


Outdoor Classroom and
Nature Based Preschool
"Simply put, nature-based early childhood education for young children (0-8 years old) is where learning occurs in the context of nature. There are many program models that are considered nature-based early childhood education. Nature preschools, are licensed early childhood programs for 3-5 year olds where at least 30% of the class day is held outside, nature is infused into all aspects of the program, and the pedagogy emphasizes inquiry-based learning through play and hands-on discovery."- Samara Early Learning LLC
There are many ways to transition and start to make simple changes that support greater outdoor learning and experiences. This wonderful learning model not only supports whole child learning, but has shown to be a successful and safe option for schools during Covid.

What is Nature Based Preschool?
Outdoor Classroom Project
Outdoor Learning: A Solution for Schools During COVID 19
In July 2020, the Inside-Outside advisory group collaborated to write a position statement on outdoor learning. This position statement quickly gained the attention of tens of thousands of people interested in how schools can transition learning outdoors as a way to safely reopen
To read the article click here!
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Nature Starts "Teaching in the Time of COVID"
How to Start Your Own Outdoor Classroom
Outdoor Learning Solutions for Schools During Covid

Resources for Nature-Based Learning
Natural Start Professional Practices Guidebook
https://naturalstart.org/nature-based-preschool-professional-practice-guidebook
NAAEE Early Childhood Environmental Education Guidelines for Excellence
https://naaee.org/eepro/resources/early-childhood-environmental-education
Redleaf Press
MNECO (Minnesota Early Childhood Outdoors)
https://jeffersfoundation.org/mneco-minnesota-early-childhood-outdoors/
Natural Start Alliance (National Conference for Nature-Based Early Childhood Educators)
https://naturalstart.org/
Four Seasons at a Nature Based Preschool
https://www.dodgenaturecenter.org/preschool/about-us/preschool-publications
Shirley G. Moore Laboratory School at the University of Minnesota
Samsara Early Learning LLC
