Freebies!
Free resources related to nature-based early childhood education
Rhythms & Rituals: A Conversation with Amy Butler
In this special bonus episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore is joined by Amy Butler, educator and author of "Educating Children Outdoors” as they explore the importance of classroom routines.
"Why do we do THAT?"
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore invites listeners to embrace their inner toddler by asking "Why?!" By examining the intentions behind program structures, physical environments, and teacher-child interactions, nature-based educators can better understand what's working and what’s not.
What bird is THAT?!: Expanding our nature knowledge to support young children
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore points out that expanding our knowledge of the natural world models the curiosity in children that we hope to inspire.
The Outdoor Classrooms podcast: Interview with Dr. Rachel Larimore & Dr. Claire Warden
In this podcast, the host of Outdoor Classrooms speaks with Dr. Rachel A. Larimore & Dr. Claire Warden to explore their groundbreaking perspectives on weaving nature into educational practices to spark curiosity and engagement.
Playful Art: Unexpected Tools Spark Creativity
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore focuses on expanding the boundaries of traditional art materials in nature-based settings.
Philosophy Versus Practice: Finding Balance in the Daily Schedule
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore asks listeners to analyze their notes from the two previous weeks to determine if time spent aligns with their program's goals and philosophy.
Tracking Whole-Group Time in Nature-based Classrooms
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore invites you to observe and record daily time spent in whole-group activities, much like we did last week with time in free play.
Tracking Free Play in Nature-based Education
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore encourages educators to reflect on how much time children are engaged in free play, both inside and outside of the classroom.
High Five Time: Noticing the Successes
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore introduces a Mindful Turtle tradition designed to shift focus from the overwhelming to-do list to celebrations of what has gone well.
Reflecting on Routines for a Calm Nature-based Classroom
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore explores the importance of establishing consistent routines in nature-based early childhood education.
Naturally Teaching Elementary Science podcast: Interview with Dr. Rachel Larimore
In this podcast, the host of Naturally Teaching Elementary Science hosts Dr. Rachel A. Larimore to discuss the NAture-Based Education Rating Scales (NABERS), and the important and varied roles teachers play in implementing and maintaining quality programs.
Mindful Materials: Creating Engaging Outdoor Environments for Young Learners
In this episode of the Mindful Turtle podcast, Dr. Rachel A. Larimore encourages listeners to reflect on whether the interest areas and materials available inside are also present outside.
Porch play chat: The nature continuum
In this video, Dr. Rachel Larimore discusses that nature-based education is a continuum. It is not all or nothing.
It's science too!
Natural history is important science. Natural history is the science children are engaging with every day in nature-based programs!
Nature-Based Emergent Curriculum: The Power of Place for Planning
This recorded edWebinar, presented by Dr. Rachel Larimore,
Experiences rather than activties
An "activity” is a very teacher-led, scripted interaction with a clear structure and intended outcome. Whereas an "experience" is an event or occurrence which leaves an impression on someone.
Child-led play
One goal of nature-based early childhood education is to support children’s holistic development. The way we do this is by emphasizing two key elements of early childhood education: 1) Play-based and 2) Child-led.
We’re not separate
The core teaching of Nature-based early childhood education (NbECE) is that the learning isn’t just IN nature or ABOUT nature, but is a relationship between nature and the child. That’s why we use the phrase “learning WITH nature.”
Planning for Earth Day
Even on special days like Earth Day we want to keep things as play-based and child-led as possible.
Enjoying the easy weather
As the weather gets “easier,” I encourage you to spend even more of your day outdoors. Establishing a clear routine and a rich learning space will make the experience much, much better for everyone!