Advertise on podcast: Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

What does sustainability look like in the outdoor classroom—without the pressure to be perfect? In this episode, Victoria talks with sustainability advocate and content creator Alexa Pavan about weaving environmental and sustainability literacy into outdoor classrooms in meaningful, accessible ways. Together, they explore how outdoor learning can help children understand their connection to the planet while modeling curiosity, care, and progress over perfection. 🌿 Meet Alexa: Alexa Pavan is an imperfect sustainability advocate, eco content creator, and writer for sustainable businesses and environmental organizations. With a background in Biomedical Science and Public Health, she makes climate and environmental topics more approachable for everyday Americans through fun, light, and practical content. Alexa is especially passionate about composting, ocean conservation, and protecting both the planet and the people who inhabit it. 🌿 Contact Alexa: https://www.instagram.com/gogreenwithalexa https://www.youtube.com/@gogreenwithalexa www.gogreenwithalexa.com [email protected] Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: [email protected] Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: a...

January is a hard month in education—and winter often takes the blame. When directors call asking for ideas, strategies, or professional development, what they’re often really asking is: How do we support educators through this season? In this episode, we explore what sits beneath those January phone calls and why winter isn’t the problem it’s made out to be. Rather than offering quick fixes, this conversation focuses on what nature-based educators truly need right now: permission to slow down, validation, strong pedagogy, and reconnection to purpose. This episode is for directors, coaches, and educators navigating the long stretch of winter. In This Episode: Why January feels especially heavy in schools What schools think educators need vs. what they actually need How winter reveals cracks rather than creating them Why resistance is information, not failure The shift from activities to pedagogy in winter Winter isn’t asking educators to try harder. It’s asking us to root deeper. Join the Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. Workshop Mentioned: Rooted in Nature: Foundations of Nature-Based Pedagogy (included in CIRCLE Membership) FREE Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: [email protected] Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Related Episodes: Episode 4: What is...

Episode 182: "Oh, The Places You Will Go" – Ocean State Kids with Marial Leisge Join us for a behind-the-scenes tour with Marial Leisge, founder of Ocean State Kids, a nonprofit supporting parents as their child’s most influential teacher. In this Circle Member Tour & Talk, we explore the many programs Ocean State Kids offers across Rhode Island, from outdoor learning spaces to hands-on experiences that nurture curiosity, creativity, and connection in children. 💡 Circle Members get exclusive access to the full photo tour! Become a member today to go behind the scenes and see how Ocean State Kids empowers families to support their children’s growth. Inside this episode, you’ll discover: Stories and photos from Ocean State Kids’ programs across Rhode Island. How Marial fosters exploration, independence, and playful learning. Inspiration for parents, educators, and caregivers to create meaningful, nature-based experiences for children. About Marial Leisge: Marial Leisge is the founder of Ocean State Kids, a thriving community that helps parents become their child’s most influential teacher. A former branding and marketing professional, she shifted her career to education after her own journey into motherhood inspired a passion for supporting children and families in new, intentional ways. Marial is a CIRCLE Member and part of the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification program, deepening her expertise in nature-based learning, child development, and inclusive education. Her experiences as a mother to her son Otto, a Gestalt Language Processor, have shaped her approach to creating programs that honor children’s unique learning styles, foster confidence, and encourage curiosity. Whether she’s leading outdoor programs, crafting parent-centered workshops, or simply enjoying a moment of wonder with her own family, Marial is dedicated to building communities where children can explore, grow, and thrive—and where parents are empowered to guide them every step of the way. 🎧 Tune in and see the places young learners—and their guides—can go! 🌱 A Note for Potential Sponsors As we head into 2026, Outdoor Classrooms is seeking values-aligned sponsors who believe in nature-based education, community-centered learning, and teaching beyond walls. If that sounds like you—or someone you know—we’d love to connect. 🔗 Learn More & Stay Connected: FREE Resource: www.outdoor-classrooms.com 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 a href="https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/workshop-library/"...

