Episode 135: The Importance of a Mark: Nature-based Journaling with Amy Wood

In this enlightening episode of our podcast, we delve into the art and science of nature-based journaling with expert and CIRCLE member Amy Wood. Join us as we explore the transformative power of combining nature with reflective journaling to deepen our young childrens' understanding and connection with the natural world.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Nature-Based Journaling: Amy introduces the research and concept of nature-based journaling, explaining its significance in today's fast-paced world. She articulates how this practice can enhance mindfulness and foster a deeper connection with nature.
• The Power of a Mark: Discover the impact that making a simple mark on paper can have on young children. Amy shares insights into how journaling these observations helps capture the essence of moments in nature, turning them into lasting memories.
• Practical Tips and Techniques: Amy offers practical advice on how to start your own nature journal program in your classroom, including the tools you need and methods to stay consistent with your children's journaling practice.
• Benefits for Educators and Students: Learn about the advantages of incorporating nature-based journaling into outdoor classrooms. Amy discusses how this practice can support learning outcomes and enhance student engagement with their environment.
• Inspiration for Your Own Practice: Amy shares stories from her own journaling journey in her outdoor classroom and encourages listeners to find their personal style, emphasizing that there's no right or wrong way to engage in nature-based journaling with young children.

Featured In:

• Outdoor Classroom Tour and Talks in the CIRCLE Membership Community
• Outdoor Classrooms Podcast Episode 135

Meet Amy:

Amy Wood’s passion for nature has been a defining feature of her classrooms throughout her 25-year career in early childhood education. Guiding toddlers through kindergarteners in various Montessori schools, she has consistently integrated the natural world into her teaching. Currently, Amy serves as the lead preschool teacher at SHED Children’s Campus, a nature-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired school in Andover, MA, where her students explore the woods daily.

In 2018, while working with toddlers, Amy attended a workshop titled “Why ‘Making Learning Visible’ is Important for Parents, Teachers, and Children.” Inspired by the workshop’s focus on capturing and showcasing the learning process, she developed a journaling program to support all areas of development. This program also addressed a common classroom challenge: the upset children felt when their prized drawings were misplaced. By incorporating journaling, Amy created a way for children to preserve and reflect on their work, fostering pride and deeper engagement in their learning. This transformative approach has since become a staple in her classrooms.

Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in math and science from Wheelock College and a Master of Arts in Montessori Education from St. Catherine University. She also has Montessori credentials at both the Infant & Toddler and Early Childhood levels, reflecting her deep expertise in child-centered education.

A heartfelt congratulations to Amy Wood for her extraordinary journaling project that continues to inspire and enrich our understanding of nature's role in education and personal growth.

Contact Amy HERE.

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