Freebies!
Free resources related to nature-based early childhood education
Porch play chat: supporting children to play WITH nature
In this video, Dr. Rachel Larimore discusses the importance of play in learning, and how we have to be more intentional than ever to integrate the outdoors and play-based learning with our children.
“Bad” (Hard?) weather really does exist
In this post from the weekly Samara Early Learning newsletter our Chief Visionary Dr. Rachel Larimore reflects on how bad weather DOES exist and how the phrase “there’s no such thing as bad weather” may be limiting.
Five steps to facilitate more nature-based learning in your early childhood classroom
This recorded edWebinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore, provides five simple steps to intentionally integrate a nature-based approach into teaching practice—no matter your current situation.
Inclusive in what counts as nature
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she discusses all the things that count as nature!
Reflection: The powerful teaching of a deer carcass
In this article, Dr. Rachel Larimore discusses how nature-based approaches sometimes provide opportunities to address deeper life issues such as the concepts of life, death, and care for others.
Welcoming staff to your program
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she gives suggestions for effectively welcoming staff to your program.
Tips for hiring and job search season
In this post Rachel gives tips for hiring and job search season. This information is great for interviewers and interviewees alike!
What does it remind you of?
This simple question also requires higher order thinking to compare, contrast, and connect to children’s prior experience. This also honors their culture and identity in the learning process.
The boring stuff matters: Policies, procedures, and more!
I know, I know—policies and procedures are boring, but they are SO important to operating successful nature-based programs.
Taking a break that meets your needs
However you choose to spend your break, I hope you find restoration and rejuvenation.
Resources for when things are not okay
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she offer advice and resources for having difficult conversations with children.
Nature is everywhere—even in urban areas
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she reflects on how nature is TRULY everywhere, even in urban spaces.
The first rainy day
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she reflects on the first rainy day at a nature-based school. This includes talking with families about inclement weather and ensuring children have the appropriate gear for positive experiences playing outdoors.
The music shuffle
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she discusses different types of nature-based music and gives recommendations for music resources for children and adults alike!
Slowing down to see…
In this post from Rachel's weekly newsletter, she reflects on all the beauty that can be found in nature—you just have to slow down and see it! This post particularly highlights birding wherever in the world your find yourself.
Seeing the whole picture
In this article, Rachel discusses the importance of supporting the whole child and taking a wide enough view to address the root cause of behavior challenges.
How to close the year with intention
The end of the school year is an important time to celebrate the year of learning and adventures the group has had together. How are you marking the end of your time with children? Are you helping to create meaning and memories of the year?
Tips for maximizing outdoor learning through play
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore discusses tips for maximizing outdoor learning through play.
Back-to-school tips for outdoor learning
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore shares some back-to-school tips for outdoor learning, including setting families up for success and structuring the day to support outdoor time.
Outdoor learning & school readiness
In this video, originally recorded for Kaplan Early Learning’s Facebook Live event, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore discusses how outdoor learning supports children’s development and school readiness.