In this heartfelt episode, we celebrate the life and legacy of Juliet Robertson, a passionate advocate for outdoor learning and play. Juliet inspired countless educators to embrace messy, hands-on experiences and to see the natural world as a classroom full of wonder. We reflect on her approach to teaching outdoors, her dedication to supporting teachers, and the joy she brought to children and adults alike. This episode is a tribute to her vision: that learning is richest when it’s playful, engaging, and a little bit messy. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Stories that capture Juliet’s infectious curiosity and joy for learning.Reflections on the impact she had on the outdoor education community.Insights into why embracing mess, exploration, and wonder matters in teaching. Whether you knew Juliet personally or are discovering her work for the first time, this episode is a celebration of her spirit and the enduring mark she leaves on educators and learners everywhere. Resources & Links: Juliet Robertson’s Resources – Explore her thoughts on outdoor learning and play.CREATIVE STAR LEARNING Reflection Prompt Where might you loosen your grip and allow learning to unfold more freely? Quote “Learning is not something we control—it is something we make space for.” — Inspired by Juliet Robertson Join the Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library 🎧 Episode 36, Messy Maths with Juliet Robertson Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: a href="http://www.outdoor-classrooms.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

In this special reflective episode, I pause to look back on 2025—a year filled with growth, connection, creativity, and community inside Outdoor Classrooms. Rather than an interview, this episode is an invitation to slow down. Together, we reflect on what it truly means to build outdoor classrooms over time—with intention, curiosity, and care—while looking ahead to what’s taking root for 2026. 🎙 In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: 🌱 Beginning and ending 2025 with the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp How starting—and closing—the year with Bootcamp created a powerful, cyclical rhythm for educators moving through the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program. 🌸 Life in the Secret Gardens Parent/child classes, drop-off afterschool programs, birthday celebrations, an art show, and what it looks like when children and adults are given space to truly slow down and connect with nature. 🔵 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone & Certification Milestones Celebrating our first graduates, their powerful capstone projects, and the ever-growing Graduate Testimonials page. 🏫 Professional Development & Conference Presentations Training with Evergreen Day School (Cambridge, MA), Roots and Wings Nature School (NH), Brookwood School (Beverly,Ma) and presentations at Natural Start and MEES. 🎧 179 Podcast Episodes & a Growing Listener Community Reflections on the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, reaching over 1,000 listeners each month, and what these conversations mean moving forward. 🌿 CIRCLE Membership highlights 12 new workshops added in 2025 12 books read together Monthly Roundtable discussions Seasonal masterclasses: Exploring Nature in Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall ✍️ Personal milestones Writing and submitting the first draft of my book, traveling to Acadia National Park and Joshua Tree, and how place continues to shape this work. 🌟 Looking Ahead to 2026 In the final portion of the episode, I share what’s guiding me into the new year: A commitment to documenting 2026 with one video a day Using nature as a healing and reflective tool through seasonal living, cooking from the garden, intentional walks, journaling, and habit-building Expanding CIRCLE Gatherings in the Secret Gardens to deepen community connection Preparing the January edition of the CIRCLE Chronicle, including: Our 2026 book list for Roundtable Discussions 12 new monthly workshop topics Exploring opportunities to connect the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program with higher education pathways Seeking like-minded sponsors for the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast to help reach even more educators while staying deeply aligned with our values 💬 Featured Reflections from the Community: “This podcast reminds me why I became a teacher. It grounds me and gives me permission to slow down.” “This program gave me language for what I already felt in my bones.” “CIRCLE feels like professional development that also feeds my soul.” 🌱 A Note for Potential Sponsors As we head into 2026, Outdoor Classrooms is seeking values-aligned sponsors who believe in nature-based education, community-centered learning, and teaching beyond walls. If that sounds like you—or someone you know—we’d love to connect. 🔗 Learn More & Stay Connected FREE Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Resources & Links: 🎓 a...

