. on October 30th, November 20th and December 18th. Read on for detailed descriptions of each session. A professional development certificate will be awarded at the conclusion of the series.

SESSION DESCRIPTIONS

Monday, October 30th from 7-8:30 PM (EST)
Sensory and Loose Parts Play in Fall and Winter

Presented by Myllicent Felder of Sidney Ridge Nature Playschool

Outdoor nature play in itself is rooted in sensory play and loose part play, but this can sometimes be a challenge during the incoming colder months. In this workshop, we will discuss sensory play and loose part play during the fall and winter seasons, and discover ways of incorporating seasonal gifts from mother nature in our programs.

Monday, November 20th from 7-8:30  PM (EST)
Academics in Nature Schools for K-2

Presented by Fernanda Wolfson of Cocoplum Nature School

The purpose of this workshop is to demonstrate some child-centric, nature-based  practices that make academic learning visible for the K-2 settings. Academics and nature-based education are not mutually exclusive, but quite the opposite. In these settings, children learn academic content in integrated, meaningful, tangible, relevant ways. Playful and experiential learning pedagogies help educators respond with agility as the children play and explore in nature. All you need is profound familiarity of the academic benchmarks you wish to cover, a few materials, and an open mind!

Monday, December 18th from 7-8:30  PM (EST)
Routines & Rhythms

Presented by Lori Ann Wilde of Prairiewood Forest School

This engaging session will model a sample class rhythm that can be adapted for any nature-immersed class or program. As we move through a flow that meets students’ needs by offering opportunities for active movement as well as quieter reflection, we’ll discuss ideas for introducing class transitions, as well as games, songs, and other routines that help with the flow of arrival time, circle gatherings, snacks or meals, and closing. Participants will gain new ideas to benefit their programs, and will design a transition routine of their own to put into practice.

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

Myllicent Felder, of Sidney Ridge Nature Playschool

Myllicent is an avid bird watcher, a lover of all things flora and fauna, and an eager advocate for outdoor play. She received her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Brooklyn College, CUNY. She has been teaching fully outdoors for over six years, and has helped create three outdoor early childhood programs. Last year, Myllicent opened her own nature-based daycare program out of her home and fourteen acres of forest: Sidney Ridge Nature Playschool.

Fernanda Wolfson, of Cocoplum Nature School

Co-founder of Cocoplum Nature School, mother to 2 boys. Fernanda holds a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education, a Master's in International and Intercultural Education, and a Specialist Degree and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction, from Florida International University. She has worked and lived in Mexico, France, Philippines, and the USA.

Lori Ann Wilde, of Prairiewood Forest School

Lori Ann is a nature connection mentor with Prairiewood Forest School in the Cross Timbers of central Oklahoma. Her educational passion is working alongside nature to co-create an environment conducive to play, learning, community growth, nature connection, and creative expression. Her background includes traditional teaching licensure, naturalist studies and mentorship through Wilderness Awareness School, and herbalist training through The Human Path Herbal Medics Academy. This is her 13th year to guide children through nature-immersed outdoor experiences at summer camps, nature play classes, Forest School, wildcrafting workshops, and outdoor homeschool co-ops. Outside of these programs, Lori Ann loves backpacking, canoeing, stargazing, and rock climbing.

*If you are unable to make a session, don't worry! We will record each session to share with all registered individuals.