By Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
5
77 ratings
The podcast currently has 125 episodes available.
Episode Overview
LISTEN TO THE PLAYLIST HERE
In this special playlist, we dive into the vibrant world of outdoor play, exploring diverse frameworks, pedagogical approaches, and schemas. Tune in as we unravel the tapestry of outdoor education through eight thoughtfully curated episodes that will inspire and transform your understanding of play.
Episode Highlights: CHOOSE YOUR EPISODE HERE.
Episode 1. How Does Nature Impact Young Children's Wellbeing?
Episode 4. What is Nature Pedagogy?
Episode 6. Five Phases of Teaching Outdoors: A Framework
Episode 10. Four Outdoor Classroom Garden Types
Episode 13. The Magic of Mud Play
Episode 49. Eight Schemas of Play for Outdoor Learning
Episode 50. How to Add Floorbooks and Talking Tubs to Your Outdoor Classrooms
Episode 96. Five Ways to Introduce Poetry into the Outdoor Classroom
Conclusion
Concluding our playlist, we reflect on the integral role that nature plays in fostering holistic education. By embracing diverse frameworks, pedagogies, and schemas, we can cultivate more meaningful outdoor play opportunities that inspire and empower learners.
Unlocking the Outdoors: Teacher Certification Program
Introduction
Step 1: Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp
Step 2: Explore Nature: A Year-Long Journey
Step 3: Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course
Onboarding Call
Conclusion
Resources
Go to our On-Line Course Library for more information:
In this enchanting Outdoor Classroom Tour and Talk episode, we take you on a virtual tour of the Chicago Botanic Gardens with Emma Donnelly, an expert educator well-versed in transforming outdoor spaces into vibrant classrooms. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems within the gardens and explore the benefits of incorporating nature into educational settings. Whether you're an educator, parent, or nature enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to inspire your next outdoor adventure.
Key Takeaways:Emma Donnelly is an esteemed educator at the Chicago Botanic Gardens, specializing in outdoor learning and environmental education. She has been a nature educator for over a decade and has worked as an informal nature educator at various museums and zoos, including the Saint Louis Zoo, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the Lincoln Park Zoo. She graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a BS in Biology in 2016 and obtained her Master's in Early Childhood Education from the American College of Education in 2023. Emma is currently the Assistant Preschool Director and a Lead Teacher for a 3-5-year-old class at the Chicago Botanic Garden Nature Preschool, a program that follows an emergent, child-directed curriculum. As a teacher, Emma focuses on social-emotional learning and advocacy to build a strong classroom community, using literacy as a springboard for learning and connection while fostering nature stewardship and a love of the outdoors.
Resources Mentioned:Follow us on social media and share your thoughts using the hashtag #OutdoorClassroomPodcast.
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Episode Description: In today’s episode, we delve into the transformative power of nature-based education for educators. We discuss why it’s crucial for teachers to invest in professional development in this area and explore the myriad benefits it brings to both educators and students. Join us as we uncover the secrets to more effective, engaging, and stress-free teaching through the wonders of nature.
Key Topics Covered:
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In this episode, we sit down with Julie Travaglini, the Senior Director of Education and Curriculum at Allegheny Land Trust. Julie shares her journey and passion for environmental education, emphasizing the importance and benefits of connecting people with nature. She discusses various strategies for effective teaching and engagement, highlighting some of the innovative programs her team is currently developing. Listeners will hear about impactful projects, including success stories that showcase the noticeable impacts of their initiatives. Additionally, Julie provides insights into upcoming projects and her vision for the future of environmental education.
For more information about the programs and events at Allegheny Land Trust, visit Allegheny Land Trust Events. Feel free to connect with Julie or learn more about their work through their website or social media platforms. Lastly, we encourage our listeners to reflect on how environmental education has impacted their perspective on nature and conservation. Share your thoughts and experiences with us on our social media channels or through our website.