In this episode, Victoria guides educators through an inspiring and actionable journey of setting meaningful New Year goals for their Outdoor Classroom using the Four Types of Teaching Gardens: Gardens that FeedGardens that Attract WildlifeGardens for Art and BeautyGardens as Outdoor Learning Stations Building on the reflective questions shared in the latest Seedling News PDF, this episode brings those prompts to life—helping you turn reflection into a clear, garden-centered plan for the year ahead. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: 🌱 Why goal-setting matters How intention, not perfection, shapes a thriving Outdoor Classroom. 🥕 How to develop goals for Gardens that Feed Ideas for edible planting, cultural foods, composting, and hands-on culinary rituals for kids. 🦋 Ways to invite more wildlife into your space Tips for creating habitat, expanding native plantings, and supporting children as citizen scientists. 🎨 How to cultivate beauty, creativity, and art outdoors From color gardens to nature looms, this segment explores aesthetic and sensory-rich garden features that nurture imagination. 🔍 How to strengthen your Outdoor Learning Stations Practical strategies for evolving your mud kitchen, literacy areas, STEM zones, and sensory spaces. 🗂 How to build a simple, seasonal action plan Victoria walks you through choosing ONE goal for each garden type—and spreading those steps across winter and spring. Reflection Questions Featured: What do you want your outdoor classroom to become this year?Which plants, wildlife, art elements, or learning stations most engaged children last season?What do you want children to feel, experience, and discover in each garden area?What support or structure will help you bring your goals to life? Resources Mentioned: Seedling News Reflective PDF – Use it alongside this episode to map out your year The Four Types of Teaching Gardens Framework: Learn more in our Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program CIRCLE Membership Community – For educators ready to grow deeper and connect with others on the same journey Join the Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 a href="https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/circle-membership/"

Winter is often seen as a season to endure—but what if it’s actually a season that gives? In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, Victoria Hackett explores how winter can support children’s development, emotional regulation, and creativity, while also offering adults a chance to slow down, recalibrate, and reconnect with the natural rhythms of the world.  We’ll talk about: The state of childhood today and how screens and busy schedules have disconnected children from the seasons. What nature teaches us about winter and the importance of slowing down. How embracing winter benefits children’s resilience, creativity, and emotional well-being. Why adults benefit from leaning into the season too—and how modeling curiosity matters. A simple winter philosophy for educators and parents: dress well, notice more, slow down, and follow the children. If you’re ready to move beyond winter survival and embrace it as a partner in learning, this episode is for you. 🎓 Go Deeper with the Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass If this episode inspires you, you can explore winter more intentionally through our Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass, opening January 2. The first LIVE session is January 8 from 7:00–8:00 pm EST. This four-week course is part of our Seasonal Masterclass Bundle—buy one and get all four seasonal courses—or as part of the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program. Resources & Links: Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Outdoor Classrooms Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Key Takeaways: Winter is not a dead season—it’s regenerative and full of learning opportunities. Children need stillness, sensory experiences, and seasonal rhythms for healthy development. Adults modeling curiosity and presence outdoors helps children thrive. Slowing down, noticing, and following the children is the most powerful winter philosophy. Listener Challenge: This week, step outside with your children (or your students) and pause for five minutes. Notice one small change in the landscape, one sound, or one texture that tells the story of winter. Share your observations in the comments or on social media with #OutdoorClassroomsPodcast. Mentioned in this episode: Ready to take your outdoor teaching to the next level? Join us in the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp! Learn more here: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/outdoor-teaching-bootcamp-landing/

