Welcome to this enlightening episode where we dive into the transformative journey of Ade Hofmann, founder of Nature Play All Day. With over a decade of traditional teaching under her belt, Ade made a bold move to redefine early childhood education by embracing the outdoors and the power of play.

Episode Highlights:

From Traditional to Transformative: Ade Hofmann shares her inspiring story of leaving behind the conventional classroom to create an immersive, nature-based learning environment for young children. Discover how her experiences have shaped her unique philosophy that "living is learning" and play is an essential right for all children.

The Power of Observation: Learn about the pivotal moment when Ade realized that children thrive when given the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace. She recounts the day she observed young children collaborating and problem-solving, which led her to embrace a hands-off approach that encourages child-led exploration.

Flipping the Script: Ade discusses how she has redefined what early childhood education should look, sound, and feel like. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to be themselves, meeting them with warmth and compassion, and providing the space and time for them to learn on their own terms.

The Approach: Discover the principles behind Ade's approach to education, which focuses on not interrupting play, talking less, and connecting more deeply with children. This approach not only benefits the children's development but also supports educators, caregivers, and parents in avoiding burnout.

Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk: This episode features an exclusive tour and talk about Outdoor Classrooms, where Ade shares insights into creating enriching outdoor learning environments.

Exclusive Access for CIRCLE Members: If you're a CIRCLE Member, you have access to a beautiful slide presentation that complements this episode, providing visual insights into the Outdoor Classrooms and Ade's teaching philosophy.

Invitation to Change: Ade invites listeners to embrace observation and let children lead their learning journey. By doing so, educators and parents can open a portal to infinite learning and experience profound changes in their own lives.

Join us in this episode as we explore how Ade Hofmann is disrupting early childhood education for the better, one play session at a time. Whether you're an educator, parent, or caregiver, Ade's insights will inspire you to rethink the role of play in learning and the importance of stepping back to let children lead.

We hope you enjoy this episode and find inspiration in Ade's journey and philosophy. Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations on redefining education and fostering meaningful learning experiences for children.

Meet Ade:

In 2017, I left over a decade of traditional teaching experience behind when I traded fluorescent lights for sunshine. Over the last seven years, I have continued to rewrite the narrative of what early childhood looks and feels like for not only children but educators.

My philosophy for early childhood education is that living is learning and that play is an essential right to for all! I believe my purpose is to teach as many educators as possible how to lean into observation and incorporate nature into uninterrupted play.

Connect with Ade:

Nature Play All Day Website: https://www.natureplayallday.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natureplayallday/

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

Join us for a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Griff Griffith, a master storyteller and passionate advocate for the natural world. In this episode, Griff takes us on a journey through personal stories and experiences that have shaped his life's mission to protect, conserve, and understand nature.

Highlights from the Episode:

Family Roots: Griff shares touching stories about his grandmother, whose love for nature and storytelling sparked his early curiosity and passion for the environment.

Adventures of a Young Naturalist: Hear about Griff's adventures as a young man, exploring the wild and learning valuable lessons that would guide his future work in conservation.

Becoming a "Solutionary": Discover Griff's journey to becoming a "solutionary," someone who not only identifies problems but actively works towards solutions for a better world.

Inspiring Change Through Stories: Griff discusses the power of storytelling in inspiring others to connect with nature and take action to protect it.

Engaging the Next Generation: Learn how Griff uses his storytelling skills to engage and inspire young people, encouraging them to become stewards of the environment.

Connect with Griff:

Follow Griff's storytelling adventures on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok

Dive deeper into nature stories on the Jumpstart Nature Podcast

Meet Griff:

Griff Griffith is a renowned nature interpreter and former host of Animal Planet’s Wild Jobs. With over 30 years of hands-on experience—including fish and wildlife surveys, wildland firefighting, trail construction, commercial fishing, farming, and leading ecological restoration crews—Griff has dedicated his life to understanding and protecting the natural world.

Now, as an ecologically conscious social media expert, he shares his deep passion for wildlife and conservation, helping people connect with nature and coexist more harmoniously with it.

A captivating public speaker, Griff has appeared on CNN, NBC Nightly News, The Kelly Clarkson Show, MTV, various documentaries, and numerous other media outlets, inspiring audiences with his knowledge and enthusiasm for conservation. Through his work with Jumpstart Nature, Redwoods Rising, and as a natural and cultural resource interpreter, he continues to make a meaningful impact on both people and the environment.

