Overcoming the Challenges of Integrating Nature into the Early Childhood Classroom

Presented by Dr. Rachel A. Larimore, Owner, Samara Early Learning

Sponsored by Kaplan Early Learning Company

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Closed captioning will be added to the recording within 2 weeks of the live presentation.

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It seems everywhere you turn lately there is mention of getting kids outside in nature. This was true before the pandemic, but now even more so. The reality is there are many benefits to nature-based learning for children’s whole development—not just their physical well-being. There are also benefits for teachers! But for many, implementing a nature-based approach is easier said than done. There are many real and perceived challenges when implementing a nature-based early childhood education. Sometimes, for example, there are questions about when is too hot or cold to go outside. Sometimes children don’t arrive with appropriate clothing. And sometimes parents don’t understand why the children are “just playing in the woods.” There are solutions for overcoming these challenges and the effort is well worth it!

This recorded edWebinar will help early childhood educators identify the principles fundamental to a nature-based approach and the benefits of such an approach. Then, using a continuum of nature-based early childhood education as the overarching framework, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore addresses the unique challenges of integrating nature into the preschool classroom. She’ll discuss challenges and possible solutions related to:

• Adhering to licensing regulations while implementing a nature-based approach
• Adjusting program structure to integrate more outdoor time
• Preparing the physical environment (inside and outside)
• Making more intentional connections between outdoor and indoor learning
• Supporting families when integrating more nature-based activities into the curriculum

This recorded edWebinar will be of interest to teachers, librarians, and school and district leaders of the preK through elementary levels.

About the Presenter

Dr. Rachel A. Larimore is an educator, speaker, consultant, and author of three books including Establishing a Nature-Based Preschool and Preschool Beyond Walls: Blending Early Childhood Education and Nature-Based Learning. Her work focuses on the intentional integration of nature into early childhood education for young children’s whole development. She is the chief visionary of Samara Early Learning, a company focused on helping early childhood educators implement high-quality nature-based approaches. Prior to establishing Samara Early Learning, Dr. Larimore founded one of the nation’s earliest nature-based preschools at Chippewa Nature Center in Midland, MI. Dr. Larimore earned her doctoral degree from Michigan State University’s Department of Teacher Education.

Closed captioning will be added to the recording within 2 weeks of the live presentation.

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Kaplan Early Learning Company is a leading international provider of products and services that enhance children’s learning.