In this episode, Becca from Good Natured Learning shares how her work has expanded from Colorado to Kenya, piloting Outdoor Learning Collaborations in two schools within Nairobi’s informal settlements. She breaks down the Spaces–Systems–Skills model, the power of co-creation with teachers and communities, and the vision to bring this work to 12+ Kenyan schools in 2026. 🎬 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why Good Natured Learning began and how it’s evolved across continents What nature-based learning looks like in Colorado vs. Kenya How Outdoor Learning Collaborations bring nature access to schools with little green space The impact of rooftop “living classrooms” in Kibera and Mathare How co-creation with teachers strengthens ownership and sustainability The vision for expanding to 12+ schools in 2026—and who’s needed to make it possible Simple ways educators can bring nature into learning anywhere 👤 Meet Becca Becca is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Good Natured Learning. A nature-based educator for over two decades, she has worked across the U.S. and Kenya to integrate outdoor learning, redesign school systems, and co-create inclusive, nature-connected learning environments. With both Stanford training and years of wilderness experience, she’s committed to making nature-based learning accessible, meaningful, and transformative for all schools. Contact Becca: EMAIL: [email protected] Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: [email protected] Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Ready to take your outdoor teaching to the next level? Join us in the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp! Learn more here: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/outdoor-teaching-bootcamp-landing/

In this episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Tour and Talk, we embark on an inspiring journey with Martha Burke, the visionary Founding Director of Heartwood Nature School in West Newbury. Nestled on an 18-acre Christmas tree farm, surrounded by the serene expanses of Fish and Game land, Heartwood is a testament to Martha's passion for outdoor education. Episode Highlights: Heartwood's Humble Beginnings: Discover how Martha transformed her backyard woods into a nurturing educational environment with just a bell tent and a small group of six children in 2020. Growth and Expansion: Learn about the school's remarkable growth, now featuring two yurts and serving approximately 60 children annually with a dedicated staff of eight. Educational Philosophy: Martha shares her philosophy on the importance of outdoor education and the unique experiences Heartwood offers. Challenges and Triumphs: Hear about the challenges Martha faced in building Heartwood and the triumphs that have made the journey worthwhile. A Day in the Life: Get a glimpse into a typical day at Heartwood, where the love for nature and learning go hand in hand. Future Vision: Martha discusses her future plans for Heartwood and her aspirations for outdoor education. Join us as we explore Martha's dedication to fostering a love for nature in children and creating a vibrant outdoor learning community. Whether you're an educator, parent, or nature enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Meet Martha: Martha is the Founding Director of Heartwood Nature School in West Newbury. Her school operates on an 18-acre Christmas tree farm surrounded by countless acres of Fish and Game land. She started Heartwood in 2020 with a bell tent in her backyard woods and a pod of six beloved children. Today, she has two yurts and serves roughly 60 children a year with her staff of 8. She loves nothing more than time in the woods with kids. FREE Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: a...

In this episode, I explore why gratitude and time outdoors aren’t just “nice practices” — they’re essential. We look at the growing research showing how gratitude reshapes attention, mood, and connection, and how nature calms the nervous system, lowers stress, and restores our ability to focus. When you combine the two, the effects strengthen each other in ways that support real emotional resilience. This is simple, accessible, evidence-backed mental health care you can practice every day. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Why gratitude is more than a positive mindset — it’s a proven mental-health tool • How nature lowers stress and restores clarity, even in short doses • The powerful way these two practices reinforce each other • What researchers are discovering about resilience, mood, and attention • Why this isn’t optional — it’s essential • A personal invitation to join my 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge Key Takeaways • Gratitude helps train your mind away from constant threat and toward what supports you • Nature quickly lowers physiological stress and resets attention • Together, these practices create a feedback loop that strengthens well-being • These are small, doable habits with big impacts • You don’t need hours outside or perfect conditions — consistency is what matters • These practices are being taken seriously by researchers for a reason: they work Join the 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Email Challenge I’ve created a simple, structured 30-day email challenge to help you build this powerful habit into your daily life. It’s grounded in what the research tells us about consistency, reflection, and the amount of contact needed to create real change. 🔗 You can sign up HERE: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/product/30-day-gratitude-in-nature-challenge/ Resources & Links: 🌿 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Ready to take your outdoor teaching to the next level? Join us in the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp! Learn more here: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/outdoor-teaching-bootcamp-landing/