Griff regularly creates viral nature interpretive videos across Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, with several reaching millions of views. He also hosts the Jumpstart Nature Podcast, one of the top-ranked nature podcasts worldwide.

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Stacy Morgan, a dedicated Family Childcare Provider at Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy. Discover how Stacy transitioned from a career in banking to early childhood education, driven by her passion for fostering child-led and nature-based learning environments.

In this episode, Stacy shares her philosophy on integrating nature into daily learning, emphasizing the importance of allowing children to explore and learn at their own pace. Her innovative approach has not only enriched the lives of countless children but also earned her the prestigious 2025 Excellence in Early Childhood Award from the Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood (DIEEC).

Key Highlights:

• Stacy's career transition from banking to early childhood education.
• The benefits of nature-based learning and child-led exploration.
• Insights into the operations and philosophy of Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy.
• Stacy's recognition by DIEEC and the impact of her work on the community.
• Tips for parents and educators on incorporating nature into learning experiences.

Tune in to be inspired by Stacy's commitment Family Childcare and to creating enriching, nature-focused educational experiences and learn how you can incorporate similar practices into your own life or educational setting.

Meet Stacy:

The Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood (DIEEC) proudly honors Stacy Morgan of Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy with the 2025 Excellence in Early Childhood Award in the family child care educator category. Stacy's journey from babysitting and church nursery care to a successful banking career, and finally to early childhood education, reflects her belief in a higher calling. As she puts it, “I’m exactly where God wants me to be!”

Stacy's approach is rooted in building strong relationships and creating a child-led learning environment. Her work is more than a job; it’s a joyful and purposeful part of her life. Parents praise her as “patient, understanding, and resourceful,” noting the growth their children experience under her care. For Stacy, excellence means supporting both the child and their family, emphasizing the importance of relationships in education.

Her program focuses on learning through play and nature, inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience. With themes like “Math Monday” and “Artsy Thursday,” Stacy balances structured learning with child-led exploration. Her ability to multitask and adapt is key to her success in the dynamic family child care setting.

Stacy's dedication, compassion, and ingenuity make her an invaluable asset to the Delaware early childhood community. As she says, “My work is not a job, it’s a lifestyle, and that’s why it’s so easy to connect with my little learners and my families".

Links:

Little Bit of Sunshine Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/LittleBitOfSunshineDaycareAndPreschool

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

In this episode, we delve into the innovative world of outdoor education at the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston, where the Boston Outdoor Preschool Network (BOPN) has established a unique learning environment. Join educators Ava and Alexandra as they share their experiences and insights into this inspiring program that combines nature and education to foster young minds.

Topics Covered:

The distinctive setting of the Franklin Park Zoo as an outdoor classroom and its benefits for early childhood education.

Ava's passion for merging environmental education with early childhood development.

Alexandra's dedication to creative storytelling and education in communities of color.

The impact of BOPN's free, public outdoor preschool on young learners and the community.

The significance of nurturing creative relationships with local land and history for sustainable futures.

Personal interests and contributions of Ava and Alexandra beyond the classroom.

MEET ALEXANDRA:

Alex Chapman began working with Boston Outdoor Preschool last September with their Boston Pre-K program at the zoo. They are passionate about creative storytelling and education in communities of color. After graduating from New York University where they studied Anthropology and Public Health alongside minors in Indigenous Studies and Public Policy, Alex spent a year with the National Park Service in Savannah, GA working on youth education and community engagement projects. Beyond teaching, they volunteer with 826 Boston and serve as the archival producer on the upcoming documentary, AfroArgentina. Alex believes creative relationships with local land and history are essential for sustainable futures and it is ever more important to develop those early with young children. 

MEET AVA:

Ava Bradley is a teacher with Boston Outdoor Preschool Network, working at the Franklin Park Zoo location during the spring of 2025 and now at the Arboretum location for summer 2025. Ava has a background in both outdoor/environmental education and early childhood, and was very excited to combine these passions by working at BOPN! She is also an undergraduate student at Brown University concentrating in Education Studies and Linguistics, with a focus on community-based educational praxis and sociolinguistic diversity. In her free time, you can find Ava reading, knitting, cooking lots of vegetables, practicing yoga, rock climbing, and spending lots of time with living things, including her cat Garbanzo Bean. 

