Freebies!
Free resources related to nature-based early childhood education
Clear hiring is kind
“Clear is kind.” It’s a phrase Brené Brown uses often and it’s one of my favorites–particularly when it comes to hiring staff. And for many in the northern hemisphere, right now is the height of hiring between the end and beginning of the school years.
Not fun, necessary
Policies and procedures. Probably not your favorite topic, eh? It’s not my favorite either.
Belonging through onboarding
The onboarding process should create a sense of belonging. New staff should feel they belong and are part of the team while also feeling they can be their authentic selves as a member of the team.
Explicit expectations
If expectations don’t match reality we can experience resentment, frustration, and a myriad of other emotions. It’s for this reason it’s important to be clear about our expectations–to ourselves and to others involved.
How nature-y is it?
The number of nature-based programs is continuing to increase throughout the world. This is great news! And yet...not all of these programs are really “nature-based.” Some programs go outside every day and call that enough.
Managing the Shift to a Nature-Based Approach in Your Program
In this webinar Dr. Rachel Larimore addressed the foundational administrative and pedagogical practices to successfully shift your team to a nature-based approach. Most importantly, she addressed the human element, including how to best support staff and families in your evolving infusion of nature.
Welcoming staff to your program
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she gives suggestions for effectively welcoming staff to your program.
Tips for hiring and job search season
In this post Rachel gives tips for hiring and job search season. This information is great for interviewers and interviewees alike!
The boring stuff matters: Policies, procedures, and more!
I know, I know—policies and procedures are boring, but they are SO important to operating successful nature-based programs.
Taking a break that meets your needs
However you choose to spend your break, I hope you find restoration and rejuvenation.
Infants and toddlers need outdoor play too!
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore discusses the importance of outdoor play for infants and toddlers.
Defining nature-based preschools
In this article published by the International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education, Rachel Larimore reflects on a few of the program terms currently being discussed among early childhood environmental education professionals.
Program considerations for establishing a nature-based preschool
Are you looking to start a nature-based school? In this article, Rachel Larimore discusses the importance of establishing a program philosophy and evaluating your available resources for before starting a nature-based school.
Getting down to business: Turning your ideas into reality
In this article, David Catlin, a colleague of Samara Early Learning, discusses how to turn your ideas for a nature-based preschool into reality.
How to lead a nature-based program without losing your purpose (or mind!)
This webinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, helps early childhood administrators identify the principles and benefits of a nature-based approach.
Preschool Beyond Walls: Integrating nature into the preschool classroom
This recorded edWebinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, helps early childhood providers consider the principles fundamental to a nature-based approach and integrate those principles into teaching practice.
Joys & challenges of managing a nature-based program
Managing a nature-based program can be challenging, but there are also many joys! This webinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, helps early childhood administrators identify the principles fundamental to nature-based education and the benefits of such an approach.
The power of video
In this era of seemingly endless isolation and disconnection, video is a way to re-connect!
Go/No-Go checklist for starting a nature-based school
Ready to start planning your own nature-based school?! The Go/No-Go Checklist will help you avoid potential costly mistakes as you get started.