In this episode of The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, we sit down with filmmaker and storyteller Juliet Grable, co-creator of the powerful documentary In Our Nature. Juliet and her creative partner, James Parker, have captured the extraordinary ways people are reconnecting with the natural world—one story at a time. Together, we explore the inspiration behind In Our Nature, how the team chose the stories featured in the film, and the lessons learned along the way. Juliet shares her hopes for how the film will inspire action, connection, and deeper appreciation for the environment. We also dive into their current Seed & Spark fundraising campaign, what it takes to bring independent films like this to life, and how storytelling can be a catalyst for change.  🎬 In This Episode, You'll Learn: 🌿 How Juliet and James developed the concept for In Our Nature 🌳 The process of selecting and capturing authentic nature stories 💡 Lessons learned through the filmmaking journey 🎯 What the filmmakers hope to achieve with the documentary 🌱 Insights into their Seed & Spark campaign — and how you can support it 🎥 A behind-the-scenes look at their previous collaboration If you’re passionate about storytelling, nature, and the ways creativity can inspire environmental awareness, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to tell your own story — in your classroom, community, or backyard. Meet Juliet: Juliet Grable is an independent writer based in Southern Oregon who combines a background in the natural sciences with innate curiosity and a passion for language. She has written for many national and regional publications and media outlets, she has also authored four books for Ecotone Publishing and co-produced two documentary films with Synchronous Pictures. Juliet’s niches include sustainable design, watershed restoration, wildlife conservation, climate change, and rural communities. She is especially interested in stories that explore the nexus of ecosystem health, community resilience, and human flourishing. Meet James: James Parker is a director, producer, and founder of Synchronous Pictures, a boutique production company creating award-winning content that bridges divides and sparks conversation. His work has aired on major networks and screened internationally, earning multiple Emmy nominations, Telly Awards, and a presidential medal for his work capturing Botswana’s HIV/AIDS response. From documentary to commercial, James has filmed human stories across Singapore, Botswana, India, Sri Lanka, the UK, and throughout the US, working with clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to major studios including CBS, ABC, BBC, Amazon Studios, and National Geographic. He is also a seasoned entrepreneur, having led the brand launch for an international smart mobility company - securing press in USA Today, TechCrunch, and Forbes, and earning PR Daily’s Best Product Launch award. James lives with a spirit of adventure and a belief in storytelling’s power to connect, illuminate, and drive meaningful change. 🔗 Learn more and support the film: www.inournaturemovie.com  [email protected] [email protected] https://www.synchronous.tv/ www.julietgrable.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliet-grable-ba484344/ a...

In this episode, we sit down with Ann Ranger, a graduate of the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program, to hear her inspiring story of growth, discovery, and success. Ann shares how the program transformed her teaching practice and helped her land her dream job. She takes us behind the scenes of the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp, the Seasonal Masterclass Bundle, and the Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course, sharing the key lessons and “aha” moments that shaped her journey. Ann also walks us through her capstone project, revealing how it challenged her, stretched her thinking, and solidified her skills as a nature-based educator. Whether you’re curious about teaching outdoors, seeking inspiration, or considering certification yourself, this episode is full of actionable insights and motivation. What you’ll learn in this episode: How the Outdoor Classrooms program supports teachers at every stage of their journey. Key takeaways from the Bootcamp, Seasonal Masterclass Bundle, and Capstone Course. Ann’s personal “aha” moments and lessons learned along the way. How completing the program helped Ann land her dream teaching position. Tune in to discover how the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program can help you grow as an educator and make a lasting impact in your classroom and beyond. FREE Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Ready to take your outdoor teaching to the next level? Join us in the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp! Learn more here: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/outdoor-teaching-bootcamp-landing/