CONTACT BOSTON OUTDOOR PRESCHOOL NETWORK (BOPN):

Website - https://www.bopn.org/

Phone number is (774) 500-4008

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Madeleine Braden and Amber Brown, the passionate founders of Barefoot University. Discover how they are connecting homeschool families to nature and each other through their innovative approach to education. Learn about the physical, educational, and spiritual benefits of spending time outdoors and how it can be a vital part of your child's learning experience.

Our Mission: Barefoot University is dedicated to fostering child-led experiences, play, and hands-on outdoor learning. By following forest school principles, the organization encourages outdoor exploration, risk play, and nature-based skills. The aim is to build strong communities of families who meet weekly and focus on yearly learning rhythms, including community service projects.

Our Beginnings: Founded in 2019 by two moms seeking a community that shared their love for nature, Barefoot University has grown into a nationwide 501(c)3 registered non-profit. Madelyn and Amber share their journey from the early days to the present, highlighting how BU has sprouted into a thriving network that connects families with nature.

Key Takeaways:

The importance of integrating nature into your child's education.

How Barefoot University fosters a sense of community among homeschool families.

Insights into the benefits of outdoor learning and play.

Contact:

Barefoot University Forest School

Instagram: barefoot_university

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative journey of stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing new challenges in outdoor education. We explore the concept of the comfort zone and its implications for educators, identifying common limiting beliefs that may hold teachers back. With practical strategies for overcoming these beliefs, we guide listeners through the process of setting ambitious stretch goals that push the boundaries of traditional teaching methods.

This episode offers a comprehensive action plan for implementing these goals, utilizing resources and tracking progress to ensure continuous improvement. Join us as we inspire educators to leap into new arenas, crafting their own parachute for success in outdoor education.

Key Highlights:

• Understanding the Comfort Zone: We define the comfort zone and discuss the risks of staying within it, particularly for outdoor educators who face unique challenges.
• Identifying Limiting Beliefs: Discover how limiting beliefs manifest in teaching and learn how to recognize and address these barriers to growth.
• Strategies to Overcome Limiting Beliefs: Gain insight into techniques for reframing negative beliefs, using positive affirmations, and seeking support and mentorship.
• Creating Stretch Goals: Understand the importance of setting stretch goals and receive guidance on crafting SMART goals to enhance your teaching practice.
• Action Plan for Implementation: Learn how to develop a strategic plan, utilize available tools and resources, and track your progress to adapt and succeed.

This episode is a must-listen for educators ready to innovate and expand their horizons in the realm of outdoor education.

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

In this episode, we delve into the Quiet Achievers Dilemma and Invisible Success Syndrome, exploring how these concepts affect educators in outdoor settings. We discuss the importance of storytelling in education, the potential consequences of remaining silent, and the power of shared outdoor classroom stories to create a nature-based education movement. Join us as we provide practical tips for overcoming self-doubt and encourage educators to write and share their unique experiences teaching outdoors.

Key Topics:

* Introduction to Quiet Achievers Dilemma and Invisible Success Syndrome: Understanding the internal conflicts faced by educators who feel their achievements aren't significant or acknowledged.

* The Role of Storytelling in Education: Exploring the historical and educational value of storytelling in connecting people and enhancing learning.

* Consequences of Silence: Discussing the potential loss of knowledge and inspiration if educators don't share their stories.

* Creating a Movement: How shared stories can lead to collective action and community building among outdoor educators.

* Overcoming Self-Doubt: Practical strategies for recognizing and overcoming feelings of inadequacy and pressure to meet high standards.

* Encouraging Educators to Share: Breaking barriers to writing and sharing, and the importance of every story in inspiring others.

Call to Action:

* Reflect on your own experiences and consider the impact of sharing your story with others on the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and in our CIRCLE Membership Community.

* Connect with fellow educators to exchange ideas, resources, and support in our CIRCLE Membership Community and/or the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program.

* Start writing and sharing your story, whether through journaling, blogging, or contributing to community newsletters. Set up a 1-1 Call with Victoria and share it.

"Your story is unique, and it has the power to inspire and uplift others. Don't let it remain untold."