MEET JULIE:
Julie Travaglini is the Senior Director of Education and Curriculum for Allegheny Land Trust. In her role, she creates hands-on, stem and place based lessons for children and adults alike as well as providing state accredited professional development. Working in the field for almost 20 years, she regularly travels the country speaking on the importance of environmental education. She is a community leader, serving as the President of the Pennsylvania Association of Environmental Educators as well as serving on the Board of the Western PA Mushroom Club and Beverly’s Birthdays. She recently self published a children’s book called Super Skills of Backyard Bugs, which is available on Amazon. In her spare time she can be found looking for mushrooms, kayaking or crocheting mythical creatures.
RESOURCES:
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In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, we explore the concerning decline in playtime among children and how it affects their ability to form friendships and develop essential social skills. Join us as we discuss the underlying reasons behind this decline and its long-term implications.
Key Points Discussed:Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:
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End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcast Playlist
In this dynamic episode, we explore five transformative educational approaches that shape the future of outdoor learning. We begin with the "Walden Project," an immersive nature-based initiative inspired by Henry David Thoreau, which fosters a deep connection with the environment through experiential education.
Next, we celebrate the enduring "Legacy of Bloom" with a special focus on family and gardening traditions. Join us as we dive into stories and memories shared by Victoria's own family, including the inspiring journey of her 91-year-old mother, who continues to cultivate her garden with love and dedication. This episode is a testament to the generational passion for gardening and how these roots continue to flourish, offering invaluable lessons and inspiration for outdoor learning.
We then shift our focus to "Balanced and Barefoot," discussing the importance of unstructured play in nature for children's physical and mental development.
Following this, "Roots of Learning Elementary Science" highlights innovative methods for integrating hands-on scientific exploration in outdoor settings.
Lastly, we delve into the "Therapeutic Forest School," examining how forest environments can be utilized to support emotional and psychological well-being in students.
Join us as we uncover these enriching educational practices and their lasting benefits.
End of Summer Special: Top 5 Podcast Playlist
Outdoor Classroom Resources:Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:
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Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.
In this episode, I explore the transformative world of outdoor classrooms, emphasizing their benefits and the vital importance of connecting students with nature. Drawing from my own experiences and expertise in outdoor education, I discuss how persistence plays a crucial role in achieving educational goals.
The episode begins with an in-depth look at the concept of outdoor classrooms, outlining their numerous advantages. I share personal anecdotes and experiences to illustrate the power of persistence in fostering a love for learning within these natural settings.
I also address the common challenges educators face when implementing outdoor classrooms and provide practical strategies for overcoming these obstacles. By highlighting real-world examples of successful outdoor classroom initiatives, I demonstrate the positive impact of persistence on student outcomes.
Throughout the episode, I recommend valuable tools and resources for educators who are eager to start or enhance their outdoor classroom programs. The episode wraps up with a summary of key takeaways, offering encouragement to educators to stay persistent and innovative in their teaching approaches.
Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the podcast for more episodes on innovative educational practices and to visit our website for additional resources and support. Furthermore, are invited to share their outdoor classrooms stories as a guest on the Podcast.
Outdoor Classroom Resources:Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:
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Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.
Andy Webster Andy is a New York State Certified Earth Science Teacher with a decade of experience as a public school science teacher. In 2017, Andy left the traditional classroom setting to begin The Walden Project: a full-time outdoor education program for teenagers based at Cumming Nature Center in Naples, New York that is inspired by Henry David Thoreau's famous sojourn to Walden Pond. The program is now entering its 7th year. Outside of teaching, Andy and his partner, Maggie, have four children and a small organic farm. Andy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Victoria sits down with Andy Webster to discuss the inspirational journey behind the Walden Project. The conversation dives deep into the philosophy of saying "YES" to opportunities and then figuring out "HOW" to make them happen.
Main Takeaways:Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:
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Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.
In this special episode of "Legacy of Bloom," we sit down with my 91 year old Mum Judith, and older brother, Christopher, to explore their deep-rooted love for gardening. Spanning several generations, the Hacketts share personal stories, cherished memories, and invaluable gardening tips that have been passed down through time. Jump into the garden with us as the Hackett family shares their stories, tips, and love for all things green! 🌿
Key Points:Feeling inspired? Grab your gloves and start planting! Share your own family gardening stories with us on social media using #HackettGardenLegacy 🌸
Outdoor Classroom Resources:Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:
For Apple Podcasts:
For Spotify:
Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.
The podcast currently has 125 episodes available.
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