In this inspiring Teacher Spotlight, we chat with Amy Wood, an innovative educator who has transformed her teaching through the Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program. From her first steps in the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp, through the Seasonal Masterclass Bundle, to completing the Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course, Amy shares her journey, challenges, and successes bringing learning outdoors. If you’re curious about how nature-based education can reshape your classroom, this episode is packed with real stories, practical insights, and heartfelt reflections that will motivate you to take your teaching beyond walls. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Amy’s inspiration for joining the Teacher Certification ProgramKey takeaways from the Outdoor Teaching BootcampHow seasonal learning has enhanced her classroom experiencesThe process and impact of her Capstone projectLessons learned, challenges overcome, and successes celebratedTips for other educators considering nature-based learning Resources & Links: 🌿 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Mentioned in this episode: Ready to take your outdoor teaching to the next level? Join us in the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp! Learn more here: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/outdoor-teaching-bootcamp-landing/

In this episode, we explore the art of noticing — the simple yet powerful practice of slowing down, paying attention, and inviting children to truly see the natural world. Discover how intentional noticing can transform outdoor learning, spark curiosity, and nurture empathy and environmental stewardship. You’ll learn what “noticing” really means, why it’s such an essential skill for children, and how to weave it into your outdoor classroom routines. From sensory walks and nature journaling to mindful moments of quiet observation, this episode offers both inspiration and practical tools to help educators cultivate curiosity and connection in nature. 💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What “noticing” means: How it goes beyond simple observation to engage children’s senses, curiosity, and awareness. Why noticing matters: The cognitive, emotional, creative, and environmental benefits of helping children notice the world around them. How to teach noticing: Practical strategies for incorporating noticing into outdoor classrooms — through modeling, sensory invitations, journaling, art, and reflective discussion. How noticing builds connection: How attention, curiosity, and care for nature grow together. 🌿 Key Takeaways Noticing is an act of mindfulness that helps children (and adults!) slow down and connect more deeply with the natural world. It supports learning across disciplines — from science and literacy to creativity and social-emotional growth. When educators model curiosity and wonder, children learn to pay attention to details that spark questions and stories. Simple routines — like a daily “minute of noticing” or reflection circles — can profoundly shape children’s relationship with nature. As Mary Oliver reminds us, “Attention is the beginning of devotion.” 🌎 Practical Ideas to Try “I notice, I wonder, It reminds me of…” — Use this simple prompt to guide observations. Sensory walks: Focus on one sense at a time — listen, touch, look, smell. Nature journals: Encourage sketching, labeling, and writing reflections. Noticing station: Provide magnifying glasses, field guides, and art supplies. Slow walks and sit spots: Build in quiet time for observation and reflection. CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES: The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipOutdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification ProgramSeeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck Mentioned in this episode: Ready to take your outdoor teaching to the next level? Join us in the Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp! Learn more here: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/outdoor-teaching-bootcamp-landing/

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast where we dive into the world of outdoor education and the transformative power of nature-based learning. In this episode, we take you on a tour of Little Free Range Learners Preschool, a unique educational environment where children are encouraged to explore, play, and learn in natural settings. Key Highlights: Vision of Freedom: Discover how "Free Range" goes beyond movement, fostering exploration and growth in young minds. Power of Play: Understand why play is vital for self-regulation and world comprehension in early childhood. Diverse Learning Environments: See how children thrive in various settings, building knowledge and confidence. Social Emotional Growth: Learn about the integration of social emotional learning in daily activities. Outdoor Adventures: Experience the benefits of daily outdoor exploration and physical play. Early Learning Foundations: Explore how literacy and numeracy are naturally integrated into playful learning. Connect with Shannon: Email: [email protected] Instagram: instagram.com/littlefreerangelearners/ Meet Victoria:  Victoria is passionate about outdoor education and personal growth. With years of experience in creating outdoor classrooms, she brings a unique perspective on how nature can inspire transformation and a growth mindset. CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.comEMAIL: [email protected]: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 OUTDOOR CLASSROOM RESOURCES: The Outdoor Classrooms CIRCLE MembershipOutdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification ProgramSeeds of Inspiration for Outdoor Learning Card Deck