The Transformative Power of Nature-Based Education Workshops for Teachers

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:

• Enhanced Teaching Skills: Exposure to nature-based education methods encourages educators to adopt new teaching strategies that are more engaging and effective.
• Improved Student Outcomes: Educators who undergo training in nature-based education can better facilitate experiential learning, leading to improved student understanding and retention of information.
• Stress Reduction: Spending time in nature reduces stress and promotes well-being, which can improve an educator's capacity to teach effectively.
• Encourages Environmental Stewardship: Educators who are trained in nature-based education are better equipped to instill a sense of environmental responsibility and stewardship in their students.
• Innovation and Creativity: Nature-based education encourages creativity and innovation in lesson planning and delivery, making learning more dynamic and interactive.
• Building Stronger Connections: It fosters a deeper connection between educators, students, and the natural world, enhancing overall engagement and participation.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Nature-based education often integrates multiple subjects, promoting a holistic approach to learning that benefits both educators and students.

Outdoor Classrooms 1-hour Workshop mentioned:

• Buddy Builders Outdoors: Get Acquainted Activities workshop details REGISTER HERE!
• Relevant articles or studies on the decline of playtime (if applicable)

Call to Action:

• Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast for more insights
• Share this episode with fellow educators and parents
• Reach out to [email protected] for more questions or topic suggestions

Outdoor Classroom Resources:

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

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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:

• www.alleghenylandtrust.org/events
• www.paee.net

Outdoor Classrooms 1-hour Workshop mentioned:

• Buddy Builders Outdoors: Get Acquainted Activities workshop details REGISTER HERE!
• Relevant articles or studies on the decline of playtime (if applicable)

Call to Action:

• Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast for more insights
• Share this episode with fellow educators and parents
• Reach out to [email protected] for more questions or topic suggestions

Outdoor Classroom Resources:

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

1. Open the Apple Podcasts app.
2. Search for Outdoor Classrooms Podcast
3. Tap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.
4. Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

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3. Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
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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.

Episode Summary:

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:

• Introduction to the topic and its relevance
• Statistical overview of the decline in children's playtime
• Factors contributing to the reduction of playtime (e.g., technology, academic pressures, safety concerns)
• The role of free play in social and emotional development
• Insights from experts on the impacts of reduced playtime on friendships
• Questions parents and educators can use to promote playtime
• Preview of the Buddy Builders Outdoors: Get Acquainted Activities workshop

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the crucial role of play in childhood development
• Recognizing the current trends and statistics on children's playtime
• Identifying common obstacles to play and finding ways to overcome them
• An invitation to join our workshop for practical tips and activities to encourage more playtime and enhance social connections among children

Resources Mentioned:

• Buddy Builders Outdoors: Get Acquainted Activities workshop details REGISTER HERE!
• Relevant articles or studies on the decline of playtime (if applicable)

Call to Action:

• Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast for more insights
• Share this episode with fellow educators and parents
• Reach out to [email protected] for more questions or topic suggestions

Outdoor Classroom Resources:

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

1. Open the Apple Podcasts app.
2. Search for Outdoor Classrooms Podcast
3. Tap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.
4. Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

1. Open the Spotify app.
2. Go to the Outdoor Classrooms podcast page.
3. Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
4. Leave a rating of your choice.

Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

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:

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

1. Open the Apple Podcasts app.
2. Search for Outdoor Classrooms Podcast
3. Tap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.
4. Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

1. Open the Spotify app.
2. Go to the Outdoor Classrooms podcast page.
3. Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
4. Leave a rating of your choice.

Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Episode 117: The Power of Persistence in Outdoor Classrooms

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:

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

1. Open the Apple Podcasts app.
2. Search for Outdoor Classrooms Podcast
3. Tap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.
4. Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

1. Open the Spotify app.
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3. Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
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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.

Podcast Episode 116: The Answer is YES, The Question is HOW with Andy Webster from the Walden ProjectGuest Bio:

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:

• Embrace Opportunities: The importance of keeping an open mind and saying "YES" to new challenges.
• Problem-Solving Mindset: Focus on how to tackle obstacles rather than being deterred by them.
• Community Engagement: Strategies for fostering community participation and enhancing collaboration with the Walden Project.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Walden Project Website 
• The Walden Project Facebook

Outdoor Classroom Resources:

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

1. Open the Apple Podcasts app.
2. Search for Outdoor Classrooms Podcast
3. Tap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.
4. Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

1. Open the Spotify app.
2. Go to the Outdoor Classrooms podcast page.
3. Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
4. Leave a rating of your choice.

Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Legacy of Bloom: Family Tales of Gardening with the HackettsEpisode Overview:

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:

• Meet the Hacketts: Say hello to the family and learn what gardening means to them.
• Generational Stories: Heartwarming tales from different generations of Hacketts, highlighting their passion for gardening.
• Family Traditions: Special traditions and rituals the Hacketts follow in their gardening practice.
• Funny & Heartwarming Stories: Laugh and be inspired by the tales of gardening successes and oops moments.

Call to Action:

Feeling inspired? Grab your gloves and start planting! Share your own family gardening stories with us on social media using #HackettGardenLegacy 🌸

Outdoor Classroom Resources:

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

1. Open the Apple Podcasts app.
2. Search for Outdoor Classrooms Podcast
3. Tap on our podcast, scroll down to the 'Ratings & Reviews' section.
4. Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

1. Open the Spotify app.
2. Go to the Outdoor Classrooms podcast page.
3. Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
4. Leave a rating of your choice.