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this episode and your own experiences with Quiet Achievers Dilemma and Invisible Success Syndrome. Use the hashtag #OutdoorEducatorStori​e​s to join the conversation on social media.

In this episode, we explore the integration of sustainable practices into outdoor classrooms. Discover how eco-friendly materials, water conservation, gardening, composting, and wildlife habitats can enrich educational experiences while promoting environmental stewardship. Join us as we delve into practical tips and inspiring ideas to make outdoor learning spaces more sustainable and impactful.

Importance of sustainability in education.

* Relevance of sustainable practices in outdoor classrooms.

* Eco-friendly Materials: Use of recycled materials for a "Maker Space" Garden

Water Conservation

* Benefits of rainwater harvesting systems.

* Activities to teach children about water conservation.

Gardening and Composting

* Educational benefits of school gardens.

* Composting as a tool for waste reduction and soil enrichment.

Wildlife Habitats

* Creating habitats to support local wildlife.

* Teaching students about ecosystems and biodiversity.

Engaging Students and Community

* Involving students in sustainable projects.

* Role of community involvement in sustainability efforts.

Call to Action: We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences with sustainability in outdoor classrooms! Share your stories and ideas with us on social media or via email.

Exploring Nature in Summer Masterclass: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-summer-masterclass/

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

In this episode, we dive into the exciting opportunities that summer break offers for outdoor learning and exploration. With school out, it's the perfect time for families to engage in meaningful experiences that foster growth, creativity, and connection with nature. Join us as we explore various ways to make the most of the summer months with engaging outdoor activities and learning opportunities.

Episode Highlights:

Engaging Families in Outdoor Learning:

Discover how family involvement in outdoor learning can strengthen bonds and provide valuable educational experiences.

Explore ideas like family nature scavenger hunts, gardening projects, and weekend camping trips that encourage exploration and learning together.

Creating a Summer Nature Journal:

Learn about the benefits of starting a nature journal as a creative outlet for children to document their summer adventures.

Get tips on how to begin a nature journal, including what to include and how it can enhance observation skills and creativity.

Technology and Nature: Finding the Balance:

Understand how technology can be a tool for enhancing outdoor learning experiences.

Discover apps for bird watching and plant identification, and learn how to set boundaries for screen time to ensure direct nature experiences.

Community Involvement and Local Nature Spots:

Find out about local parks, nature reserves, and community gardens that families can explore.

Learn about the benefits of connecting with community resources and participating in guided tours or educational programs.

Mindfulness and Relaxation in Nature:

Explore the mental health benefits of spending time in nature and how mindfulness practices can enhance these experiences.

Try simple mindfulness exercises like mindful walking and breathing techniques to help children relax and connect with their surroundings.

Featured Resource:

Exploring Nature in Summer Masterclass: Discover a wealth of activities and ideas to make the most of the summer months with our masterclass designed to inspire outdoor learning and exploration. Sign up here: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/exploring-nature-in-summer-masterclass/

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck

In this enlightening episode, we delve into a fascinating conversation with Ryan Blosser, a visionary in the realms of farming, education, and mental health. Our discussion centers on the vital connection between educational standards and farm life at the Waynesboro Education Farm, emphasizing the key ingredient to success: relationships. Through storytelling, Ryan shares his insights on the importance of creative problem-solving in making farm-based learning a standard part of education.

Join us for an inspiring episode that highlights the transformative power of integrating farm experiences into educational frameworks, fostering creativity, and building resilient communities through strong relationships.

Meet Ryan Blosser:

Ryan Blosser is a farmer, educator, permaculture designer, writer, and mental health professional. He is the co-founder of the Shenandoah Permaculture Institute and the owner/operator of Dancing Star Farm. With an MA and Ed.S. in clinical mental health counseling from James Madison University, Ryan has a rich background in fostering community health through permaculture design. His previous roles include serving as the Executive Director of Project GROWS and teaching permaculture design in Staunton Public Schools. Currently, he is dedicated to the development of the Waynesboro Education Farm, where he continues to integrate his twin passions for food and people. Ryan resides in Churchville, VA.

Contact Ryan Blosser:

* Email: [email protected]

* Website: https://www.waynesboro.k12.va.us/page/waynesboro-education-farm

* Book: https://a.co/d/1Ii7Qis

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com
• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck