Spring is in the air! Get re-energized for the end of the school year at this Outdoor Teacher Retreat, hosted by the Birches School! This special event brings together experts in the field of nature-based learning to share ideas and practices with a variety of hands-on sessions with options for educators in both upper and lower levels alike.   

ANBE will provide a professional development certificate at the conclusion of the event which can be submitted to Mass. EEC for six (6) continuing education hours in the State of Massachusetts. If you are travelling out of state, please check with your local Department of Ed. to confirm eligibility for clock hours. 

Please dress for the weather, as most of this training takes place outdoors, rain or shine. Coffee/tea with lite breakfast and lunch is included, but remember your canteen for drinks throughout the day. 

Note: We strive for zero waste during our events; please bring your canteen for drinks.

Who Should Attend?

This training is ideal for educators, caregivers, and others working with children of all ages in programs that prioritize nature-based experiences. Our participants work in all kinds of settings, from nature-based schools and forest kindergartens to public schools, traditional preschools, HeadStart programs, child care settings, and more.

Schedule Outline

• Registration and Breakfast
• Introductions
• Site tour of The Birches School
• Morning Workshops 
• 1. Emergent Curriculum OR Embracing our Child Selves
  2. PreK - Lower Elementary Math OR Middle - Highschool Climate Action
• Lunch
• Afternoon Workshops
• 1. Pre-K - Elementary Science OR Middle - Highschool Science
  2. Full Group: Differentiation in the Nature-Based Classroom
• Closing Gathering

Workshop Options 

Student-driven Climate Action with Melissa Hansen

Going the Distance: Math Lessons in the Natural World with Rina Zampieron

We Contain Multitudes: Emergent Curriculum and the Reggio-Emilia Approach with Mo Abdalah

Seasonal and Emergent Opportunities for Science Learning in your Nature-Based Program with Sarah Thornbrugh

Microbiology for Middle Schoolers with Katherine Parisky

Differentiation in the Nature-Based Classroom with Kim DeLaura

Embracing Our Child-Selves: Being Great Educators Through a Playful Lens with Emily Provencher-Hohen

Differentiation in the Nature-Based Classroom with Kim DeLaura

Click here for full workshop descriptions and presenter bios!