Thank You! We appreciate your support and look forward to reading your reviews. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Introduction

Welcome to today's special episode! We are thrilled to host Angela Hanscom, the esteemed author of Balanced and Barefoot. This LIVE Q&A event was inspired by our insightful discussions during the book club within the CIRCLE Membership. After diving deep into Angela's valuable insights, our members were inspired to initiate separate discussion groups with parents at their schools. This excitement ultimately led us to invite Angela to join us for this engaging session.

Angela J. Hanscom is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of TimberNook—an award-winning developmental and nature-based program that has gained international popularity. She is the author of Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children. Hanscom is also a frequent contributor to The Washington Post and in 2019 won the Small Business of the Year Award for the State of New Hampshire.  

Keynote: The Decline of Outdoor Play – And the Rise in Sensory Issues (90 minutes)

As we continue to decrease children’s time and space to move and play outdoors, we are seeing a simultaneous rise in the number of children that are presenting with sensory and motor deficits. At the same time, classroom teachers are observing more and more children having trouble with attention, falling out of their seats in school, increased clumsiness, and even aggressiveness with games like tag on the playground. 

So, how can we reverse this alarming trend of sensory and motor issues in children? How can we ensure that children are fully engaging their body, mind, and all of their senses?

Using the same philosophy that lies at the heart of her popular TimberNook program—that nature is the ultimate sensory experience, and that psychological and physical health improves for children when they spend time outside on a regular basis—Angela Hanscom offers several strategies to help children thrive in outdoor environments using a therapeutic approach to nature play. 

Episode Highlights

• Introduction to Angela Hanscom: Learn more about Angela’s journey and what inspired her to write Balanced and Barefoot.
• Key Takeaways from the Book: A discussion on the core messages and teachings of Balanced and Barefoot.
• Live Q&A Session:
• Implementing the Lessons: Strategies and tips shared by Angela on how to apply the book's teachings in everyday life and within school communities.

Key Quotes

• "Children's outdoor play is not just a luxury; it's a necessity for their development." – Angela Hanscom
• "The unstructured playtime children experience outdoors is critical for their physical and emotional growth." – Angela Hanscom

Resources Mentioned

• Balanced and Barefoot Book
• Timbernook website ](Link to Angela's website for more resources and information)
• CIRCLE Membership Community

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this session as much as we did! If you couldn’t join us live, we’re glad you’re here to catch up. This discussion with Angela Hanscom has been enlightening, and we are excited to see how these ideas can positively impact our communities.

Call to Action

• Join the Discussion: Continue the conversation in our CIRCLE Membership Community.
• Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on our future live events! Subscribe to the Seedling News.
• Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring more valuable content to you.

How to Leave a Review for Our Podcast

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed today's episode, consider leaving us a review. Here’s how:

For Apple Podcasts:

1. Open the Apple Podcasts app.
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4. Tap 'Write a Review', rate the podcast, and write your review.

For Spotify:

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3. Tap the three dots, and select ‘Rate Show.’
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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 of "Roots of Learning," we explore the innovative ways that elementary school teachers can integrate nature into their science education curriculum. Our discussion delves into the importance of connecting young learners with the natural world and how this connection can enhance their understanding of scientific concepts.

Key Points Discussed:

• The Benefits of Nature-Based Learning: We discuss the myriad benefits of incorporating nature into classroom lessons, including increased student engagement, improved academic performance, and enhanced emotional well-being.
• Strategies for Teachers: Practical tips and strategies for teachers looking to bring the outdoors into their science teaching. This includes outdoor classrooms, nature walks, and utilizing local natural resources.
• Case Studies and Success Stories: Real-life examples of schools and teachers who have successfully implemented nature-based science education and the positive impacts it had on their students.
• Overcoming Challenges: Insight into the potential obstacles teachers might face when integrating nature into their curriculum and how to effectively overcome these challenges.

Meet Victoria:

Victoria Zablocki is a certified elementary teacher turned outdoor educator with over a decade of experience in teaching and coaching teachers. Passionate about making science approachable, digestible, and enjoyable, Victoria's mission is to nurture the whole child through innovative science education. With a vision of inspiring elementary teachers to make science a priority, she empowers educators to use nature as a dynamic classroom to meet curricular needs and foster a love of learning.

Links and References:

• Naturally Teaching Website
• Naturally Teaching Elementary School podcast
• Naturally Teaching store

Call to Action:

We encourage our listeners to explore the mentioned resources and consider adopting nature-based science education strategies in their classrooms. Join our outdoor-classrooms.com community forum to share your experiences and connect with like-minded educators!

Social Media Handles & Resources

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• EMAIL
• Join the Exploring Nature in Summer Masterclass

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• The Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck
• FREE PDF Library of Nature-Based Children's Books & Weekly Seedling News

Summary: In this episode, we explore how gardens can be transformed into outdoor learning stations that enrich educational experiences for students. We'll discuss the benefits of hands-on learning, the integration of gardening into various subjects, and the benefits of adding learning stations to your outdoor classroom.

Key Points Discussed

The main topics covered in the episode:

• The concept of outdoor learning stations
• Educational benefits of a variety of outdoor learning stations
• Incorporating curriculum into playful learning outdoors

Call to Action

After listening to this episode, post a picture of your outdoor classrooms learning stations on in our Outdoor Classrooms Facebook group.

We hope you enjoyed this episode! Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and visit our website for more resources on how to integrate gardening into your school's curriculum. Follow us on social media for daily inspiration and gardening tips!

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

• EMAIL
• Join the Exploring Nature in Summer Masterclass

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES:

• The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE Membership
• The Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp
• Seeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck
• FREE PDF Library of Nature-Based Children's Books & Weekly Seedling News